**From Off TMSM**
This past Wednesday, we were excited to be invited to the amazing media event for the Orlando Eye at the new I-Drive 360 complex. Professional Daredevil, Nik Wallenda, of the famous Flying Wallendas family, completed his most death-defying stunt yet, and we were there to see it! Wallenda walked across the the top of the Orlando Eye observation wheel, which stands at 400 feet, with no safety net. The stunt itself was rather quick, about 45 seconds or so, but we were barely breathing while it was being done. The Today Show was broadcasting it live as well, so the world was watching. Wallenda completed the stunt with ease, and at the end rode down the wheel on TOP of one of the capsules, it was incredible!
When the stunt was completed, the media was invited to stay around and take a ride on the Orlando Eye. This for me, was really exciting. The Orlando Eye project is something that we’ve followed for months, and we’ve been watching and waiting for it all to be completed. We’ve seen it grow from just a wheel base, to the 400 foot beauty that it is today. It’s really something to see. I won’t lie, I was nervous when it was our turn to ride. It’s really big, and I’m not a fan of high places, but I was bound and determined to see this through.
Before boarding your capsule, guests are treated to a photo opportunity, then shown a 4D movie, which features a little of what the experience will feel like. It’s really fun too, because you can feel the breezes and smell the smells coming from the movie, you feel like you’re actually part of the production. Once the movie is done, you are ready to board, then the excitement really begins! The Eye itself is slow moving, and it doesn’t stop when you’re getting on. It’s a smooth transition though, and once you are inside, the door closes and you’re on your way.
I was nervous at first. Excited, but nervous. I wasn’t sure what to expect or how it would feel being in an observation wheel as opposed to a ferris wheel, which is what most people are used to. Well, this is definitely no ordinary wheel. As you start to climb, higher and higher, your anxiety starts to melt away and you begin to really take in your surroundings. I think part of the reason why it doesn’t feel scary, is because of the fact that the wheel turns so slow, so you really ease into going higher. Even though you are in a capsule, and it’s moving, the pod itself doesn’t sway. We moved freely around the inside, walking from side to side, and the capsule didn’t swing one bit. You feel very safe and secure, and for anyone afraid of heights, that’s a huge relief. Honestly, you don’t worry about the height, because you are too busy taking in the view… and oh what a view it is!
The higher you get on the Eye, the more you can see. It was amazing, because you could see so many of Orlando’s most popular attractions, all at the same time. We could see Disney, Universal Studios, Sea World, Fun Spot, and so much more from up there, it’s just beautiful. Sure, 400 feet in the air is an intimidating thing to think about, but I promise you, once you ride the Orlando Eye, you will be so happy that you did. It was one of the best experiences that I’ve had since I’ve moved down here to Florida last year. It’s a rush, being that high in the air, watching helicopters fly past you, seeing things from a birds eye view, it’s nothing short of awesome.
When you are done with your ride on the Orlando Eye, you are escorted off of the capsule, and you go into a room where you can view your photos from before the experience. You have the option to purchase them along with a keepsake book. Just past the photo area, is a great gift shop on your way out, full of a wide selection of Orlando Eye souvenirs including coffee mugs and shirts. From start to finish, the experience at the Orlando Eye is something that guests will be thrilled about. It’s like nothing I’ve ever done before, and I’m so glad that I was able to ride the Eye and see it for myself. The Orlando Eye is incredible, and I highly recommend it to people visiting the area. Even locals, if you’re thinking of giving the Eye a try, I say DO it, it’s wonderful!
Thank you so much to John Stine and the team at the Orlando Eye complex for inviting TMSM out to enjoy the experience. We appreciate the months of information and support that they’ve given us. If you want to see our ride on the Eye, click below to watch the Periscope video that we took! Enjoy!
Michele also contributes theme park news for Fox 35 Orlando 11pm news and on the radio on WDBO.
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