NAVY PIER — Here's what it's like to ride Navy Pier's new-and-improved Ferris wheel.
The state's biggest tourist attraction will debut the new wheel Friday as part of its year-long centennial celebration. Rising 200 feet, the new wheel is slightly taller than its predecessor and features comfy, climate-controlled gondolas.
The rides last about 10 minutes and consist of several loops offering great views of the city skyline. Admission for adults is $15, but the pier will also host free rides from 10 a.m. to noon June 14, June 28, Aug. 9 and Aug. 23.
Inspired by the first-ever Ferris wheel that debuted at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, Navy Pier's original Ferris wheel opened in 1995 and was perhaps the pier's most recognizable attraction before shutting down last fall. More than 63,000 people rode the old Ferris wheel every month, Navy Pier said.
The new wheel is also part of Navy Pier's $300 million effort to reinvent itself as a more upscale destination that will attract more visitors as it reaches the 100th anniversary. Other centennial plans include new restaurants, a hotel and a new stage for the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. City officials have also loosened the pier's rules on drinking. The new wheel itself cost $26.5 million.
Watch the video above for a virtual ride.
RELATED STORIES:
Navy Pier's New Ferris Wheel To Open Memorial Day Weekend
New Stage at Chicago Shakespeare Theater the Latest Change at Navy Pier
Navy Pier to Get New Ferris Wheel That's 50 Feet Taller Than Current One
Giordano's to Fill Navy Pier with Stuffed Pizza, Outdoor Patio
Navy Pier Wants to Relax Rules on Drinking in Hopes of Drawing More Adults
Original Rainbow Cone Coming To Navy Pier