Travel notes, photos, videos, and comments from all over the world. I may earn income from purchases of advertised products or clicking links. Please follow via email. Thanks Geoff Sutton of Sutton Travels blog and YouTube
The London Eye is the tallest observation wheel in Europe. And, it is the most popular tourist attraction in the United Kingdom.
This cantilevered observation wheel is on the south bank of the River Thames in London, England. It stands 443 feet high. Work began in 1998 and it opened to the public in 2000 thus, it is also called the Millennium Wheel.
When it opened, it was the world's tallest Ferris wheel. A few wheels are taller but it remains the world's tallest cantilevered wheel.
The London Eye is between Westminster Bridge and Hungerford Bridge at the western end of Jubilee Gardens within the London Borough of Lambeth.
It's location offers fantastic views of London--depending of course on the weather.
There are 32 capsules -- one for each of London's 32 boroughs.
The capsules are numbered 1-12 and 14- to 33.
A full rotation takes 30 minutes
It was supposed to be temporary but now it is a landmark.
It's the most popular paid tourist attraction in the UK.
I took the hovercraft from Portsmouth to Ryde on the Isle of Wight for the experience. I recommend it as a quick and affordable way to cross the Solent.
The seating was comfortable and the cabin clean.
The staff were friendly and helpful with luggage-- larger items are stowed outside.
Photos and videos are best before or after because there is little to see from the inside cabin with sprayed windows.
Video of Hovercraft taking off
After arriving at Ryde, Isle of Wight, I took this video of the next craft arriving.
On my last day in Portsmouth, I purchased a ticket to the tower, which has great views of the harbour, historic dockyards, and city.
HMS Warrior view from Spinnaker Tower by Geoff W Sutton 2017
If I had it to do over, I would have gone up the tower first to get an overview of the area. Panels around the windows provide local information. There are also touch screens with more information.
I noticed some were reluctant to walk on a portion of one deck, which has a glass floor. But most enjoyed taking a picture looking straight down at the activities below.
Looking down from Spinnaker Tower, Geoff W. Sutton 2017
Video Clip from the Tower
Time of day matters as does sunshine. I went in the afternoon and experienced quite a glare making some views difficult.
Fees vary so check the website. When I went a ticket permitted returns during the same day.
I didn't find the introductory film of much interest.
Gifts are available and there is a restaurant with nice views of the harbour.
Silver Dollar City (SDC) is an 1800s themed amusement park in Branson, Missouri USA. My wife and I have visited the attraction many times since 1972.
You will find the most recent schedule of rides, shows, and other attractions on their website. Despite it's old-time theme, SDC stays current by adding new rides--including some serious coasters. You can also download the SDC app for current showtimes and waiting times on rides.
Here's a brief look at The Outlaw Run coaster- I took this after my ride 27 November 2016.
A new and exciting ride is Time Traveler, which I rode several times since this video from 9 October 2018.
The shows vary with the season so if you frequent the area, you will profit from a season pass to see different shows. On a one time visit, I'd recommend Christmas- the lights are spectacular and the productions of It's a Wonderful Life and A Christmas Carolare well done.
SDC is clearly a family-friendly place. There are separate areas for children's rides and activities. Also, many shows are either child-friendly or designed specifically with children in mind.
One unique attraction for an amusement park is a guided tour underground through Marvel Cave. This is an old photo (1980) but tours still go on.
In keeping with the 1800s theme you will find a candy maker (free samples), glass blower, blacksmith, carpenter, and many more.
Here's a video of an old lathe.
At Christmas time there are two special program events that draw a big crowd near the Christmas tree. The tree lights pulse to Christmas tunes at 5:00 pm for a fifteen minute show and nearby you will see a parade (weather permitting) at 6:00 pm. These events are repeated later. We recently went on a Sunday and the park hours were 1:00 to 9:00 pm. Check online for daily openings and hours.
Here's a video clip showing part of the "tree" show.
About the park- Ratings where 10 is high.
Coasters 8-9; The best are: Outlaw Run a "woodie" (68 mpr) and Wildfire (66 mph), Powder Keg (64 mph)
Food = 6-7- smells great and many items taste good for theme park fare
Food and Drink Prices = 5 - Expensive for the area
Restrooms 8- clean, well-stocked
Shows-hard to rate because they vary in quality, length, and each person has a different taste. Some are worth a 9-10 rating for sure e.g., It's a Wonderful Life.
Nearby Attractions: Many shows and additional activities in Branson Missouri. www.branson.com
Website = http://www.silverdollarcity.com
SDC App = http://www.silverdollarcity.com/theme-park/Guest-Services/Mobile-App
Tips Lines can be very long on weekends and holidays so choose alternate days if you can.
If you go often, you can purchase a drink mug and save money on refills.
You can bring your own food and drinks into the park. Picnic tables are scattered throughout. Tip- No glass containers or alcohol. Parking is free as are shuttle rides to the main entrance. There is a fee to park near the entrance.
Changing and nursing stations are available.
Strollers can be rented onsite.
You can enter early for breakfast at 8:30 on open days.
