What is the difference between the Old and New Navy Pier Ferris wheel?

When it comes to visiting the Navy Pier in Chicago, one of the most iconic sights to behold is the ferris wheel. This wheel has been a part of the skyline for decades, and recently, the Navy Pier unveiled a brand new version of the ferris wheel. What is the difference between the old and new Navy Pier ferris wheel?

The most obvious difference between the old and new version of the ferris wheel is its size. The old version was 150 feet tall, while the new one is 196 feet tall, making it the largest ferris wheel in the world. The new wheel is also faster, with a speed of 7 rotations per minute, while the old one only had a speed of 4 rotations per minute. The new wheel also has a much larger capacity, with 42 air-conditioned gondolas able to hold 8 passengers each, compared to the 30 gondolas of the old wheel that only held 6 passengers each.

The new wheel also features a significantly improved lighting system, with over 20,000 LED lights that can create a variety of color patterns. These lights are also much more energy efficient than the old lighting, and they are capable of creating a much wider range of lighting effects. The old wheel also did not have any audio capabilities, while the new wheel has both speakers and audio jack ports in every gondola.

In terms of price, the new wheel is more expensive, with tickets costing $15 for adults and $8 for children for a single ride. The old wheel only cost $5 per ride for adults and $3 for children. However, for an enhanced experience, passengers can now purchase the Navy Pier Flyover, which includes two spins around the wheel with a narrated tour and access to the VIP lounge. This experience costs $39 for adults and $25 for children.

Overall, the new Navy Pier Ferris wheel is bigger, faster, and has a greater capacity than the old wheel. It also features a much improved lighting system and audio capabilities, as well as the option for an enhanced experience with the VIP tour. While the new wheel is more expensive than the old one, it is still a great way to experience the Navy Pier skyline.

The Differences between the Old and New Navy Pier Ferris Wheel

Navy Pier in Chicago is home to the iconic Ferris wheel that has been whirring since 1995. The classic model is being replaced by a new, modern version with plenty of features and upgrades. So what is the difference between the old and new Navy Pier Ferris wheel?

The old Navy Pier Ferris wheel was built in 1995 and stands 150 feet tall. It had 40 gondolas, each accommodating up to six passengers. The ride lasted for 11 minutes and was powered by an electric motor. It was also the tallest Ferris wheel in the world when it opened.

The new Navy Pier Ferris wheel is 200 feet tall and features 42 gondolas, each accommodating up to eight passengers. It takes 17 minutes per ride and is powered by a hydraulic motor. The new Ferris wheel also features larger gondolas and a new LED lighting system that changes colors to create a more immersive experience.

The new Ferris wheel is also equipped with modern safety features that weren’t available on the old model. These include individual safety harnesses, sensors that detect if a gondola is out of balance, and an air-cooling system that keeps gondolas at a comfortable temperature.

The price for the new Ferris wheel is $9.50 for adults and $7.50 for children under age 12. This is slightly higher than the old model, which cost $7.50 for adults and $6.50 for children.

The old and new Navy Pier Ferris wheels are both iconic landmarks in Chicago and will remain so for years to come. The new model has more features and modern safety features, but both offer thrilling rides with spectacular views of the city.

Exploring the Upgrades of the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel

The Navy Pier Ferris wheel has been a mainstay of Chicago’s skyline for over a century. But, in 2016, the iconic attraction underwent a major upgrade. The new and improved Ferris wheel was unveiled in 2017 and is now known as the Centennial Wheel.

The Centennial Wheel is the city’s first and only observation wheel, offering panoramic views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. With its sleek new design, the wheel is now equipped with 40 climate-controlled gondolas, able to seat 8 passengers each. The wheel also boasts a modern LED lighting system, making it an iconic centerpiece to the Chicago skyline.

The Centennial Wheel has been designed to be fully functional and efficient. The new wheel is powered by two independent motors, each delivering approximately 1,000 horsepower. The motor-drive system is designed to provide smooth rides and increase the wheel’s overall efficiency. Additionally, the wheel is equipped with a self-parking system, allowing the wheel to stop and turn on its own.

The wheel has also been designed with the rider in mind. Each of the 40 gondolas offers riders a comfortable experience, complete with air-conditioning and audio-visual technology. The upgraded wheel is now also equipped with 3D cameras, allowing riders to capture and share their rides.

The Centennial Wheel offers riders a unique and unforgettable experience. Prices for tickets start at $13 for adults and $9 for children. And, with its unique design and modern technology, the wheel is sure to be a Chicago favorite for years to come.