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Remembering the Skyride at the Seattle World’s Fair

It still lives on in Puyallup

The Seattle World's Fair Skyride gondola seen in 1962.

The Skyride was one of the most popular attractions at the 1962 World’s Fair.

Photo via Seattle Municipal Archives

Excuse us if we have our heads in the clouds a bit. As part of our monthly Seattle World’s Fair flashbacks, we’re reminiscing about the Union 76 Skyride. 🚠

The 55-foot-high aerial tram took visitors on a slowww ride across the fairgrounds to the International Mall in 1962. It proved so popular that the gondola stuck around for two more decades before it was sold to the Puyallup Fair in 1980. Awww, we love it when cities share.

Chances are, you may have hopped on the old timer if you went to the state fair earlier this month. But never fear — the Swiss-made contraption is said to be so well made, it should last for years to come.

For true gondola-crazed fans, Mount Rainier National Park has its own version, offering spectacular views at 2,400 vertical feet. 🏔️

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