SkyView Atlanta: A Local’s Guide to Downtown’s Giant Ferris Wheel

If you’ve spent any time in downtown Atlanta, you’ve probably noticed the huge Ferris wheel towering over Centennial Olympic Park. SkyView Atlanta is one of the city’s most visible attractions, offering a bird’s-eye view of the skyline, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and the park below.

This guide walks you through what SkyView Atlanta is like, how to plan your visit, what it costs, and how it fits into a full day in downtown Atlanta.

What Is SkyView Atlanta?

SkyView Atlanta is a large observation wheel located in the heart of downtown, directly across from Centennial Olympic Park.

• Address: 168 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Neighborhood: Downtown Atlanta / Centennial Olympic Park area

The wheel features climate-controlled gondolas so it runs year-round, even in Georgia’s summer heat or cooler winter months. A full ride typically includes multiple rotations, giving you several chances to enjoy and photograph the view.

It’s a popular stop for:

• Visitors exploring downtown for the first time
• Locals planning date nights or special-occasion outings
• Families looking for a quick, memorable activity near major attractions

Why SkyView Is Popular in Atlanta

Panoramic Views of the Atlanta Skyline

From the top, you can see:

• Centennial Olympic Park directly below
• Mercedes-Benz Stadium to the southwest
• State Farm Arena
• The CNN Center area
• Midtown’s high-rises in the distance
• On very clear days, parts of Stone Mountain on the horizon

Because the gondolas are enclosed and mostly glass, you get a 360-degree view without wind or exposure.

A Quick, Easy Downtown Experience

Compared to all-day attractions like the Georgia Aquarium or World of Coca-Cola, SkyView is:

• Short and simple – usually 15–20 minutes of ride time
• Easy to fit into a lunch break, a pre-concert stop, or between meetings
• An accessible “overview” of downtown for first-time visitors

Fun for Couples, Families, and Small Groups

Locals often use SkyView for:

• Date nights – especially at sunset or after dark
• Family outings – kids often enjoy the novelty of being high above the city
• Out-of-town guests – a quick introduction to Atlanta’s layout

Location, Parking, and Getting There

Exact Location

SkyView Atlanta sits on the northwest side of Centennial Olympic Park, at the corner of:

• Luckie St NW and Cone St NW

You’ll see the wheel from several blocks away; it’s one of the easiest landmarks to spot downtown.

Getting There by MARTA

Using MARTA can be easier than dealing with downtown parking:

• Take the Red or Gold Line to Peachtree Center Station or Five Points Station.
• From Peachtree Center, it’s about a 10–12 minute walk west toward Centennial Olympic Park.
• From Five Points, walk northwest along Marietta St NW toward the park.

This is often the most convenient option if you’re staying in Midtown, Buckhead, or near the airport.

Driving and Parking

Downtown parking is common but can be pricey and varies by event day. Options near SkyView include:

• Surface lots and garages along Marietta St NW, Luckie St NW, and Williams St NW
• Garages near CNN Center, State Farm Arena, and Georgia World Congress Center

Keep in mind:

• Rates often increase during Falcons, United, and Hawks games or big events.
• It’s usually cheaper and less stressful to park a few blocks away and walk.

If you’re using a rideshare, most drivers will drop off along Luckie St or near Centennial Olympic Park Dr.

Typical Hours and When to Go

SkyView Atlanta generally operates daily, with hours that often extend into the evening. Exact times can shift by season, day of week, and events downtown, so it’s wise to check same-day hours before you go.

Best Times to Ride

Here’s how different times of day feel:

• Daytime (late morning to afternoon)

  • Clear views of downtown buildings and park activity
  • Often less crowded on weekdays
  • Better if you’re visiting with kids who sleep early

• Sunset / Golden Hour

  • Many locals consider this the most scenic time
  • You see both the city in daylight and the lights coming on
  • Can be busier, especially on weekends

• After Dark

  • City lights, lit-up stadiums, and building signs stand out
  • Feels more like a date-night or special-occasion vibe
  • Great if you’re already downtown for a concert or game

If you’re sensitive to crowds, try:

• Weekday afternoons
• Non-event days when there are no major games or conventions nearby

Tickets and Pricing Basics

Exact prices can change, and specials may be offered at different times, but here’s the general structure you can expect:

Common Ticket Types

You can typically buy tickets:

• At the on-site ticket window
• In advance, if you prefer to lock in a time or avoid some wait

💡 Tip for locals: If you live in metro Atlanta and go downtown often, watch for weekday or off-peak promotions, which sometimes offer better value.

