Two hundred feet in the air, the city of Chicago spreads like gleaming alabaster in one direction and the white-flecked blue of Lake Michigan in the other. This is exactly what awaits when you step into a gondola on the Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier — an experience that transforms how you see and understand the Windy City.
The best part? Access to the Navy Pier Centennial Wheel in Chicago is included with Chicago C3® tickets, making it an easy addition to your sightseeing itinerary. This guide covers everything you need to know about riding the Centennial Wheel, from what to expect during your journey to insider tips for making the most of your visit.
Chicago's Skyline From a New Perspective
The Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier is one of Chicago's most recognizable landmarks, offering visitors a view of the city from 200 feet above Lake Michigan. This modern Ferris wheel replaced the original Navy Pier Ferris Wheel in 2016 and quickly became a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the Windy City. Whether you're visiting Chicago's Navy Pier for the first time or are a seasoned traveler looking for new ways to experience the city, the Centennial Wheel offers comfort, accessibility, and breathtaking views.
What To Expect When You Ride
Stepping into one of the Centennial Wheel's enclosed gondolas feels like entering your own private viewing pod. Each climate-controlled cabin comfortably seats up to eight people, with bench seating arranged to give everyone a clear view through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The gondolas are spacious enough that you won't feel cramped, even during busy times.
The ride itself lasts approximately 15 minutes, during which you'll complete three full rotations. This gives you plenty of time to take in the panoramic views without feeling rushed. The wheel rotates smoothly and continuously, moving slowly enough that boarding and disembarking are easy for guests of all ages and abilities.
As you ascend, Lake Michigan stretches out before you in shades of blue and green, its waters dotted with sailboats during warmer months. Looking inland, the Chicago skyline rises in an impressive display of architectural achievement. You'll spot famous landmarks like the Willis Tower and John Hancock Center, along with the geometric patterns of the city's street grid spreading toward the horizon. Chicago's Navy Pier Centennial Wheel provides a unique vantage point you can't get from street level.
Best Times to Ride the Centennial Wheel
Timing your ride can significantly enhance your experience on the Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier. Each time of day offers its own unique perspective.
Daytime rides provide the clearest views of the skyline and lakefront. You'll see details you might miss at other times, from the boats on the water to the architectural features of downtown buildings. The natural light also makes for excellent photography opportunities.
Sunset rides are particularly popular. As the sun dips toward the horizon, the sky transforms into shades of orange, pink, and purple, while the city lights begin to twinkle one by one. You'll want to time your arrival about 30 minutes before sunset to ensure you're on the wheel as the magic happens.
Nighttime rides offer a completely different experience. The illuminated skyline creates a glittering backdrop, and the Centennial Wheel itself becomes part of the show with its LED light display. During summer months, you might catch the Navy Pier fireworks display from your gondola, which provides an unparalleled perspective on the colorful explosions overhead.
For lighter crowds, consider visiting on weekday mornings or early afternoons. Summer weekends and holiday periods tend to be the busiest, so arriving early in the day can help you avoid longer waits.
Accessibility and Comfort for All Guests
The Centennial Wheel was designed with accessibility in mind. All gondolas are wheelchair accessible, with smooth boarding platforms that accommodate guests using wheelchairs or mobility devices. The spacious cabins allow wheelchairs to roll in easily, and there's plenty of room for companions to sit comfortably alongside.
The climate-controlled environment means you'll ride in comfort regardless of Chicago's weather. Summer heat, winter chill, and spring rain won't interfere with your experience. The gondolas maintain a pleasant temperature year-round, so you can focus on the views rather than the weather.
Navy Pier itself offers numerous amenities to make your visit comfortable. You'll find rest areas, restaurants, and clean facilities throughout the pier. If you're visiting with young children, stroller parking is available near the Centennial Wheel entrance.
How To Ride With Chicago C3® Tickets
Chicago C3® tickets provide an excellent way to experience the Centennial Wheel alongside other top city attractions. Your C3® ticket includes general admission to the Centennial Wheel, giving you access to the standard gondolas without any additional cost.
To redeem your C3® ticket, present it at the Centennial Wheel ticket booth at Navy Pier. The staff will scan your ticket and direct you to the boarding line. It's that simple.
Pairing your Centennial Wheel visit with other attractions creates a well-rounded Chicago experience. After your ride, you might head to Skydeck Chicago for another sky-high perspective from the Willis Tower, or take the Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour to learn about the city's famous buildings from water level. These attractions complement each other beautifully, giving you multiple ways to appreciate Chicago's architecture and landscape.