Downtown Salt Lake City doesn't have the only skycrapers in Utah.
The latest high-rise to grace the Wasatch Front landscape is already a landmark for those driving through the middle of Davis County. It's the giant "observation wheel" that is nearing completion at the north end of the Lagoon midway.Dubbed "The Skyscraper," it will be an even bigger attention-grabber at night than it has been during the daylight hours. When it's finished (in time for Lagoon's opening weekend on April 20) it should be glowing with more than 180,000 programmable lights, which will create a fantastic light show - sort of like a 15-story kaleidoscope.
Lagoon's newest ride, manufactured in Holland and transported to the site in 13 semi-trailers, is capable of carrying 216 passengers. The huge wheel has 36 gondolas, each big enough for six people.
According to Ron Van Woerden, director of entertainment for Lagoon & Pioneer Village, the ride is engineered to withstand hurricane-force winds. Its value has been set at about $1.5 million.
"With the introduction of the Skyscraper, Lagoon continues its commitment to bring Utah families the finest in entertainment," said Van Woerden. "Where else can the guest be lifted, hurdled, dropped and flung through 39 rides in the morning, enjoy the sun, splash and spills of a beach during the afternoon at Lagoon A Beach (opening May 11), then, at day's end, enjoy the magic of song and dance?"
Preseason weekends will feature Summer Rhythm, the resort's popular rock 'n' roll band, and the exciting Wild West Shootout in Pioneer Village.
Lagoon is currently offering its Season Passport. This summer, the all-day passport will include admission to the park, unlimited rides, Pioneer Village, live entertainment and Lagoon A Beach, all for one low price.
The park's daily all-day passes also have been lowered in price and will include Lagoon A Beach, which previously required a separate admission, as part of the daylong package.
Weather permitting, Lagoon will open Saturday, April 20, at 11 a.m., with daily operation scheduled to begin on May 25.