The Only Ferris Wheel to Travel Route 66 Went From California to Oklahoma

A century ago, as Route 66 wound its way across the U.S., many road-trippers made the drive from Chicago to Santa Monica, stopping in places like Oklahoma City along the way.

Over the years, the iconic highway filled in with attractions, from roadside motels to gilded statues. But there’s only one such attraction that actually traveled Route 66 too. 

From Santa Monica to Oklahoma City: A Ferris Wheel's Journey

For 12 years, the nine-story Pacific Wheel rose over Pacific Park on Santa Monica Pier, providing more than 3 million rides — and appearing in hundreds of commercials and movies, including Iron Man — between 1996 and 2008. When developers wanted to replace the Ferris wheel with a contemporary model, they did what many of us do: listed it for sale on eBay.

After 10 days of bidding, developers of Oklahoma City’s burgeoning Wheeler District won the wheel for $132,400. It was disassembled for its road trip, some 1,300 miles east, with a pit stop in Wichita for upgrades and repairs before finally arriving in its new home. 

The Wheeler Ferris Wheel: At Home in Oklahoma City, OK

Newly named the Wheeler Ferris Wheel, it rose anew on the southern shore of the Oklahoma River, in a rapidly developing neighborhood in need of a marquee attraction. Following $1 million in upgrades, it made its (re)debut in the summer of 2016, complete with 20 sleek gondolas and 5,400 LED lights. Flanked by hammocks and an “OKC” installation, the Ferris wheel is as photogenic and fun as it is fabled. 

Every summer, I make my requisite rounds on the wheel, with skyline views so stunning that it practically moves me to tears. I like to bring a book and lounge in a hammock, as sunset casts its glow over the Devon Tower, and families frolic across the lawn. Any time someone visits me, the Wheeler Ferris Wheel has become a tradition — and a great way to show off my adopted hometown, from 100-feet up. 

And as road-trippers prepare to hit the road for the Route 66 Centennial, it’s a perfect pit stop along the way. Especially considering its own journey along the Mother Road.