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The Boardwalk Big Wheel Is Now Spinning at Arizona Boardwalk

Now Open!

By Sponsored Content August 13, 2026

The Boardwalk Big Wheel Is Now Spinning at Arizona Boardwalk

The Valley's First Permanent Outdoor Ferris Wheel Begins Welcoming Guests During

Arizona Boardwalk’s 10th Anniversary Celebration


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The wait is over! Arizona Boardwalk is thrilled to announce that the Boardwalk Big Wheel is officially open, inviting guests to experience breathtaking views, unforgettable family memories, and a relaxing escape high above the bustling entertainment destination below. With the addition of the Boardwalk Big Wheel, Arizona Boardwalk now offers 10 unique, family-friendly, and entertaining attractions all in one destination!

Standing 80 feet tall, the Boardwalk Big Wheel is the first permanently fixed outdoor Ferris wheel in metro Phoenix and the newest signature attraction at Arizona Boardwalk as the destination celebrates its 10th anniversary. Featuring 18 fully enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas that comfortably seat up to six guests each, the ride offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the McDowell, Black, Mummy, Four Peaks and Camelback Mountains—providing a perspective of the Valley unlike any other. Onboard music and dazzling LED lighting complete the experience, transforming the Big Wheel into a glowing landmark after sunset.

"The Boardwalk Big Wheel was designed to bring families and friends together, creating unforgettable moments while adding an exciting new element to every Arizona Boardwalk visit,” said Ran Knishinsky, Managing Partner at Arizona Boardwalk. "Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a family outing, or simply taking in the incredible Arizona scenery, this attraction offers a one-of-a-kind experience unlike anything else in the Valley."

More than just a new ride, the Boardwalk Big Wheel is a symbol of Arizona Boardwalk's decade-long commitment to creating immersive, family-friendly experiences. During construction, nearly 200 Arizona Boardwalk team members signed permanent steel panels that are now built into the wheel itself—a lasting tribute to the people behind the smiles, experiences, and memorable moments that make Arizona Boardwalk a place families return to again and again.

 

Admission

  • $9 for the first rider
  • $6 for each additional guest in the same gondola
  • All-Day Pass: $20 and enjoy unlimited rides for the entire day of purchase.
  • Combo Ticket: Save up to 40% by bundling the Boardwalk Big Wheel with other Arizona Boardwalk attractions.

Guests can maximize their visit by adding the Boardwalk Big Wheel to Arizona Boardwalk's popular Combo Tickets, which include two unforgettable rides. OdySea Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland Annual Passholders can also upgrade their membership for just $20 to enjoy unlimited rides on the Boardwalk Big Wheel for a full year.

 

Visible from Loop 101, the Boardwalk Big Wheel rises behind Butterfly Wonderland's iconic glass conservatory, creating a striking new landmark on the Scottsdale skyline. It joins Arizona Boardwalk's collection of award-winning attractions—including OdySea Aquarium, Butterfly Wonderland, Museum of Illusions, Cluville, Pangaea: Land of the Dinosaurs, Cyber Quest Family Arcade, UFO Experience, Laser+Mirror Maze and the Boardwalk Carousel—making it easy for families to spend an entire day exploring, playing and creating unforgettable memories together.

 

Tickets to ride the Boardwalk Big Wheel can be purchased onsite or online at Arizona Boardwalk.


About Arizona Boardwalk

Arizona Boardwalk is a one-of-a-kind family entertainment destination in Scottsdale, Arizona, bringing together world-class attractions, dining, shopping and unforgettable experiences all in one convenient location. Anchored by OdySea Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland, Arizona Boardwalk is home to multiple unique attractions, including Museum of Illusions, Cluville, Pangaea: Land of the Dinosaurs, Cyber Quest Family Arcade, UFO Experience: The Truth Is Out There, Laser + Mirror Maze and the Boardwalk Big Wheel. Guests can also enjoy an outdoor courtyard featuring free events as well as the charming Boardwalk Carousel.

Celebrating its 10th Anniversary in 2026, Arizona Boardwalk continues to create memorable experiences for guests of all ages through experiences that entertain, educate, and inspire. Located at 9500 E. Via de Ventura in Scottsdale, Arizona Boardwalk is situated within the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and is part of the vibrant Talking Stick Entertainment District. For more information, visit www.azboardwalk.com or call 480-951-2100.