Photo by Jen Carlson
Not a fan of Valentine's Day? Then welcome to Ferris Wheel Day! Also celebrated on February 14th, and held in honor of American engineer and inventor George Ferris (who was born on this day in 1859). As you may have guessed, Ferris is the reason we've got a Wonder Wheel in Coney Island—he invented the amusement ride for the Columbian Exposition in Chicago, in 1893.
The Wonder Wheel was built in 1918, opening two years later... and while this absolutely balmy 50-degree weather is a great excuse to go pay it a visit, it's not open again until April. (Here's a little tune to accompany that news.) According to NYC City Map blog, however, Toys ‘R’ Us in Times Square has an indoor Ferris Wheel (they do!)—so you can go take your celebratory spin there.
