Great Big Wheel

REVIEWS

T Trypp Adams

Forced to ride with strangers who started arguing mid ride... very awkward! View is OK, you can see Minneapolis and St Paul but the experience is sub par.

Aug 28, 2024

K Kent Patrick Brink

I’d give this a 0 starts if it would let me. I paid $28 for 4 tickets. I felt bad for the 2 strangers forced into the car with us as my group continued our conversation. But the worse part was the ride itself. It never did a full revolution around. It went in intervals of about 1/4 of the way around for a few seconds at a time for 2 revolutions around. I thought they were still loading and unloading passengers. Then they stopped and told us the ride was over. After informing the guy the ride never started, he got an attitude and told us it was over.

Aug 27, 2024

A Andy S

Wonderful tall ferris wheel. Nice and slow. Great views from the top. Can't fall out.

Aug 30, 2024

J J. B.

If you enjoy the awkwardness of being forced against your wishes to ride with strangers, then this is the ride for you. I was fortunate enough to have the experience enhanced by having my eardrums shattered by the non-stop shrill shrieks of a child trying to get the attention of her mother who talked on her cell phone for the entire duration of the ride. The brief, 1 full rotation, of the ride couldn’t have come to an end soon enough. NEVER again...

Aug 31, 2023

S Stacey Anderson

Just like everyone else it seems we were forced to get on with complete strangers and also told pretty rudely by I’m guess some guy with an English accent that “ we paid for the seat not the gondola” As we got on I heard him discussing how it seemed like a victory by being rude and telling us that. You must feel like a real man by being a jerk to customers. Oddly there were a lot of open gondolas with no one in it. Whatever the views were nice but not worth the awkwardness of sitting with strangers face to face just freaking weird!! Save your money and do something else at the fair you’ll thank me!!! Oh and to the guy with the English accent have the stay in Minnesota that you deserve. Being nice can go a long way but you seemed to feel better about being a jerk. Maybe you haven’t heard of Minnesota Nice so look it up it may come in handy while working the Minnesota State Fair..

Sep 04, 2023

Great Big Wheel Intro

Nestled in the heart of Falcon Heights, MN, the Great Big Wheel stands as a iconic landmark that offers visitors an unforgettable experience overlooking the vibrant cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. This unique tourist attraction combines thrill and scenery, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and out-of-town guests. Whether you're visiting with family, friends, or a romantic partner, the Great Big Wheel promises an exciting journey above the Twin Cities.

Opened in 2013, the Great Big Wheel is one of the few remaining ferris wheels in the United States that offers a completely enclosed ride experience. With its 40-foot diameter and unique design, this attraction provides a bird's-eye view of the surrounding area while ensuring riders are protected from the elements. The wheel makes slow rotations, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the breathtaking views of the Minneapolis Riverfront, downtown St. Paul, and the iconic skyline.

One of the standout features of the Great Big Wheel is its unique seating arrangement. Unlike traditional ferris wheels, this attraction offers 16 enclosed passenger compartments that can seat up to four people each. These compartments are equipped with heating and air conditioning, making the ride comfortable year-round. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of the ride while being shielded from the cold winds or summer heat, ensuring a pleasant experience regardless of the season.

Great Big Wheel also stands out for its ability to accommodate a wide range of groups. Couples looking for a romantic outing will appreciate the private compartments that offer a cozy atmosphere, while families can enjoy the ride together in larger groups. The ferris wheel's slow rotation allows passengers to take in the views at their own pace, making it an ideal attraction for people of all ages.

Service-wise, Great Big Wheel offers a variety of options to suit different preferences and needs. Visitors can purchase individual tickets or opt for group discounts, making it an affordable choice for families and friends. The attraction also offers special promotions during holidays or events, so it's worth checking their website for deals. Additionally, the ferris wheel is open year-round, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing seasons from a unique perspective.

Great Big Wheel has received mixed reviews from customers over the years. While some visitors have praised the uniqueness of the ride and its stunning views, others have expressed dissatisfaction with certain aspects of their experience. For example, one customer mentioned feeling uncomfortable due to being forced to share a compartment with strangers during their ride. However, despite these occasional issues, many guests still find the Great Big Wheel to be a worthwhile attraction that offers an unforgettable experience.

One common theme among positive reviews is the breathtaking view of Minneapolis and St. Paul that passengers can enjoy from the top of the ferris wheel. Many visitors have described the experience as "magical" or "incredible," especially during sunset when the city lights come alive. The slow rotation of the wheel allows passengers to fully appreciate the beauty of the surrounding area, making it a memorable experience for both locals and tourists.

Overall, Great Big Wheel is more than just a ferris wheel—it's an attraction that offers a unique perspective on one of the most iconic urban landscapes in the Midwest. Whether you're visiting Falcon Heights for the first time or looking for a fun activity to enjoy with loved ones, the Great Big Wheel promises an experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

So why not take a ride on the Great Big Wheel today? With its stunning views, unique design, and year-round operation, it's an attraction you won't want to miss. Whether you're visiting Minneapolis or St. Paul, this ferris wheel offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is perfect for people of all ages and interests. Don't forget to bring your camera—these views are too good not to capture!