Atlanta Ferris Wheel: Your Guide to SkyView Atlanta in Downtown

If you search for the Atlanta Ferris wheel, you’re almost always looking for SkyView Atlanta – the giant observation wheel overlooking Centennial Olympic Park and the downtown skyline. Whether you live in the city, are here for a weekend, or planning a field trip, this guide walks you through what to expect, how to get there, ticket basics, and practical tips specific to Atlanta, Georgia.

What Is the “Atlanta Ferris Wheel”?

The Atlanta Ferris wheel refers to SkyView Atlanta, a nearly 20-story-tall observation wheel in the heart of downtown. It’s designed more like a modern observation wheel than a traditional fairground ride:

• Enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas
• Views of downtown Atlanta, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, State Farm Arena, and Centennial Olympic Park
• Option for a VIP gondola with upgraded seating and a glass floor

Location:

• SkyView Atlanta
• Address: 168 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Neighborhood: Downtown, across from Centennial Olympic Park

Why Ride the Atlanta Ferris Wheel?

1. Iconic Atlanta Skyline Views

From the top of SkyView Atlanta, you can see:

• Centennial Olympic Park, the fountains, and surrounding green space
• Landmarks like CNN Center, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and State Farm Arena
• The mix of historic and modern buildings that define downtown

On a clear day, you can see well beyond downtown and midtown. At night, the wheel’s own LED lights and the skyline lights give a very different, more dramatic experience.

2. All-Weather, All-Season Experience

Because the gondolas are enclosed and climate-controlled, SkyView works in Atlanta’s:

• Hot, humid summers
• Rainy days
• Cooler winter evenings

This makes it a reliable option for visitors building a busy Atlanta itinerary and locals looking for something to do regardless of the forecast.

3. Great for Visitors, Date Nights, and Families

Locals often use the Atlanta Ferris wheel for:

• Date nights before or after dinner in downtown, Castleberry Hill, or Midtown
• Family outings, especially combined with attractions like the Georgia Aquarium or World of Coca-Cola
• Out-of-town guests, as a quick “overview tour” of the city from above
• Photos and special occasions, like birthdays or proposals (VIP gondolas are common for this)

Hours, Tickets, and What to Expect

Typical Operating Patterns

SkyView Atlanta generally operates:

• 7 days a week
• Daytime into late evening, with later hours on weekends and busier seasons

Most Atlantans treat it as an afternoon through night attraction. Evening rides are especially popular for skyline views and cooler temperatures.

Ticket Basics

SkyView typically offers:

• General admission tickets (per person)
• Child tickets (usually at a reduced rate, depending on age)
• VIP gondola tickets (separate pricing, often per group or per rider)

You can usually:

• Purchase tickets on-site at the ticket office at 168 Luckie St NW
• Often buy online in advance, which may help reduce waiting in line during peak times

How long is the ride?

• Most visitors experience multiple rotations, often totaling around 10–15 minutes from boarding to exit.
• The wheel typically slows or stops briefly to allow riders to safely board and exit, so the exact time can vary.

Getting to the Atlanta Ferris Wheel

By MARTA (Public Transit)

For many locals and visitors, MARTA is the easiest way to get to SkyView.

1. Take the Red or Gold MARTA rail line to:

   • Peachtree Center Station or
   • GWCC/CNN Center Station

2. From either station, it’s typically a 5–10 minute walk to SkyView Atlanta, cutting through or around Centennial Olympic Park.

MARTA is especially useful if you’re staying in Midtown, Buckhead, or near the airport, since those areas are directly on the Red/Gold lines.

Driving and Parking

If you’re driving:

• Use the address 168 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303 in your GPS.
• There are multiple paid parking decks and surface lots within a few blocks, including those serving:
  • Centennial Olympic Park
  • CNN Center
  • State Farm Arena

Tips for drivers:

• Arrive early during big events or game days at Mercedes-Benz Stadium or State Farm Arena, since parking fills quickly.
• Consider using rideshare if you’re combining your visit with dining or nightlife and want to avoid parking stress.

