If you ever happen to be driving east along I-94 through Allen Park just by the Metro Airport you might come across one of the world's largest roadside attractions - a huge tire. Heading back from Taylor this weekend, I finally managed to quickly grab a drive by photograph!
Located near Detroit, the Uniroyal Giant Tire stands 80 feet high (about 8 stories high) and was originally created as a Ferris wheel for the 1964/1965 New York World Fair. With each ride in any of the 24 gonadlas costing 25c and lasting 10 minutes, the tire Ferris wheel was enjoyed by over 2 million people.
Back in it's former life as a Ferris Wheel at the 1964/1965 New York World's Fair. Source.
After the fair closed the tire was dissembled into over 180 pieces, the
gondolas removed and the tire was relocated to the Uniroyal sales office
in Detroit to be displayed as a static roadside attraction, paying
homage to the automotive history. For me the first mention I ever heard of Detroit was in geography lessons - Detroit built it's wealth and fortune upon the automotive industry, with Henry Ford's thirst for innovation refining the production line and mass assembly. With these methods adopted by Ford's rivals, and part suppliers establishing themselves in the city, many car manufactures based their headquarters in the Detroit, the Motor City.
Weighting 12 tons, the worlds largest tire is built to withstand hurricane strength winds and while it's changed it's name and had a new hub cap over the years it's still standing strong. You certainly won't miss it if you're ever in these parts!
Looking for the Uniroyal Tire?
You'll find it eastbound on I-94 between Southfield Freeway and Outer Drive.
What's the best roadside attraction you've ever spotted?
