At Navy Pier, the Centennial Wheel lifts you above Chicago’s lakefront in enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas. The ride gives you 360-degree views of the skyline, Lake Michigan and the pier, with windows that make it easy to take photos in any weather. It is a relaxed way to see the city from above, and the cabins can make the height easier to manage if you are uneasy with open-air rides. Go near sunset for changing light over the lake and city.
A ride above Navy Pier
The Centennial Wheel stands at Navy Pier, where its enclosed gondolas carry riders above the pier and Chicago’s lakefront. From the cabin, you can look across Lake Michigan and toward the city skyline. The ride turns slowly enough to take in the view and get photos from different angles.
The gondolas are climate-controlled, so the ride is enclosed rather than open to the weather. That can also make it a more comfortable choice for anyone in your group who is nervous about heights. Private gondola rides are available, though the details of those options are not provided here.
The wheel’s Chicago connection
The present wheel opened at Navy Pier in 1995 and was enlarged in 2016. It was modeled after the Ferris wheel built for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. That earlier wheel connected the city to the invention that later became a familiar feature at amusement parks and boardwalks.
The Centennial Wheel reaches about 200 feet above the ground. Its position on the pier gives you a view of both the city and the lake, with Navy Pier visible below.
Planning your visit
Navy Pier has other attractions nearby, so you can combine a ride with time elsewhere on the pier. Tickets can be bought online, which may help you spend less time at the ticket line during busy periods. Early visits and weekdays can also mean fewer people waiting.
The ride is brief, so plan it as one stop in a longer visit to Navy Pier. Paid parking is available around the pier. If you are comparing ways to visit several nearby attractions, check whether a multi-attraction pass fits your itinerary before purchasing separate tickets.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is the Centennial Wheel?
It is at Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago.
What can you see from the Centennial Wheel?
The enclosed gondolas give you 360-degree views of Chicago’s skyline, Lake Michigan and Navy Pier.
How long does a ride take?
One ride takes about 15 minutes.
When is a good time to ride?
Go just before sunset for views of the city and lake in changing light.
