Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel

Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel rises almost 200 feet above Bayside Marketplace at 401 Biscayne Blvd in Downtown Miami. Guests ride in one of 42 fully enclosed, climate-controlled glass gondolas that hold up to eight people, so the heat never gets in the way of the view.

A single ride lasts 12 to 15 minutes and looks out over Biscayne Bay, Bayfront Park, the downtown skyline and, on clear days, the Atlantic and Miami Beach. One VIP gondola adds leather bucket seats, a custom LED light show and a glass-bottom floor.

Tickets start around $25. The wheel opens at noon on weekdays and at 11 AM Friday through Sunday, and stays open until 9:30 or 10 PM, which makes sunset and after-dark rides easy to plan.

Parking is available at Bayside Marketplace, the entrance is wheelchair accessible, and restaurants and restrooms sit steps away. Guests praise the smooth ride, the friendly staff and the panoramic skyline views, and the wheel works well for cruise stops, family afternoons and date nights.