The Ferris Wheel.

The Ferris Wheel is one of the most iconic rides at fairs around the world, and its history dates back several centuries.

The concept of a spinning wheel with passengers has ancient roots. It is believed that the first rudimentary designs appeared in the Byzantine Empire, around the 17th century, when European travelers described similar structures in Constantinople (present-day Istanbul). These wheels were manually propelled by people walking on them or pushing them from below.

However, the modern Ferris Wheel was born in 1893, when engineer George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. designed the first large wheel for the Chicago World's Fair. His structure was 80 meters tall and had the capacity to carry 2,160 people in a single turn. This innovative ride was an American response to the Eiffel Tower in Paris, created for the 1889 World's Fair. Since then, the wheel has become a symbol of excitement and fun at fairs and amusement parks.

The Ferris Wheel in Mexico

In Mexico, the Ferris Wheel has been a fundamental part of traditional fairs and traveling exhibitions for decades. Its appeal lies in the thrill of soaring to great heights and enjoying panoramic views of cities and towns. Puerto Vallarta is no exception, as it currently has a Ferris Wheel in Pitillal Plaza, which will remain open for a limited time.

This type of attraction not only provides fun but also becomes a tourist attraction. In cities like Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey, there are giant ferris wheels that offer spectacular views of the metropolis. Although the Pitillal wheel is temporary, it has undoubtedly generated great interest among Vallarta residents and visitors who want to experience the sensation of flying over the city.

Puerto Vallarta has considered the possibility of having a permanent Ferris Wheel in its municipality for several reasons, primarily related to tourism and entertainment. However, this idea also has negative aspects that must be taken into account. A permanent Ferris Wheel could become an icon of the city, similar to other coastal cities such as Santa Monica, London, or Dubai. It could attract more visitors, especially those seeking panoramic views of the sea and the bay. It would generate direct and indirect jobs in maintenance, operation, and ticket sales. It would benefit nearby businesses, such as restaurants, souvenir shops, and tourist transportation.

A well-located Ferris Wheel would allow for stunning views of Banderas Bay, sunsets, and the mountains. It could be a family entertainment alternative for residents and tourists.

However, a large Ferris Wheel would alter the natural landscape of the bay, affecting the traditional view of the city. Light pollution could affect wildlife, especially seabirds. Weather conditions (hurricanes, humidity, and salinity) could accelerate the deterioration of the structure, increasing repair costs. It is difficult to find a suitable space without affecting the local community or established tourist areas. If it were installed on the Malecón, it could disrupt the traditional aesthetic and identity of the historic center. Building a quality Ferris Wheel requires a multimillion-dollar investment. It is not guaranteed that the number of visitors will be sufficient to recover the investment. Puerto Vallarta already has unique natural attractions such as its beaches, whale watching, and rainforest. Instead of a Ferris wheel, investment could be made in cultural or ecological projects or in improving the existing tourism infrastructure.

Fun Facts About the Ferris Wheel

● The tallest Ferris wheel in the world is the Ain Dubai, opened in 2021, with a height of 250 meters.

● Many modern Ferris wheels have enclosed, air-conditioned cabins, allowing for comfort regardless of the weather.

At the San Marcos Fair (Aguascalientes) and the León Fair, the Ferris wheels are among the most anticipated attractions each year.

So, while the idea of ​​a permanent Ferris Wheel in Puerto Vallarta sounds attractive, its costs, environmental impact, and lack of viability make it an undesirable proposition. The city should focus on enhancing its natural beauty and cultural richness before adopting a project that might not fit its identity. If you're in Puerto Vallarta, don't miss the opportunity to ride the Pitillal Ferris Wheel, enjoy the view, and experience the thrill of being soaring.