The iconic Ferris wheel is a staple of the amusement park skyline. Its presence conjures the anticipation of reaching the top, where panoramic views await. At the Boardwalk, this ride has a rich history that spans nearly a century. Join me as we journey through the history of the Ferris wheel at the Boardwalk and celebrate the latest addition to this legacy, the Dream Wheel.
The First Ferris Wheel
The history of this type of ride goes back to the 19th century. Before the development of steel wheels, a number of wooden “roundabouts” could be found throughout the country. George Washington Gale Ferris, Jr. designed and constructed the first official Ferris wheel for the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. Three decades later in 1925, the Boardwalk welcomed its first Ferris wheel. In the middle of the roaring ’20s and just a year after the opening of the Giant Dipper, guests could take a spin on this concessionaire operated ride. Little is known about this early wheel that only graced the Boardwalk until 1929.
The Kiddie Ferris Wheel
Visitors to the Boardwalk would have to wait another 20 years before their next chance to take in the views from the top of a full-size Ferris wheel. However, our smaller guests would enjoy the thrill of the kiddie Ferris wheel that was a mainstay of kiddie land from 1945 to 1970. Charles Canfield, Chairman of the Board, fondly recalls his early teenage years when he was only old enough to operate the kiddieland rides.
The Big Eli Wheel
In November 1958 Santa Cruz Seaside Company Board of Directors approved the purchase of a No. 16 Big Eli Wheel. The ride opened to guests for the 1959 season at the entrance to the colonnade. Manufactured by the Eli Bridge Company, this wheel, also known as the “Aristocrat” stood just over 55 feet tall and accommodated sixteen seats. It was moved to the river-end in the early 1980s, where it stayed until its last operating day in 2017. During its fifty-eight year run at the Boardwalk this wheel brought thrill and joy to many Boardwalk guests who made it clear that they were going to sorely miss the ride when it was removed.
The Ferris wheel was the site of one very memorable event in 2011. Daredevil Nik Wallenda and a crew from the Discovery Channel, after much preparation and anticipation, filmed two stunts at the Boardwalk, one of which was walking on the top of the Ferris wheel as it rotated! The crowd looked on as the talented performer completed his task with grace and ease.
The Dream Wheel
The overwhelming guest comments when the Big Eli Wheel was removed made it clear to Boardwalk management that in time, another wheel would grace the Boardwalk… And, just in time for this summer, the Boardwalk opened the Dream Wheel. If you have been down to the Boardwalk recently you are sure to have seen the colorful wheel and gondolas standing tall as a testament to tradition and innovation. The Dream Wheel, manufactured by Chance Rides in Wichita, Kansas, is a modern take on a quintessential seaside amusement park Ferris wheel. Standing just under 65’ tall, this family friendly ride contains 15 colorful gondolas providing stunning views of the Boardwalk, Monterey Bay, downtown Santa Cruz, and the majestic coastline.
The Ferris wheel’s evolution at the Boardwalk is a reflection of the park’s commitment to providing unforgettable experiences. From majestic views of the original wheel in 1925 to the modern splendor of the Dream Wheel today, this iconic attraction has been a source of joy and excitement for generations of visitors. I hope you get a chance to take a spin on the Dream Wheel!
Cheers,
Jessie
