Capital Wheel ready to soar over D.C. (Photos)

348191 FILE -- The Capital Wheel is one of the many attractions at National Harbor. (WTOP/Andrew Mollenbeck, File)
The prices for rides on the Capital Wheel. (WTOP/Andrew Mollenbeck)
At dusk, the lights on the Capital Wheel are switched on. (WTOP/Andrew Mollenbeck)
The Capital Wheel consists of 42 gondolas that can carry six people each. (WTOP/Andrew Mollenbeck)
Some of the first to ride the Capital Wheel wave as they board.
The Capital Wheel stands out at night along the Potomac River waterfront. (WTOP/Andrew Mollenbeck)
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WASHINGTON — You can get a new perspective on Washington Friday morning as the Capital Wheel at National Harbor opens to the public.

The wheel takes 42 gondolas 180 feet into the air, giving riders a mini-tour of the region over the Potomac River waterfront.

Military families were among the first to get a ride on the wheel at a sneak preview Thursday night, and reviews ran from “absolutely spectacular” to amazing.

Developer Milt Peterson says the wheel fills a need in the District.

“Washington is very serious; Washington is fabulous; it’s very cultural. But there aren’t many things that are fun — especially for the kids.”

Rides on the wheel will cost $15.

WTOP’s Andrew Mollenbeck contributed to this report. Follow @WTOP on Twitter and WTOP on Facebook.

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