St. Louis Union Station’s iconic St. Louis Wheel will be joined next month by three new ride companions at the entertainment center’s outdoor Wheel Park.
Inspired by themes that range from pirates to the 1904 World’s Fair, Union Station’s (1820 Market) new attractions are designed to get the whole family, especially the older kids, excited for a day downtown. The following rides were developed by Icon Experiences and complement the Wheel, carousel, and miniature golf course to complete Wheel Park’s makeup.
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Flying Louie
Stomach butterflies are sure to come out in full force on this swinging, pirate ship-themed adventure of a ride. The 42-seater Flying Louie shows off views of the city in between its dips and rises, which Union Station representatives say are destined to delight guests. Riders who are 48 inches tall and above are free to ride solo, while 42 inches tall is the minimum height to ride with an adult.
Loco Motion
Although Union Station’s heyday as a national railway hub may be well in the rearview, this family-friendly roller coaster helps ensure the next generation won’t forget the station’s history. Reaching a height of 22 feet, the train-themed Loco Motion provides gentle twists and turns to thrill guests of all ages. Riders must be at least 42 inches tall to go solo, or at least 36 inches tall to ride while accompanied by an adult.
Wave Swinger
Decorated in themes from the famed 1904 World’s Fair, this classic swing ride spins 25 feet above the earth in an exhilarating frenzy. Riders must be at least 42 inches tall to take on the Wave Swinger with an adult, or 48 inches tall to go at it alone.
Further expanding on the festive theme at Wheel Park, guests will be able to test their skills and vie for prizes in the venue’s numerous carnival games after sampling the new rides.
The new features come as yet another round of enhancements to bolster the once-again thriving Union Station. Beginning with the opening of the St. Louis Wheel and St. Louis Aquarium in 2019, the area has firmly established itself as one of the city’s premier family attractions, complete with rides, dining, and even a touring show from the Purina Incredible Dog Team.
“We’re excited to bring more family fun to St. Louis Union Station’s visitors,” Brian O’Loughlin, vice president of Union Station’s owner, Lodging Hospitality Management, said in a news release. “These rides expand the variety of things to enjoy when visiting so our guests can stay at the hotel and play, dine and enjoy all St. Louis has to offer from their base at Union Station.”
The revamped Wheel Park opens up Thursday, August 28, just in time to celebrate the end of summer on Labor Day weekend. Rides will be open from 10 a.m.–10 p.m., and can be accessed via individual tickets or combination tickets that offer admission to other Union Station attractions.