What the Ride Experience Is Like

Boarding and Ride Length

Once you have tickets:

1. You’ll queue in a boarding line.
2. Staff will guide you into a gondola as the wheel slows.
3. Doors close securely, and you’re seated for several rotations.

A standard experience typically lasts around 10–15 minutes of moving time, often spread over multiple full rotations of the wheel. Times can vary depending on crowds and operating pace.

The Gondolas

Most cabins are:

• Fully enclosed and climate-controlled (air-conditioned in summer, heated in winter)
• Equipped with bench-style seating
• Shared with other visitors unless you have a private or VIP booking

If you’re nervous about heights, it helps to:

• Sit closest to the center bench
• Avoid looking straight down on your first rotation
• Focus on the skyline views rather than the ground

Safety and Accessibility

While safety practices can change over time, visitors typically find:

• Staff present for boarding and unloading
• Gondolas designed for stability with smooth motion
• Rules about remaining seated and not leaning on doors or windows

If you have specific accessibility needs, it’s a good idea to:

• Ask staff on-site about wheelchair access and boarding procedures
• Allow extra time if someone in your group needs assistance getting on or off

Is SkyView Atlanta Kid-Friendly?

Yes, SkyView is often a hit with kids, especially those who like rides and views.

Things parents in Atlanta commonly consider:

• The ride is high off the ground, so children who dislike heights may be nervous.
• Because the gondolas are enclosed, many families feel more comfortable bringing younger kids.
• Strollers typically need to be stored or folded before boarding; staff can explain options.

To make it smoother with children:

• Go midday to avoid late-night downtown crowds.
• Visit before nap time, not after, to limit meltdowns in an enclosed cabin.
• Pair it with nearby kid-friendly stops like the Georgia Aquarium or Children’s Museum of Atlanta to fill out the day.

Planning a Full Downtown Atlanta Day Around SkyView

SkyView is best treated as one part of your downtown plan. The area around Luckie St NW and Centennial Olympic Park is packed with notable Atlanta attractions within a short walk:

Within a Short Walk

• Centennial Olympic Park – Green space, fountains, and walking paths
• Georgia Aquarium – Major regional draw for residents and visitors
• World of Coca-Cola – Museum experience focused on the Coca-Cola brand
• College Football Hall of Fame – Interactive exhibits for sports fans
• CNN Center area – Food options and event spaces
• State Farm Arena – Hawks games and concerts
• Mercedes-Benz Stadium – Falcons, Atlanta United, concerts, and other major events

Sample Itinerary Ideas

For visitors:

• Morning: Georgia Aquarium
• Lunch: Nearby restaurant on Marietta St or around Centennial Olympic Park
• Afternoon: SkyView Atlanta ride + walk through the park
• Evening: Dinner downtown, then a game or show at State Farm Arena or Mercedes-Benz Stadium

For locals:

• Weeknight: Early dinner downtown
• Sunset or night ride on SkyView for a city “reset”
• Walk through the park, then head home by MARTA or rideshare

Tips for a Smooth Visit

• Check event calendars for State Farm Arena, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and the Georgia World Congress Center. Big events can affect traffic, parking, and wait times.
• Dress for photos. You’ll likely take skyline shots inside the gondola; light-colored clothing can photograph better in the enclosed cabins.
• Bring a secure phone grip. You may be tempted to lean toward the glass for pictures; a strap or grip reduces the chance of dropping your phone.
• Plan for lines on weekends and holidays. If you’re bringing kids or a group, factor in extra time for queuing.
• Consider the weather, but don’t worry too much. Rain or light overcast skies may limit distance views but often reduce glare and can make for interesting photos of the city lights.

How SkyView Fits Into the Bigger Atlanta Experience

For Atlanta residents and frequent visitors, SkyView isn’t an all-day event—it’s a short, memorable highlight that works well:

• As an introduction for people who haven’t seen downtown from above
• As a “special touch” on a date, anniversary, or birthday outing
• As a quick, family-friendly break between larger attractions

If you’re planning any time around Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, or a downtown sports event, adding SkyView Atlanta to your schedule is a straightforward way to see the city from a new angle without committing hours of your day.