The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel is a towering 187-foot (57.0 m) observation wheel located in the heart of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This impressive structure, which opened in 2011, has become a beloved landmark and a must-visit attraction for tourists and locals alike.
The Height of the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel
At 187 feet (57.0 m) tall, the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel is the second-tallest extant Ferris wheel in North America, surpassed only by the 212-foot (64.6 m) Texas Star in Dallas. It is also the tallest wheel in the United States east of the Mississippi River, offering visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the Grand Strand.
Gondolas and Capacity
The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel features 42 climate-controlled gondolas, each capable of holding up to 6 people. This results in a total seating capacity of 252 passengers. The ride duration is 10 minutes, allowing the wheel to accommodate up to 1,512 people per hour.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Gondola Capacity | 6 people per gondola |
| Total Gondolas | 42 |
| Total Seating Capacity | 252 passengers |
| Ride Duration | 10 minutes |
| Hourly Capacity | 1,512 people |
VIP Gondola and Experiences
In addition to the standard gondolas, the SkyWheel offers a VIP gondola experience. This special gondola features a glass floor and four leather bucket seats, providing an even more exclusive and luxurious ride. The VIP ride is twice as long as the regular ride and includes a souvenir photo and other special amenities.
Pricing and Operating Hours
The cost of a regular ride on the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel is $14 for passengers 12 and older, $9 for kids 3 to 11, and free for children younger than 2. The VIP rides are priced at $50 for adults and $35 for children.
The SkyWheel is open year-round, allowing visitors to enjoy the stunning views of Myrtle Beach’s coastline and the surrounding area regardless of the season.
Renovations and Upgrades
In January 2021, the SkyWheel closed for renovations and was taken apart and shipped to Wichita, Kansas, where it underwent a major overhaul. The upgrades included new floors and seats in the gondolas, as well as a new logo and lighting on the center globe. The attraction also gained the ability to host safe gender reveals and plans for more light shows.
Conclusion
The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel is a true marvel of engineering and a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the Grand Strand. With its impressive 187-foot height, climate-controlled gondolas, and VIP experiences, the SkyWheel offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Myrtle Beach from a bird’s-eye view.