The Niagara SkyWheel in Clifton Hill soars 175 ft above the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls. The attraction, which opened on 17 June 2006, is the largest observation wheel in Canada. Each ride spans roughly 8–12 minutes, and you’ll gain an unbelievable vantage of American Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and the Niagara River. It sits just beyond the Rainbow International Bridge and makes a fantastic 1st stop on the Ontario side of the border.
The Niagara SkyWheel is a delightful attraction to include on your Niagara Falls vacation. Thanks to its spacious, climate-controlled gondolas, you can enjoy the sweeping views in a comfortable environment. Although the plunging waterfalls are the star attraction, don’t miss the spectacular images of Clifton Hill and the Niagara skyline. The non-reflective windows of your gondola let you take beautiful photos glare-free.
photo by A.H Mansouri (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified
What are the highlights of the Niagara SkyWheel?
The Niagara SkyWheel features world-class design, and its Swiss-manufactured gondolas provide comfortable rides any time of year. The 42 fully-enclosed passenger cars have air conditioning and heating capabilities. Each gondola holds up to 6 passengers, so there’s plenty of space for your family and friends. Upon its grand opening, the Niagara SkyWheel earned a feature on Discovery Channel for its innovative design.
Calming music inside the gondolas creates a relaxed space for guests who may have a fear of heights. Evening rides on the Niagara SkyWheel add the extra experience of the glistening lights on the falls and nearby Clifton Hill attractions. With the right timing, you can watch the colourful fireworks display above Niagara Falls The observation wheel makes around 3 to 4 rotations per ride to ensure you have plenty of opportunities for dramatic views.
photo by Giorgio Galeotti (CC BY-SA 4.0) modified
What else can you see around the Niagara SkyWheel?
The Niagara SkyWheel sits on Clifton Hill, the sprawling entertainment promenade of Niagara Falls. Before or after your ride on the SkyWheel, partake in the exciting attractions on the Street of Fun. Right beside the SkyWheel, Dinosaur Adventure Golf offers 2 18-hole courses decorated with life-sized dinosaurs. From your SkyWheel gondola, you can often spot mini-golfers playing on the Jurassic-style course. The Ripley's Believe it or Not! Odditorium is around the corner and opens your eyes to hundreds of bizarre exhibits.
The Movieland Wax Museum of the Stars lets you meet your favourite celebrities, while Niagara Speedway features a full-throttle go-kart track. Let the kids run wild by playing laser tag and arcade games at Niagara Falls Fun Zone. The Big Top Mirror & Laser Maze challenges you to an illusionary obstacle course, and Zombie Attack features a 6D adventure ride into the apocalypse. If you’re craving a snack after your breathtaking ride on Niagara SkyWheel, grab some gourmet pizza from Boston Pizza.
Good to know about the Niagara SkyWheel
The Clifton Hill promenade around the Niagara SkyWheel often feels hectic, but it has convenient parking in Niagara Falls. Just 1 block from the falls, the spacious lots near Casino Niagara place you in a central location. You’re only a 5-minute walk from the observation wheel. If you’re arriving by bus, Clifton Hill offers free charter parking when booking any attractions.
Although there’s likely to be a long line to ride the Niagara SkyWheel, don’t let that deter you. Passenger boarding is a quick process with 6 loading docks for a speedy transfer of riders. The Niagara SkyWheel can accommodate 300 people every 15 minutes to ensure you won’t have a lengthy wait. Despite the chilly Canadian weather, winter is a splendid time to enjoy the Niagara SkyWheel. The Winter Festival of Lights from November to January presents a kaleidoscope of sparkling lights, illuminated displays, and fireworks from your climate-controlled gondola.
photo by Gary J. Wood (CC BY-SA 2.0) modified
Niagara SkyWheel in Niagara Falls
Location: 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3N4, Canada
Open: Daily from 9 am to 1 am
Phone: +1 905-358-4793
