CINCINNATI – The developers of the Banks are celebrating the riverfront development's 10th anniversary in a big way.
From Aug. 31 to Dec. 2 people will be able to ride a 150-foot-high SkyStar Observation Wheel. Advertised as one of the biggest mobile rides of its kind, preparations are currently underway to erect the Ferris Wheel across from the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center on Freedom Way at the Banks.
“Our restaurants and retailers are excited to welcome new visitors and bring a new view to those who have loved The Banks for years,” said Tracy Schwegmann of Jeffrey R. Anderson Real Estate, developer of The Banks. “We’re thrilled to celebrate the 10th anniversary of The Banks in a sky-high way.”
The observation wheel will have 36 climate-controlled, enclosed gondolas capable of holding up to six passengers at a time. The ride operators promise a private experience for passengers, who will not be paired with strangers.
The attraction is similar to the Skywheel, a 155-foot-high Ferris Wheel that thrilled guests at Coney Island Amusement Park from May 26 to July 2.
A ride on the SkyStar wheel will include four revolutions and last approximately 12 minutes, according to Todd Schneider of SkyStar.
“SkyStar is America’s largest portable observation wheel and it will light up the sky with over 1 million colored LED lights,” Schneider said of the St. Louis-based company. “This experience promises to provide unique views of downtown Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky, the Suspension Bridge and the Ohio River.”
Tickets to ride SkyStar cost $12.50 and can currently be purchased online at www.skystarwheel.com. Hours of operation for the wheel will be 4-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; noon-midnight Friday; 10 a.m.-midnight Saturday; and 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday.
“SkyStar will inject even more excitement into Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, our Ale to the Queen City Thanksgiving weekend craft beer festival, Bud Light Tailgate Zone pre-game Bengals parties and more,” said Cynthia Oxley, director of Corporate and Community Events for the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber. “We look forward to introducing new events designed to showcase SkyStar and celebrate The Banks.”
