World’s tallest portable ferris wheel to offer modified operations July 3
Charleston, W.Va. – The West Virginia Department of Tourism today announced a sensory-friendly hour for the America250 Ferris Wheel, part of the Capital City Celebration at the State Capitol Complex. The world’s tallest portable ferris wheel is set to offer modified operations from 9:00—10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 3. This offering is designed to provide a more comfortable experience for guests with sensory sensitivities, featuring reduced lighting effects, limited sound, and smaller crowds during the designated hour.
“We’re proud to offer a sensory-friendly hour for the America250 Wheel as part of the Capital City Celebration,” said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. We want this event to be enjoyable for all guests, and we can’t wait to celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime milestone with everyone.”
In addition, there will be a sensory-friendly area available in the Culture Center library for guests who need a quiet space to rest and recharge, open Thursday, July 2 from 5:00—7:00 p.m, and Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5 from 10:00 a.m.—10:00 p.m. Guests can take part in calming activities such as coloring pages, sensory bins, and access comfortable seating and noise-reduction headphones. This area will be open to both children and adults and will be staffed with trained personnel who will be available to assist with any support needs.
About the America250 Wheel
The America 250 Ferris Wheel will stand 230 feet tall, offering unparalleled views stretching up to 14 miles from the top. Featuring 45 gondolas, each representing a U.S. president and seating six riders, the wheel will have the capacity to carry up to 1,600 guests per hour. At night, an impressive 256-color LED display will transform the structure into a vibrant spectacle visible across the Charleston skyline.
Capital City Celebration Event Highlights
This four-day event brings family-friendly excitement to the West Virginia State Capitol Complex in Charleston, featuring State Capitol tours, living history reenactments, an artisan market, food vendors, live music performances, an adventure zone, and more.
Each evening, the event will conclude with a stunning 3D light show projected onto the Capitol, inspired by the light display featured on the Washington Monument, offering highlights from West Virginia and America’s history.
Held alongside the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta, West Virginia’s Capital City Celebration is the perfect addition to a weekend-long festivity. Free shuttle service will be available between the two events throughout the weekend.
