San Antonio Moves Forward on Massive 200-Foot “Grandísimo” Observation Wheel in St. Paul Square

SAN ANTONIO, TX — The city has taken a major step toward welcoming a new signature attraction: a 213-foot observation wheel called Grandísimo, set to rise in St. Paul Square on the East Side. Conceptual approval granted by the Historic and Design Review Commission (HDRC) on June 16 now clears the way for detailed design and development.

🎢 From Vision to Approval

The ride—featuring 42 air-conditioned gondolas—will offer sweeping views of downtown, the Alamodome, and the East Side skyline. The Grandísimo is part of a larger entertainment complex planned by Icon Experiences, including:

• A mini-golf course adorned with local art

• A classic carousel

• A food hall dubbed “Grub‑isimo”

• A central event plaza for dining and community gatherings

Developers plan to purchase a 1.3‑acre parking lot near Gonzales Street and Hoefgen Avenue, adjacent to a future 400-space parking garage envisioned to support the district’s growth.

🏛️ Why St. Paul Square?

Earlier proposals to locate the attraction near the Alamo were abandoned after the Alamo Trust raised concerns about obstructing historic sightlines. The new site sits outside the city’s protected viewshed and falls in line with current zoning standards.

HDRC members emphasized compatibility with St. Paul Square’s architectural character and pedestrian orientation. Commissioner Gabriel Velasquez noted that the wheel evokes the city’s Hemisfair era and supports a vision of a more vibrant, playful downtown.

🌆 Revitalizing the East Side

The project is part of a broader effort—Project Marvel—to activate St. Paul Square as a lively entertainment district. Recent investments include restaurants, cocktail lounges, and unique venues like Atlee’s Rally and El Tigre Coffee Roasters, helping push neighborhood occupancy above 80%.

Centro San Antonio CEO Trish DeBerry praised Grandísimo as a tourist magnet and an anchor for continued downtown development, stressing that no public funds will be used for construction.

📅 What’s Next

Icon Experiences must still submit final plans—detailed in materials, textures, signage, and lighting—for HDRC approval before construction begins. The developers expect to launch the experience in 2026, positioning Grandísimo as part of San Antonio’s evolving entertainment landscape.

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