The Orlando Eye

The Orlando Eye is one of the premier attractions in the heart of Orlando, Florida. Standing tall at 400 feet, it’s one of the tallest observation wheels on the East Coast. Visitors can enjoy a smooth 23-minute rotation with breathtaking 360-degree views of the city’s theme parks, Cape Canaveral, and beyond. With 30 air-conditioned capsules, guests can marvel at the sights in comfort. But there’s more to this impressive landmark than meets the eye.

Overview of The Orlando Eye

The Orlando Eye is one of the tallest observation wheels on the East Coast, standing at a remarkable 400 feet (122 meters).

Featuring 30 air-conditioned capsules, each accommodating up to 15 people, the attraction offers a 23-minute rotation for 360-degree views of Orlando, including theme parks and Cape Canaveral on clear days.

Each capsule is equipped with an iPad providing information about local attractions, enhancing the visitor experience.

Admission and Upgrades

Admission to the Orlando Eye includes all fees and taxes.

Visitors have the option to upgrade to a 2- or 3-attraction pass, allowing access to SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and/or Madame Tussauds Orlando. Prices for the Orlando Eye start from $31.94 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Visitors can upgrade to 2- or 3-attraction passes, accessing SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and/or Madame Tussauds Orlando. Prices start from $31.94 per person with free cancellation.

Tickets can be purchased on-site or online, providing flexibility for planning. The 2- and 3-attraction passes offer a more comprehensive experience, catering to those interested in exploring multiple attractions in the area.

These upgrades provide additional value and convenience for visitors.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The meeting point for the Orlando Eye is located at 8449 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, USA. The activity ends back at the same location.

The observation wheel is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. Infants must sit on laps during the 23-minute rotation.

The Orlando Eye offers 360-degree views of Orlando, including theme parks and Cape Canaveral on clear days. Visitors can enjoy the experience at various times of the day, from daytime views to sunsets and evening fireworks.

Visitor Experience and Reviews

How have visitors experienced the Orlando Eye? Reviews offer a mixed picture.

On the positive side, many highlight the amazing 360-degree views, especially during sunsets. However, some note long wait times, confusion over digital photo packages, and overcrowding in the capsules.

Disappointment is also expressed, with the experience not meeting expectations for some. Visiting the attraction at different times of day can provide varied experiences, from daytime views to evening fireworks.

Additional Information

Operated by Merlin Entertainments Orlando, the Orlando Eye offers a range of additional features beyond the core observation wheel experience. Included in the ticket price are digital photos, allowing visitors to capture their experience.

For those seeking more, additional photos are available for purchase. To make the most of their visit, the attraction encourages guests to plan their trip around different times of the day, as the views can vary significantly from daytime to sunset and evening fireworks.

With these options, the Orlando Eye provides a customizable experience tailored to each visitor’s preferences.

History and Development

Conceived in the early 2000s, the Orlando Eye was developed by Merlin Entertainments as part of their broader expansion into the Orlando tourism market.

The project’s key milestones include:

1. Land acquisition in 2013 for the 20-acre ICON Park complex, where the observation wheel would be the centerpiece.

2. Groundbreaking in 2013 and construction over the next two years, with the Eye opening to the public in May 2015.

3. Integration with other Merlin attractions like SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and Madame Tussauds Orlando, creating a multi-experience destination.

4. Ongoing investments in digital enhancements and optimization of the visitor experience.

Comparison to Other Observation Wheels

While the Orlando Eye stands as one of the tallest observation wheels on the East Coast, it compares quite differently to other iconic observation wheels around the world. Consider the following comparisons:

| Metric | Orlando Eye | London Eye | Singapore Flyer |

| — | — | — | — |

| Height | 400 feet | 443 feet | 541 feet |

| Capacity | 15 passengers per capsule | 25 passengers per capsule | 28 passengers per capsule |

| Rotation Time | 23 minutes | 30 minutes | 30 minutes |

Despite its impressive stature, the Orlando Eye offers a more compact and intimate experience compared to its international counterparts. However, its convenient location and stunning views of the Orlando skyline continue to attract visitors seeking a unique perspective of the city.

The Sum Up

The Orlando Eye offers visitors a unique and memorable experience. With its impressive height, air-conditioned capsules, and digital features, the observation wheel provides breathtaking views of Orlando’s attractions. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, the Orlando Eye is a must-visit destination that showcases the city in a whole new light. Its impressive stature and advanced technology make it a standout attraction on the East Coast.