Best Time to Ride the Atlanta Ferris Wheel

Different times of day offer different experiences:

Daytime

• Clear views of landmarks and neighborhoods
• Good for families with young children
• Often a bit less crowded than evening, depending on the day and season

Sunset

• Popular for dates and photos
• You can see the city in daylight and watch it gradually light up
• Lines may be longer, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons

Night

• The skyline lights, stadiums, and the wheel’s own lighting system make for a dramatic scene
• Feels more like a “night out” attraction, especially if you’re already downtown for a concert or game
• On busy nights, expect more of a wait and a livelier atmosphere

What You’ll See from the Top

From the top of the Atlanta Ferris wheel, you can usually spot:

• Centennial Olympic Park – the fountains, walkways, and green spaces
• Mercedes-Benz Stadium – home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC
• State Farm Arena – home of the Atlanta Hawks and major concerts
• CNN Center and nearby hotel towers
• The cluster of downtown office buildings and hotels
• On clear days, partial views toward Midtown and beyond

Locals often use the ride as a fun way to point out parts of the city to visiting friends and family.

VIP Gondolas and Special Experiences

SkyView Atlanta offers VIP gondolas for a more private and upgraded ride. Key differences often include:

• Fewer people per gondola (often just your group)
• Upgraded seating and interior
• Sometimes a glass floor for a more immersive view
• A slightly different boarding process, which may reduce wait time

These are popular for:

• Anniversaries and proposals
• Small groups wanting a more private experience
• Visitors building a “special night out” downtown

If you’re planning something important, locals often recommend:

• Calling ahead to ask about VIP availability
• Avoiding major event times if you want a quieter feel

Accessibility and Rider Considerations

SkyView Atlanta is designed to be relatively accessible, but there are a few points to keep in mind:

• Boarding: Gondolas usually stop or slow significantly to allow boarding from a platform.
• Mobility devices: If you or someone in your group uses a wheelchair or mobility aid, it’s best to:
  • Arrive a bit early
  • Speak with staff as you get in line so they can assist with boarding
• Height and motion: The wheel moves slowly and steadily, but if you:
  • Have a strong fear of heights
  • Are uncomfortable in enclosed spaces
    you may want to consider whether this is right for you, or start with a daytime ride when the experience can feel less intense.

Families in Atlanta often note that:

• Children can enjoy the ride as long as they’re comfortable with heights.
• Having an adult sit near the window can help kids who are nervous feel more secure.

Safety and What to Bring

General Safety

The Atlanta Ferris wheel is a permanent attraction with professional staff. Common safety practices include:

• Gondolas remaining enclosed during the ride
• Staff guiding boarding and exit
• Slow, controlled rotation with frequent checks

If you have safety-related questions, staff are typically available at the ticket booth and boarding area to explain procedures and policies.

What to Bring (and Not Bring)

Useful items:

• Phone or camera for photos
• Light jacket if you’re riding at night or in colder months (the gondolas are climate-controlled, but you may wait outside in line)
• Water if it’s a hot day (check on-site rules for beverages)

Common restrictions may include:

• No large bags or bulky items that can’t fit comfortably in the gondola
• Limits on food and drink brought into the ride area

Most Atlantans treat it like going into a downtown attraction: bring only what you need and keep valuables secure.

Pairing the Ferris Wheel with Nearby Atlanta Attractions

A major perk of SkyView’s location is how close it is to other key Atlanta spots. Many people plan it as part of a half-day or full-day downtown visit.

Within close walking distance:

• Centennial Olympic Park – fountains, playground areas, open lawns
• Georgia Aquarium – one of Atlanta’s most popular family attractions
• World of Coca-Cola – a museum and experience focused on the Coca-Cola brand and history
• College Football Hall of Fame – interactive exhibits for sports fans
• CNN Center area – access to food courts and shops (offerings can vary over time)

A common local itinerary:

1. Morning: Georgia Aquarium
2. Lunch: Nearby downtown restaurant
3. Afternoon: World of Coca-Cola or College Football Hall of Fame
4. Late afternoon or evening: SkyView Atlanta ride
5. Dinner or dessert nearby, or head to a game or concert

Quick Reference: Atlanta Ferris Wheel (SkyView Atlanta)

Practical Tips from an Atlanta Perspective

To make your experience smoother:

• ✅ Check same-day hours before you head downtown, especially on holidays or during large events.
• ✅ Use MARTA if you want to avoid event traffic and downtown parking fees.
• ✅ Plan for a wait on weekends, holidays, and big event days.
• ✅ Decide on VIP vs. general admission ahead of time, especially if you’re planning a special occasion.
• ✅ Combine the ride with other nearby attractions to make the most of your time downtown.

The Atlanta Ferris wheel (SkyView Atlanta) is an easy, approachable way to see the city from a new angle, whether you’re a longtime Atlantan showing off your hometown or a first-time visitor getting your bearings from above.