What are the nearest attractions to Seattle Great Wheel?

Attractions near Seattle Great Wheel: Seattle Waterfront Seattle Aquarium Pike Place Market

What else should I know about attractions in Seattle?

As well as visiting the Seattle Great Wheel, check out these trip ideas to make the most of your visit: Kid-Friendly Museums in Seattle An Insider's Guide to Seattle's Chinatown Victoria Day Trips From Seattle

Seattle Great Wheel - History, Location & Key Facts 2023

The Basics

Located at 1301 Alaskan Way, at the end of Pier 57 on Seattle’s waterfront, the Seattle Great Wheel boasts 42 climate-controlled gondolas, each of which can carry up to eight passengers; a luxe VIP gondola with red leather seats and a glass floor seats four. During the summer, ride times are between 12 and 20 minutes due to the time needed to load and unload larger crowds; during winter, the ride usually lasts 10 to 15 minutes.

While the Ferris wheel offers wonderful views of Seattle, a Puget Sound sailing excursion provides unique views of the Great Wheel itself.

Things to Know Before You Go

Children 2 years old and younger ride for free but still require a ticket.
The ride is wheelchair-accessible; a lift and ramp allow wheelchairs to roll directly into the gondolas.
The wheel will stop operating if winds reach sustained speeds of 55 mph (88.5 kph) or higher, or if there are lightning strikes within 1 mile (1.6 kilometers).

How to Get There

The Seattle Great Wheel is located at the end of Pier 57 on the waterfront, and within short walking distance from most of the city’s main attractions like Pike Place Market, the Seattle Art Museum, the Seattle Aquarium, and more. From Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, it’s about 25 minutes’ drive. The nearest light-rail station, University Street Station-Bay A, is a few blocks away.

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When to Get There

The Seattle Great Wheel operates year-round. Open hours are Monday through Thursday 11am to 10pm, Friday 11am to 12am, Saturday 10am to 12am, and Sunday 10am to 10pm. In the fall, the wheel lights up on the evening of any University of Washington or Seattle Seahawks home football game; light shows also take place during other special occasions and holidays.

Seattle Great Wheel