the capital wheel

J1775FCdavidj

I really enjoyed riding on the Capital Wheel at around 8pm one evening. It was a fantastic view from the top and felt very secure within the gondola. It was priced fairly for what you get and the heat worked well to keep us comfortable despite the frigid weather and high winds. The winds were actually kinda fun, causing the gondola to rock slightly at the top!! Give it a shot you wont regret it!

UnknownPa

You can see into DC. We really enjoyed the view. Its a little pricey, but worth the view. 8 people can fit in one unit and you go around 5 full times. The line is hidden from where you pay, so ask how long the wait is.

167marcyd

We visited on a Sunday afternoon in January 2015. As some of the reviews have stated, it is a little pricey -- around $30 for two adults (our 2 year old was free of charge). It was a little hazy that day, but the views were still great! My son loved seeing all the boats and the big, decorated Christmas tree from high above, while my husband and I enjoyed the views of the Washington Monument and DC. The ride was smooth and climate controlled, and plenty big. We went around 5 complete turns, which seemed like a reasonable amount of time. On the way in, a photographer snaps photos of the visitors. Our pictures were awful, as we weren't looking at the camera and the wind was quite gusty blowing our hair all around. Needless to say, we didn't purchase them, but we did take a look. The background was the wheel itself and the cost was $15 for one picture or $20 for all (I think there was a total of three). I would recommend this if you are in the area, but would suggest that you familiarize yourself with some of the landmarks in DC so you can recognize them from the sky.

Cheryl52

The biggest I've been on. A 5 and 6 year old enjoyed it too and were not scared, as it is enclosed. Very comfortable, climate controlled.

NealL979

we experienced the Capital Wheel while visiting before Christmas. The sights from the wheel after dark were awesome, particularly in the dark.

love_da_sea

End of MoCo school winter break...trying to think of something fun and local to do. It was great. The whole atmosphere of the National Harbor was christmasy fun - big tree, strolling through the gaylord, having a nice dinner. Did the wheel first. So very quick I was assuming there would be a really long line to go on it but there wasn't walked right up got the ticket and had a tiny wait for the next group to go. Me and 2 of my 3 kids were afraid of heights but my kids didn't seem to mind since its a smooth constantly moving wheel. It seemed like a long ride for the price. ABSOLUTELY great photo ops of the harbor, the Potomac river, and the awakening sculpture from the peak. Fun def. worth it for a one time thing.

MarkLisaM

We watched this big wheel for several days from our hotel and the restaurants. It is huge. We finally decided to go at night. It was just beautiful. Cars are fully enclosed, so don't worry about the weather. While waiting in line, we had a fun time talking to other travelers and locals. Line was about 20 +/- minute wait on the weekend. It is incredibly smooth and comfortable. You get very high and can see a long way. We could see the Washington monument from the top and then as big as the Gaylord Hotel is (about 17 stories), we were looking down on it. It was a great ride.

482aldens

This was a fun time... they don't accept cash, wow is that weird, but they do take credit cards. The view is nice. It is pricey but we got 5 turns on the wheel for $15 plus 10% tax...

EinHI

The wheel is about 180 feet high, but when you are swinging at the top, it feels much higher! We went on a Sunday morning that was a little overcast, but the views were wonderful!

robinhump

We went just before sunset so we got not only the beautiful views of the harbor and surrounding areas but the sun starting to set over the water. The ride is slow and quiet so there's nothing to be afraid of. The gondolas are clean and spacious for four. Each of us thoroughly enjoyed the wheel.

ChefGeorge1

With the Christmas tree up, the Wheel was especially beautiful as it welcomed us to National Harbour. A lovely illumination for many great restaurants and the Peeps store.

junemagpie

The views from the "Capitol Wheel' are amazing! We went on a clear day and could see forever - including the Washington Monument. The cars are comfortable and clean and even if you are afraid of heights you won't notice in this environment. The Christmas decorations in the harbor were especially pretty from up above. Don't miss it!

AllisonS835

This was comfortable but the view was the same as our hotel room. Being protected from the cold weather was helpful.

JEShanks61

We rode the Capital Wheel on Christmas Day evening. The price is good and they offer a senior and military discount. I have seen all of the other Eyes and Wheels, and this is by far the least expensive. You get 3 -4 rotations for your $15.00. It is a fun experience. Do it on a clear day.

kalubam

Not a fan of heights but i dared myself to get on the wheel for the fun of it....going up was great but when we got to the top my heart was racing and that when i got the thoughts of "bad idea" but i loved the views out of the carriage and the overall experience was amazing.