RSVP For FREE Ferris Wheel Rides for Route 66 Day

Published on May 31, 2026

A Pier to Pier Centennial: Celebrating Route 66 with Free Rides on the Pacific Wheel

Two of America’s most historic landmarks are coming together for a rare coast-to-coast celebration.

On Saturday, June 6, 2026 (6/6/26), the Santa Monica Pier and Chicago’s Navy Pier will unite to honor the Centennial anniversary of Route 66—the legendary highway that has connected generations of travelers from the Great Lakes to the Pacific Ocean.

To mark this historic “Pier to Pier” connection, Pacific Park will offer complimentary rides on the world-famous Pacific Wheel for exactly 66 minutes starting at 10am PDT, while the Navy Pier in Chicago will offer complimentary rides on it’s Centennial Wheel at 10am local time.

Event Details

The cross-country celebration begins simultaneously on both piers on the morning of June 6.

• Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026

• Time: 10:00 AM to 11:06 AM (Local Time)

• Location: The Pacific Wheel at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier

Please RSVP for your free ride by filling the form out below and subscribing to Pacific Park’s newsletter.

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How to Attend

Because the complimentary riding window lasts for exactly 66 minutes, planning ahead is highly recommended.

1. RSVP Online: Submit your information via the form above.

2. Redeem at the Park: Skip the ticket booth and head straight to the queue line for the Pacific Wheel upon arrival. Complimentary rides will be given until 11:06 am.

Please note that complimentary tickets are limited and will only be distributed until 11:06am. If you miss the window, regular individual ride tickets and Unlimited Ride Wristbands will be available for purchase throughout the day.

The Historic Connection Between Two Piers

Route 66 has always symbolized adventure, discovery, and the classic American road trip. While the Santa Monica Pier has long been celebrated as the legendary western “End of the Trail,” Chicago’s Navy Pier was recently designated as the highway’s official symbolic eastern gateway.

This Centennial event celebrates the shared history, nostalgia, and timeless excitement of these two coastal endpoints.

Beyond the Pacific Wheel—the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel—guests visiting the park can experience the historic route in a few unique ways:

• The Route 66 West Coaster: A roller coaster featuring vintage gas pumps, classic license plates, and ride vehicles inspired by classic American touring cars.

• Photo Opportunities: Capture memories at the nostalgic “End of the Trail” sign or at Pacific Park’s two dedicated Route 66 photo spots.

Whether you are a local resident or a traveler tracing the historic highway, we invite you to join us on June 6 to celebrate a century of connection.

Photo credit: Santa Monica Travel & Tourism