One of Chicago’s most-loved tourist attractions, Chicago Navy Pier ferris wheel, is being dismantled October 2015 and replaced with a entirely new frame that’s 50 feet taller.

The 20 year old ferris wheel took it’s last spin on Sunday evening, offering anyone free rides.  Nearly 3,000 people gathered to enjoy the view of Chicago’s skyline and experience the magical feeling the ride welcomed or in some cases, brought back to many.

“When I heard that the ferris wheel is being taken down, it was a bittersweet moment.  I will miss the fun times I had at Navy Pier on the ferris wheel, but I’m sure that the new ferris wheel will be just as great,” Serena Meyers, freshman, said.

Over the past 20 years, the ferris wheel witnessed many special events.  People getting married in front of the ferris wheel to fireworks every weekend in the summers, the ferris wheel is such an iconic staple of the Chicago experience. Kids growing up in Chicago know how important the ferris wheel is because of all their childhood memories.

“I think it’s great that they are making a new ferris wheel, but they should’ve tried to make it the tallest ferris wheel in the world,” Tahir Razzaq said. “Navy Pier is my second my home, but I wish they could improve more things than just the ferris wheel.”

Despite the ferris wheel being taken down, Navy Pier is replacing it in 2016.  The new ferris wheel will be able to hold eight adults and two children in one gondola.  The old ferris wheel is being retired because, just like anything, Navy Pier wants to improve their attractions.  Everyday Navy Pier has over 500 visitors come to watch iMax, ride rides, view the cityscape, eat food, and hang out with friends.

Be sure to visit the new and improved ferris wheel this upcoming year for magical adventures.

Image by: Google