Experiencing the grandeur of Chicago’s skyline from the Navy Pier Centennial Wheel is a must-do for any visitor. With regular ticket prices starting at $21.30, you’ll enjoy a 15-minute ride in heated gondolas, taking in 360-degree panoramic views of the iconic cityscape and Lake Michigan. Suitable for all ages, this popular attraction boasts a stellar 4.4-star customer rating, ensuring a memorable outing. But what else does this Ferris wheel have to offer? Let’s explore further.
Good To Know
- Navy Pier Centennial Wheel tickets start at $21.30 per person, with Fastpass Express tickets offering VIP access and shorter lines.
- Tickets are valid for one ride within 7 days of the chosen date, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The Centennial Wheel features 42 heated gondolas, each accommodating up to 8 people, and offers panoramic views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan.
- The ride is wheelchair accessible, and service animals are permitted, ensuring an inclusive experience for all visitors.
- Customer reviews praise the fast-moving lines, good ride speed, and air-conditioned gondolas, though some note issues with sound quality.
Ticket Options and Pricing
What’re the ticket options and pricing for the Navy Pier Centennial Wheel?
Regular tickets start at $21.30 per person, with a Fastpass Express Ticket offering VIP access to skip both ticket and boarding lines.
Regular tickets start at $21.30 per person, with a Fastpass Express Ticket offering VIP access to skip both ticket and boarding lines.
Tickets are valid for one ride on the wheel within 7 days of the chosen date.
Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and children 2 and under can ride for free.
Looking for more options in Centennial Wheel? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Ride Details and Experiences
The Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier offers a thrilling 15-minute ride with three full revolutions, providing breathtaking 360-degree views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. The nearly 200-foot-tall wheel features 42 gondolas, each accommodating up to 8 people, with LED lighting, padded seats, TV screens, speakers, and panoramic windows. Heated gondolas are available year-round, ensuring a comfortable experience.
| Feature | Details |
| — | — |
| Ride Duration | 15 minutes with 3 full revolutions |
| Wheel Height | Nearly 200 feet |
| Gondolas | 42 (8 people each) |
| Amenities | LED lighting, padded seats, TV screens, speakers, panoramic windows |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible, no pets/smoking/large bags |
Visitors can enjoy the Navy Pier Summer Fireworks every Wednesday and Saturday from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Accessibility and Amenities
The Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier is wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors of all abilities to enjoy the panoramic views.
Service animals are permitted as defined by the ADA, but no other pets are allowed. Visitors can’t bring large bags onto the ride. Smoking is prohibited throughout the attraction.
The experience offers heated gondolas year-round, ensuring comfort regardless of weather conditions.
With no frills or unnecessary details, the Centennial Wheel’s accessibility and amenities cater to a wide range of guests, prioritizing comfort, safety, and inclusivity for all who wish to experience the iconic Chicago landmark.
Visitor Information
How can visitors make the most of their Centennial Wheel experience?
The Fastpass Express option is a great choice for quicker access, allowing guests to skip the regular ticket and boarding lines.
The flexible date ticket is also handy, as it lets visitors plan around the weather conditions.
Those visiting during the summer shouldn’t miss the Navy Pier Summer Fireworks, which take place every Wednesday and Saturday from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
With these tips, travelers can maximize their time and enjoy the Centennial Wheel’s stunning 360-degree views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback and Ratings
According to customer reviews, the Centennial Wheel has an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 1,756 reviews. Reviewers praised the ride’s value, with a 4.1/5 rating for value for money. Customers highlighted the fast-moving lines, good ride speed, and air-conditioned gondolas as highlights. However, some noted issues with sound quality due to air blowing inside the pods.
| Metric | Rating |
| — | — |
| Overall | 4.4/5 |
| Value for Money | 4.1/5 |
| Ride Experience | 4.6/5 |
| Amenities | 4.2/5 |
Seasonal Highlights
While the Centennial Wheel offers impressive views year-round, visitors can particularly enjoy seasonal highlights.
During the summer, the Wheel operates until late evening, allowing guests to experience the panoramic vistas at dusk and under the night sky. On Wednesday and Saturday evenings from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Wheel provides a front-row seat to Navy Pier’s renowned summer fireworks displays.
In the winter, the Wheel’s heated, climate-controlled gondolas keep passengers cozy as they take in the sights of Chicago’s sparkling skyline and frozen lakefront.
The Wheel’s seasonal programming enhances the overall Centennial experience.
Skipping the Lines With Fastpass Express
For those looking to maximize their time at Navy Pier, the Fastpass Express ticket offers a convenient way to skip the queues. This VIP access pass allows visitors to bypass both the ticket and boarding lines, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience.
Some key benefits of the Fastpass Express ticket include:
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Quicker access to the Centennial Wheel
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Avoiding lengthy wait times
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More time to explore the rest of Navy Pier’s attractions
With the Fastpass Express ticket, guests can enjoy the full 15-minute ride with 3 full revolutions of the nearly 200-foot-tall Wheel without the hassle of long lines.
Planning Around Weather Conditions
The flexible date ticket for the Navy Pier Centennial Wheel allows visitors to plan their experience around ideal weather conditions.
The ticket is valid for one ride within 7 days of the chosen date, so guests can monitor the forecast and choose the best time to visit. This is especially useful during Chicago’s unpredictable weather.
If rain or wind is expected on the initially selected day, the ticket can be used another time. This flexibility helps ensure an enjoyable ride with clear views from the nearly 200-foot-tall Centennial Wheel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Way to Purchase Tickets On-Site?
Yes, visitors can purchase tickets on-site at the Centennial Wheel. They offer regular tickets and Fastpass Express tickets for VIP access, which allow guests to skip the lines. On-site ticket purchases are subject to availability.
Can I Extend the Duration of My Ticket?
Visitors can’t extend the duration of their Navy Pier Centennial Wheel ticket. The ticket is valid for one ride within 7 days of the chosen date, and there’s no option to add more time or rides.
Do I Need to Book Tickets in Advance?
While advance booking isn’t required, it’s recommended to secure tickets, especially during peak seasons and weekends. This ensures availability and can help avoid long queues upon arrival.
Are There Any Group Discounts Available?
Yes, group discounts are available for the Centennial Wheel tickets. Groups of 10 or more can receive a discounted rate per person, though the exact discount amount may vary. It’s best to check the website or contact the operator for the current group pricing.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks. According to the experience details, only service animals are permitted, and large bags are not allowed on the Centennial Wheel.
The Sum Up
The Navy Pier Centennial Wheel offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan. With heated gondolas, a 15-minute ride, and free entry for children under 2, it’s a memorable experience for all ages. The attraction’s 4.4-star customer rating and Fastpass Express option make it a convenient and enjoyable outing, though visitors should plan around weather conditions for the best experience.
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