The Italian-made, 132-foot Spectrum SunWheel marks an exciting new era for the premier shopping, dining, and entertainment center in Southern California
IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Irvine Spectrum Center welcomes the community to celebrate the grand opening of the all-new Spectrum SunWheel from 10a.m. on Saturday, September 19. The reimagined attraction takes immersive experiences to new heights, reaching 132 feet tall — 24 feet taller than its predecessor — providing stunning views above the heart of the popular lifestyle epicenter.
The Spectrum SunWheel now takes residence in the former site of Irvine Spectrum Center’s Giant Wheel, which originally opened in 2002. Manufactured by Italy-based Fabbri Group, which has created observation wheels for a variety of international destinations, the Spectrum SunWheel introduces several key features. In addition to increased height, the major attraction includes 27 gondolas that comfortably seat up to six passengers, an enhanced in-gondola audio system, dazzling programmable LED technology with rim and spoke lighting, and improved ride operations designed to reduce wait times.
“The Spectrum SunWheel represents Irvine Spectrum Center’s commitment to providing extraordinary experiences for all ages,” says Blake Windal, vice president and general manager. “Both visitors and the local community have shared special memories of rides over the last 24 years, and our goal for this modern attraction is to cultivate new, treasured memories for generations to come.”
The Grand Opening will be held on Saturday, September 19 beginning with a Ribbon Cutting at 9:45 a.m. in addition to live music, DJs and giveaways celebrating the occasion. Courtesy of Hoag, the first 300 riders will receive complimentary admission.
Admission: $10 (General); $15 (Spectrum Speed Pass); Guests must be at least 63 inches tall or 12 years old to ride the Spectrum SunWheel alone. Guests who do not meet these requirements must be accompanied by a responsible rider who does.
Irvine Spectrum Center is located at 670 Spectrum Center Dr., Irvine, CA 92618. Hours: Sunday — Thursday, 10 a.m. — 9 p.m., Friday — Saturday, 10 a.m. — 10 p.m.
About Irvine Spectrum Center
As the centerpiece of Irvine Spectrum District, Irvine Spectrum Center is an open-air shopping, dining and lifestyle destination inspired by the youthful energy of Southern California. With a memorable collection of exclusive experiences, trend-forward retailers, as well as dining and entertainment for all ages, Irvine Spectrum Center is where friends, family and colleagues from Orange County and beyond come to explore and discover together. Prominent retailers include Nordstrom, Apple, Lululemon, Vuori, TravisMathew, Fabletics, Free People, Lip Lab, Anthropologie, Target and Sephora. Diverse and acclaimed dining include Javier’s, Habana, Mastro’s Ocean Club, Din Tai Fung, La La Land, Little Sister, Hello Kitty Cafe and Fogo de Chao. The center also features a variety of entertainment, including the innovative 132-foot Spectrum SunWheel, Holey Moley Golf Club and the first U.S. location of Hijinx Hotel, the country’s most popular Improv Comedy Club, as well as the country’s leading and globally recognized Regal Spectrum 21 RPX & IMAX. For more information, please visit IrvineSpectrumCenter.com.
About Irvine Company Retail Properties
Since opening its first neighborhood retail center in 1963, Irvine Company Retail Properties has created a renowned portfolio of retail destinations throughout coastal California featuring three distinguished regional centers – Fashion Island, Irvine Spectrum Center and The Market Place – and a diverse collection of more than 40 neighborhood and community centers. Irvine Company’s retail destinations are noted for their exceptional locations, open-air ambiance and trend-forward collection of retailers and dining experiences. For additional information, please visit IrvineCompanyRetail.com.
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SOURCE Irvine Company Retail Properties
