New Ferris Wheel Opens In Scottsdale With 80-Foot Valley Views

SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Want a new way to see Scottsdale from above without melting in the Arizona heat?

A new Ferris wheel at Arizona Boardwalk is now giving visitors 80-foot views of the Valley from climate-controlled gondolas.

The Boardwalk Big Wheel recently opened at Arizona Boardwalk, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, as the entertainment complex celebrates its 10th anniversary.

The attraction is the complex's 10th and is billed as Arizona's tallest permanent Ferris wheel. It can also be seen from Loop 101.

The wheel features 18 enclosed, air-conditioned gondolas, each with room for up to six people. The climate-controlled cabins are designed to keep riders comfortable during both Arizona's hot summers and cooler winter months.

From the top, riders can take in 360-degree views of the Valley, including Camelback Mountain, the McDowell Mountains, Four Peaks, Black Mountain and Mummy Mountain.

Each gondola stops at the top of the wheel, giving passengers time to take in the views before continuing around.

“There is something timeless about taking in the scenery from high above with family and friends,” Arizona Boardwalk CEO Amram Knishinsky said in an announcement.

Tickets start at $9 for the first rider and $6 for each additional rider sharing the same gondola. An all-day unlimited-ride pass costs $20 on the day of purchase.

Visitors can also buy combination tickets that bundle the Big Wheel with other Arizona Boardwalk attractions, with discounts of up to 40%.

The Big Wheel operates daily, although hours can vary. Visitors should check the attraction's schedule before heading over.