Major expansion announced for Niagara SkyWheel to boost local tourism

HOCO Limited has announced a major expansion to the Niagara SkyWheel, increasing its height to around 76 metres and making it the largest observation wheel in Canada.

The SkyWheel on Clifton Hill in Niagara Falls is over 20 years old and is already around 53 metres tall.

HOCO Limited says the expanded SkyWheel will help further strengthen Niagara Falls’ reputation as one of Canada’s main tourism destinations and enhance its appeal to visitors from around the world.

This project represents a major investment in the future of Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls and the broader Niagara region.

Beyond creating a new landmark attraction, the expansion will also help drive increased visitation, encourage longer stay and generate economic benefits that extend beyond the SkyWheel itself.

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Those who will benefit from this increased activity include hotels, restaurants, retailers, attractions, transportation providers and local businesses.

“It’s probably a good idea for a refresh and I think having someone — an operator like Harry Oakes was a real statesman, he’s a true pioneer in tourism,” said Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati.

“I believe the idea of him building Canada’s biggest ferris wheel in Niagara Falls on his own private property is a brilliant idea.”

Investing and expanding Niagara tourism is part of the province’s Destination Niagara strategy, a multi-billion-dollar plan to transform Niagara into a world-class tourism hub, with the aim of attracting 25 million visitors annually and hopefully doubling the region’s tourism impact.

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