Wheel Park

 

Welcome to St Louis Union Station

Home to the newly named Wheel Park

The park originally opened with the St Louis Wheel, a giant observation wheel that soars over the Union Station canopies

In addition to the Wheel there was a Carousel and a Mini Golf course

This summer, the park began an aggressive expansion plan that saw three new Zamperla rides added to the park, along with Carnival rides and a few additional amenities. 

The first ride you encounter on this new park spur is the Wave Carousel

Next is the Flying Louie, a giant rocking ship

Finally, the third ride in this new addition - and the newest roller coaster in the state of Missouri, the LOCO MOTION

The LOCO MOTION is a family spinner coaster

The front cart of the 4 car train is themed to a railroad steam engine and the other three carts are passenger coaches.  The carts can free spin during the ride creating a different experience every time you ride

While the layout might be short in length, currently they are sending the train around for 3 laps

The new additions opened to the public over the Labor Day holiday and appear to be a major hit with visitors.  We imagine that this area will be quite busy on days when STL City has a home game

Wheel Park - Construction Update

 

Time to check in on the progress being made at the expansion to the Union Station park.  Notice in the concept art they have posted you can see a wave swinger, rocking ship and a rollercoaster.

Let's focus on the rollercoaster first.  It appears that they have completed the installation of the actual ride.  The track is complete and they have the ride carriages on the track

As should be no surprise, the ride carriages are themed to a train.  The first cart is the "engine" and the other four carts are themed to passenger cars.

In addition, it can now be confirmed that this will be a spinning coaster.  The ride carriages will begin with two guests seated forward and two more seated backwards on each cart.

The lift will be driven by tires, which means this coaster will not operate in wet conditions

Here is the lift hill in its entirety and you can see the winding path the ride takes after completing the lift just past it.

From the other side of the construction site you can see that the "first drop" is sort of a meandering incline that goes into a helix

After the helix it goes around this bend and then back into the station

Here you can see the changes in elevation as it goes through the course.  In the foreground you can see footers for the entrance or exit pathway to the station

Another look (in the distance) at the layout.  Not sure what the pipes are for in the foreground

The open section on the left is possibly where the rocking ship will go.  It is not currently on site

The wave swinger, however, is in the process of being constructed

The wave swinger is located at the entrance to the park coming off the street leading to Energizer Park - home to St. Louis City Soccer Club

One last photo of parts awaiting installation on the wave swinger.  In the background you can see the rollercoaster.  The park expansion is said to open sometime this summer

Wheel Park - Construction Update

 

Construction has finally started on the expansion to the ride park at STL Union Station

Banners on the construction fence show concept art and state that it will open this Summer

Union Station St. Louis - New for 2025

Union Station St. Louis Announces New Amusement Rides for 2025

St. Louis, Missouri -- Union Station announces new amusement rides are set open in time for Memorial Day Weekend 2025.  The new attractions will be situated adjacent to the iconic St. Louis Wheel on the south end of Union Station, within the vibrant Wheel Park area, which already boasts popular attractions such as the Carousel and Mini Golf course.

MINI SPINNING COASTER

A thrilling coaster, themed as a train, celebrates the rich railway heritage of St. Louis Union Station. This ride promises to deliver twists, turns, and fun for the whole family. The coaster reaches a height of 22 feet and has 16 seats. 

PIRATE SHIP

A classic amusement ride that will take guests on a swashbuckling adventure, swinging high above the park and offering spectacular views. The Pirate Ship ride will stand at 48 feet 6 inches high and has 42 seats

WAVE SWINGER

An exciting swing ride themed to pay homage to the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, this ride will elevate guests to new heights with a thrilling and breezy experience perfect for all ages. The Wave Swinger will be 43 feet 6 inches high and seats 64

MIDWAY GAMES

Complementing these new attractions, a selection of classic carnival games will be introduced, enhancing the nostalgic, family-friendly atmosphere of the Wheel Park. Guests can test their skills and win prizes in a variety of games

CONCESSIONS

To complete the experience, new concession booths will offer a range of fan-favorite snacks and treats. From classic carnival fare to sweet indulgences, there will be something to satisfy every craving as visitors explore the expanded entertainment area.