Chicago’s Navy Pier Ferris wheel takes its last spin

The state’s largest tourist attraction is getting a makeover.

The wheel is entwined with Chicago history, which made its world debut at the World Columbian Exposition, known as the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. The project will cost $26.5 million, to be financed by a private loan, not taxpayer dollars, a Chicago Tribune report said. A Ferris wheel 50-feet taller, is coming to Navy Pier and is expected to be in place next summer. The new wheel with 42 temperature-controlled gondolas is being installed as part of Navy Pier’s centennial celebration.

Then around 8pm Sunday night, a fewlucky riders got their chance for one last spin.

Crews will begin dismantling the Ferris wheel Monday morning, around 7:30 and will be finished by Halloween.

It will also feature safety enhancements and complete a full circle three times – unlike the current wheel, which only completes one.