The D.C.-area’s first permanent Ferris wheel is coming to Maryland’s National Harbor.
The 175-foot observation wheel, expected to open in May of this year, will feature 42 “climate-controlled gondolas” which seat eight each and 1.6 million LED lights. Plans for the Capital Wheel were first reported by the Post.
While aboard the wheel, developer Peterson Companies says the Washington Monument (555 feet) and U.S. Capitol (289 feet) will be visible, as will parts of Alexandria and Prince George’s County. The estimated price for a ride is $15, with officials estimating between 600,000 to 800,000 visitors a year.
In the U.S., Seattle is already home to a 175-foot giant, waterfront Ferris wheel. A press release for the Capital Wheel mentions the success of the London Eye, although that wheel is 443-feet tall and centrally located.
Milt Peterson, head of the development company behind National Harbor, said in a release the wheel “will be a new icon for the National Capital region, a family-friendly yet sophisticated magnet for area residents, U.S. and global tourists alike.”
National Harbor is located about 11 miles from downtown D.C., but is not accessible by Metrorail. There is, however, a dedicated bus line that departs from the Branch Avenue station. There’s also a riverboat option.