The Seattle Great Wheel: A Waterfront Icon
Experience breathtaking views of Seattle's skyline and Puget Sound from the iconic Seattle Great Wheel on Pier 57.
The Seattle Great Wheel, located on Pier 57, is a prominent Ferris wheel offering stunning views of the Seattle skyline and Elliott Bay. Standing 175 feet tall, it features 42 climate-controlled gondolas, providing a comfortable and scenic experience year-round [4, 8].
A brief summary to The Seattle Great Wheel
- 1301 Alaskan Wy, Seattle, Central Business District, Washington, 98101, US
- +1206-623-8607
- Visit website
- Monday 11 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-10 pm
- Thursday 11 am-10 pm
- Friday 10 am-11 pm
- Saturday 10 am-11 pm
- Sunday 10 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Purchase tickets online to avoid waiting in line, especially during peak season [6].
- Check the Seattle Great Wheel's schedule for special light shows, which often occur on weekends and holidays [2, 3, 6].
- Consider the VIP experience for a luxurious ride with leather seats, a glass floor, and champagne [2, 3, 6].
- Visit during sunset for stunning views of the city and the Olympic Mountains [16].
Getting There
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Walking
From the Seattle Aquarium, walk north along the waterfront on Alaskan Way for approximately 5 minutes. The Seattle Great Wheel will be on your left at Pier 57 [4, 11]. This is a flat, easy walk with views of the waterfront. No costs are associated with this approach.
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Public Transport
From Westlake Station, a major transit hub, take bus route 17, 4, 40, 550, or 56 towards the waterfront [10, 14]. Get off at the 3rd Ave & Union St stop, which is a short walk to Pier 57. Walk west towards the waterfront and you'll see the Great Wheel [10, 14]. A single adult fare on King County Metro is $3 [12].
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From downtown Seattle, a taxi or ride-share to the Seattle Great Wheel at Pier 57 typically costs between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and surge pricing [12, 17]. The ride is short, usually 5-10 minutes. Ask your driver to drop you off at the entrance to Pier 57 on Alaskan Way.
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Driving
If driving, use a map app to navigate to Pier 57, located at 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101 [4]. Several parking garages and lots are available near the waterfront [5]. Rates range from $4 to $12 per hour, or higher [5]. The Waterfront Place Garage is one option [13]. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak tourist season and events [5].
Discover more about The Seattle Great Wheel
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