Centennial Wheel
Soar nearly 200 feet for breathtaking 360-degree views of Chicago's skyline and Lake Michigan from the iconic Centennial Wheel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour views
Centennial Wheel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Soar nearly 200 feet for breathtaking 360-degree views of Chicago's skyline and Lake Michigan from the iconic Centennial Wheel.
"Stunning views of the Chicago skyline and lake are spectacular; worth doing at least once!"
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing Centennial Wheel tickets online in advance. Look for deals!
✨ VIP Gondola Upgrade
Splurge on the VIP gondola for plush seats and a glass floor for an unforgettable experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City & Lake Views
Top of the wheel
Soar nearly 200 feet for breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan.
Climate-Controlled Gondolas
Inside the gondolas
Enjoy a comfortable 15-minute ride in enclosed, air-conditioned gondolas, perfect for any season.
VIP Gondola Experience
VIP gondola
Elevate your ride with plush seating, a glass floor, and an exclusive experience for up to 4 guests.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Ticket Tips & VIP Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing Centennial Wheel tickets online in advance. Look for deals!
✨ VIP Gondola Upgrade
Splurge on the VIP gondola for plush seats and a glass floor for an unforgettable experience.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The 360-degree views are perfect for photos. Don't forget your phone or camera!
🌬️ Dress for the Weather
While gondolas are enclosed, the pier can be windy. Dress in layers, especially during cooler months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing Centennial Wheel tickets online in advance. Look for deals!
✨ VIP Gondola Upgrade
Splurge on the VIP gondola for plush seats and a glass floor for an unforgettable experience.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The 360-degree views are perfect for photos. Don't forget your phone or camera!
🌬️ Dress for the Weather
While gondolas are enclosed, the pier can be windy. Dress in layers, especially during cooler months.
⏳ Ride Duration
Enjoy about 15 minutes and three rotations for stunning panoramic views of Chicago.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Centennial Wheel for its spectacular 360-degree views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan, calling the experience breathtaking and a must-do. The climate-controlled gondolas and smooth ride are highlighted as comfortable amenities, with many recommending the VIP option for an enhanced experience. While some find the price a bit high for a 15-minute ride, the overall consensus is that the views and unique perspective make it well worth it.
"We bought the Go City attraction package and decided to use one of those options at the Centennial Wheel. It also includes all other attractions that are meant for children located beside the wheel.
There are great views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. Stunning views.
The gondolas are climate controlled."
Wai01
"It's a bit pricey for a 15 minute ride, but the views of the Chicago skyline and lake are spectacular. It was easy to purchase our tickets with a credit card on the machine. The people working were efficient and polite. The seats on the ride are pretty comfy. We recommend doing this at least once for the views !"
Rebekah Kohli
"The Ferris wheel was fabulous, featuring comfortably air-conditioned gondolas—perfect after a morning spent sightseeing around the city. It offered a relaxing break along with some truly spectacular views. We were even able to get a private gondola for just the two of us, which made the experience even more special and helped make it a perfect day."
E Stover
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Navy Pier is accessible by car, public transit, and water taxi. Several bus routes stop directly at the pier, and the Water Taxi offers scenic rides from Michigan Avenue. Parking is available at Navy Pier garages, but can be pricey.
Yes, multiple CTA bus routes serve Navy Pier, including the #29 State Street, #65 Grand, and #66 Chicago. The nearest 'L' train stations are a walk or short bus ride away.
Navy Pier has two garages: the East Garage and the West Garage. Rates vary by time and day, and it's recommended to check the Navy Pier website for current pricing.
Absolutely! The Chicago Water Taxi offers service to Navy Pier from various points along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, providing a unique and scenic approach.
While Navy Pier is a popular tourist destination, many visitors find the Centennial Wheel offers genuinely spectacular views and a worthwhile experience, especially when combined with other attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Standard ticket prices are around $24.50 per person for a 15-minute ride. Prices can vary, and discounts may be available through online bookings or attraction packages.
You can purchase Centennial Wheel tickets online through the official Navy Pier website or at the ticket booths on-site. Booking online can sometimes offer a Centennial Wheel discount.
Yes, look for Centennial Wheel discount offers online, through attraction passes like Go City, or sometimes via Groupon. Check the official website for current promotions.
The Centennial Wheel stands nearly 200 feet tall, offering impressive panoramic views of the city and lake.
Yes, it's possible to arrange for a private gondola, especially if you book the VIP experience. This offers a more intimate and special ride.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
A ride on the Centennial Wheel typically lasts about 15 minutes and includes approximately three rotations, giving you ample time to enjoy the views.
Yes, all 42 gondolas on the Centennial Wheel are enclosed and climate-controlled, making the ride comfortable year-round.
The Centennial Wheel hours generally align with Navy Pier's operating hours, which vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Navy Pier website for the most up-to-date schedule.
You'll get stunning 360-degree views of the Chicago skyline, Lake Michigan, and the surrounding area. It's a fantastic perspective of the city. 
Yes, the Centennial Wheel is a family-friendly attraction. Children often enjoy the ride and the spectacular views.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset offers dramatic lighting as the city lights begin to twinkle. Clear, sunny days provide sharp, vibrant shots of the skyline and lake.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, be mindful of other passengers and avoid using flash photography that might disturb them.
The 360-degree rotation allows for diverse shots. Try capturing wide panoramas of the skyline, close-ups of iconic buildings, or sweeping views of Lake Michigan.
Yes, the Centennial Wheel is an iconic landmark. You can capture great shots from various points on Navy Pier, especially at night when it's illuminated.
The VIP gondola with its glass floor offers a unique perspective for photos looking straight down at Navy Pier.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the wheel, Navy Pier offers the Chicago Children's Museum and other kid-oriented activities, making it a great destination for a family day out. Consider purchasing attraction packages that might include the wheel and other family fun. 💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Combine your ride with a stroll along Navy Pier or a dinner with a view for a complete romantic outing.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for sunset for dramatic lighting or a clear day for crisp, detailed images. The VIP gondola's glass floor also provides unique downward-facing shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Centennial Wheel Experience
+1For those seeking an elevated experience, the Centennial Wheel VIP gondola is available. This premium option features plush seating and a glass floor, offering a unique perspective looking directly down at Navy Pier and the water below. It's an ideal choice for couples or small groups looking for a more intimate and memorable ride.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local looking for a new perspective, the Centennial Wheel provides a memorable Chicago experience. It's a fantastic way to appreciate the city's architectural marvels and natural beauty from a bird's-eye view. Consider visiting during sunset for a truly magical experience as the city lights begin to sparkle.
Navigating Navy Pier and Beyond
While some may view Navy Pier as a 'tourist trap,' others find its lively atmosphere and lakefront location to be a significant draw, especially during summer events like fireworks displays and live music in the beer garden. Getting to Navy Pier is convenient via public transportation, with several bus routes stopping directly at the pier. Water taxis also provide a scenic route from various points along the river and lakefront.
For those driving, parking is available in the pier's garages, though it can be costly. Planning your visit, especially regarding Centennial Wheel hours and ticket purchases, can enhance your overall experience. When planning your visit, remember that while the gondolas are climate-controlled, the pier itself can be windy. Dressing in layers is advisable, particularly during cooler months.
The Centennial Wheel is a highlight, but exploring the rest of Navy Pier offers a fuller picture of this iconic Chicago destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit