Get ready to experience Panama City Beach at a whole new level — a much higher level!
How do you feel about being 200 feet up high with a view of our lovely beach? Officials broke ground this past week for a new SkyWheel to be built at Pier Park.
The continued plan of building on Panama City Beach’s acclaim as being one of Florida’s top five leisure destinations seems to be moving along quite nicely and the addition of a SkyWheel is definitely a real game-changer.
The $1.8 million observation wheel will be located at Pier Park, between Dave & Buster’s and JC Penney. It will include 30 climate-controlled gondolas — including one VIP gondola — that can hold up to six adults. People will get sky-high views above the Gulf of Mexico, along with a 360-degree panoramic view of the city. The wheel is expected to open in spring 2018.
The wheel will be built to withstand up to 146 mph winds, which is the level of a Category 4 hurricane. The attraction will also include backup generators and emergency and exit lighting in the event of a power outage.
SkyWheel Attractions, a Koch Development company, will develop and operate the wheel, which will operate year-round with flights lasting about 10-15 minutes. The company also plans to develop other family attractions near the wheel.
