Although I've written about the Seattle Great Wheel here on Examiner and for Crosscut, I'd yet to experience it. Making its debut in June 2012, my hubby and I planned to go for a ride for our August anniversary last summer. But between dinner and a movie, which included my new favorite restaurant Altura on Broadway, we couldn't fit it into our evening.
Last week, while in the city on an unusually balmy, sunny winter day, I suggested we take a sunset spin. We picked exactly the right time, with the sun setting in the west over the Olympic Mountains, plus Washington State Ferries and even a US Navy frigate plying the waters below us on Elliott Bay. Seattle sparkled in the winter glow of the setting sun.
There were only a dozen people in line around 5 PM, and it took about 15 minutes for us to be guided and loaded into our gondola. When it's crowded, you'll most likely be accompanied by other people, but we had it all to ourselves. We caught the sun just at the right time, as the Seattle Great Wheel made its three revolutions. Switch seats halfway through so you catch the water and mountain views, along with the city skyline. It's a great ride, and a wonderful addition to Seattle's waterfront.
Seattle Great Wheel | Hours + Ticket Prices
- Monday - Thursday | 11 AM to 10 PM
- Friday - Saturday | 10 AM to Midnight
- Sunday | 10 AM to 10 PM
- Adults (12+) $13
- Seniors (65+) $11
- Child (4-11) $8.50
- Child (0-3) Free
- VIP $50
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