The bigger Ferris wheels get, the more cash flows

Posted | Contributed by Jason Hammond

The London Eye Ferris wheel, inaugurated on Dec. 31, 1999, was only meant to stay a few years. But almost immediately, it was clear that the 443-foot Eye would be a keeper. Its success, in turn, has reinvigorated demand for Ferris wheels. Similar “observation wheels,” a name that has come back into vogue, have recently opened or are being built in Malaysia; Manchester, England; Singapore; and Melbourne, Australia, with others planned for Berlin, Dubai, Beijing and Orlando, Fla.

Read more from The New York Times.

"The London Eye Ferris Wheel" even became prominent location and factor in premiere episode, and beyond, of the new 'Doctor Who' series revival that began in 2005.

They give the people a view of the city. Of course, they are going to get a lot of revenue. The only way they won't if it's a city with nothing in it.

^How does that work? A city with nothing in it? ;)

In any case, you could put a wheel just about anywhere and have a great view. But I think San Francisco would be great...especicially if it were tall enough to peek out over the fog when it rolls in during summer.

Wow. It almost seems crazy not to think of one of these on the Detroit River in downtown Detroit as a city icon. A wheel? In the Motor City? If you've ever been to the top of the RenCen, you know there is alot to see there.

If I remember my urban legend correctly, the big tire along I-94 near I-275 is a ferris wheel frame with a "rubber" skin. I agree - why not build a bigger version?

If you're refering to the old "UNIROYAL" tire, I believe that is the cover for the wheel that was at the 1964-65 New Yorks Worlds Fair

You are both correct.

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