Driving on I-35 through Kansas City’s downtown, it’s hard to miss the newest addition to the city’s skyline: the KC Wheel at Pennway Point! You may be wondering, what’s the deal with this new landmark?
As Kansas City locals who checked it out on the opening weekend, we have all the information you need to know!
What Is The KC Wheel?
The KC Wheel is a ferris wheel in downtown Kansas City. It’s location means that riders will be able to see incredible views of the skyline, as well as many iconic landmarks, like Union Station, the Power and Light Building, and the Kauffman Center.
As we are well aware, Kansas City experiences all four seasons, and the KC Wheel is able to accommodate visitors year-round with it’s 36 climate-controlled, private gondolas.
The floor-to-ceiling windows ensure a 360-degree view of downtown.
The entire ride lasts between 12 – 15 minutes, taking you through multiple rotations.
It’s bright! The wheel has hundreds of thousands of LED lights, meaning it is capable of creating millions of different color combinations.
Honest Review Of The KC Wheel
In our experience, the wheel was a smooth ride. It was much more of a sensory experience than we expected – the gentle swaying and colorful lights made for an interesting experience. The views, especially at the top, were beautiful.
It is pricey, but we thought it was a unique experience and was worth it. We are looking forward to when they will eventually have a restaurant and bar on-site. In the meantime, there are plenty of great date night restaurants in the area.
Pro-tip: sit nearest the doors to see the skyline – otherwise your main views will be of I-35.
VIP Gondola Experience
For those looking for an elevated experience, you can reserve the VIP Gondola. These exclusive gondolas seat up to six guests and offer luxurious seating, floor lighting, and music to enhance your ride.
KC Ferris Wheel Prices
The KC Wheel costs $18.70 per adult and $14.85 per child. They occasionally offer discounts, so check their current information for most up to date pricing.
The VIP Gondola is $55 per adult and $27.50 per child. You can have up to six total in the VIP Gondola.
They offer a #WheelFun package, $65.99 for 4 tickets and a digital photo package.
Where To Buy KC Ferris Wheel Tickets
We do recommend purchasing a ticket in advance to avoid the line. The tickets can be purchased for certain time frame increments – you can purchase them on the KC Wheel website.
Where to Park for KC Wheel at Pennway Point
For parking at the KC Wheel, you’ll enter from 25th Street and Jefferson, next to the IRS Building. They have 163 parking spaces and it is free for the first two hours. If you plan to stay longer, its only $2 per hour.
KC Ferris Wheel Hours
KC Wheel is open 4:00p – 10:00p on weekdays and 12:00p – 10:00p on weekends.
Kansas City Ferris Wheel Location
The KC Wheel sits on a former industrial site in the southern section of downtown Kansas City at Pershing and Pennway. It is closest to Crossroads Arts District and the West Side.
Kansas City Ferris Wheel Height
It is 150-feet tall – the same height as the Statue of Liberty!
Pennway Putt Mini Golf
In addition to the ferris wheel, the Pennway Point entertainment district currently includes Pennway Putt, a family-friendly miniature golf course.
The mini golf course will eventually be $16.50 per person, but is currently $13.20 per person.
They offer a package of four tickets for $43.99.
Covering the wheel and mini golf course are murals by Whiskey Designs, a local Kansas City design firm. The murals represent different iconic parts of Kansas City, with fountains and jazz motifs.
Pennway Point Entertainment District
The KC Wheel and Pennway Putt is just the beginning of the Pennway Point entertainment district. In the coming years, this area will become a hub of excitement with additional attractions, including volleyball courts, ice skating, a neon museum, and a restaurant called the Wheel House.
We are looking forward to seeing how this former industrial site develops into Kansas City’s newest entertainment district!