Mickey’s Fun Wheel is the crowning jewel of Paradise Pier and an iconic image of Disney California Adventure. It’s a marvelous Ferris wheel bringing to life the “vintage” times of Walt Disney’s life.
Mickey’s Fun Wheel has two different gondola options: swinging and non-swinging. Guests that are subject to motion-sickness should avoid the swinging gondolas. There are two separate lines for either gondola choice. The swinging gondola line is typically longer than the non-swinging, but there are 16 swinging gondolas available so the line moves fairly quickly. The views from Mickey’s Fun Wheel at 150 ft high are spectacular and not only offer views of Paradise Pier, but the newly opened Carsland.Once on the gondola, be sure to get views from both sides. Be aware, this attraction closes early for the World of Color performances so plan for time accordingly. Mickey’s Fun Wheel is an integral piece in the World of Color show and dazzles each guest with it’s chameleon display. Day or night, this is a remarkable and exhilarating experience you won’t want to miss.
Swinging vs Non-swinging: If you are in doubt, choose the non-swinging gondola. This is a sure-fire way to ensure that you will enjoy your experience on Mickey’s Fun Wheel.
For guests choosing the swinging gondola: Be sure to enter the proper queue and always keep in mind that you are on a swinging gondola. This may seem obvious, but because the gondolas are on an oblong track there is a point when the swinging motion is minimal. Guests may be a little surprised when the gondola starts to slide. There are complimentary motion-sickness bags in case a guest has misjudged the motion of the swinging gondolas or the strength of their stomach.
The swinging motion is more “intense” if you sit facing Cars Land and the Midway because as the gondola slides on the track, the gondola tips downward and the ground appears to be rushing towards you. The feeling of falling is very real. Guests facing “Goofy’s Sky School” will see more sky as the gondola tips and are less likely to have the “falling” sensation.
Guests with Special Needs: Each time our family rides Mickey’s Fun Wheel, we show our guest assistance card to a friendly Cast Member and are directed to the appropriate queue. Guests with special needs are also able to choose which gondola experience they would prefer. Our four-year old Dash, who usually likes large motion rides such as Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, does NOT like the swinging gondolas. It really helps to be upbeat about the ride for the kids, no matter the experience you might be having, especially if you forget which gondola you’re on until it starts to slide!
Don’t forget to check out this World of Color post “Glow with the Show” for a chance to be a part of World of Color and the iconic Mickey’s Fun Wheel like never before.
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Excellent tips and information! I never thought about what side of the swinging gondola you sit on making a difference (mostly because I refuse to ride in those).
I don’t blame you! I thought it would be such a gentle ride, like floating in the breeze. But I might have forgotten we were on a swinging one and might have screamed in terror then laughed hysterically when I realized we weren’t falling. I also might have had to coach Hubsters that we needed to put on a good face for the kids. Not saying I did. But that might have happened.