Location: Interstate 94, Allen Park, MI
Category: Landmark | Roadside Attraction | Automotive Heritage
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5 based on 1,000+ reviews)
Overview
The Uniroyal Giant Tire stands 80 feet tall along I-94 in Allen Park and is one of Metro Detroit’s most recognizable roadside attractions. Originally built as a Ferris wheel for the 1964–65 New York World’s Fair, it carried over 2 million passengers before being relocated to Michigan in 1966.
Historical Significance
Designed by Hardesty & Hanover and Shreve, Lamb & Harmon—the same firm behind the Empire State Building—the tire is made of fiberglass and steel, anchored in 24 feet of concrete. It was reassembled outside Uniroyal’s Midwest headquarters and has since become a symbol of Detroit’s automotive strength and industrial legacy.
Modern Enhancements
Over the years, the tire has undergone several renovations, including neon lighting, a giant nail to promote Uniroyal’s NailGard tire, and structural upgrades as part of Detroit’s I-94 corridor revitalization. It remains a quirky and beloved landmark for locals and visitors alike.
Nearby Attractions
Tips for Visitors
- Best time to visit: Daylight hours for best visibility and photo ops.
- Accessibility: Viewable from I-94; parking available nearby.
- Fun Fact: The tire was once a Ferris wheel at the World’s Fair!
