10 of most famous Ferris wheels in the world
China - Japan - Singapore - Taiwan - United States - London - Dubai -
In 1893, inventor George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. designed and built the first Ferris wheel for the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, celebrating the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's discovery of the New World. Historically, the wheel reached a height of about 80 meters above ground level and featured 36 air-conditioned cabins capable of accommodating over 50 people. The invention of the Ferris wheel at that time was a technological and engineering marvel, generating significant global excitement.
Today, the Ferris wheel has become one of the most famous tourist attractions in the world, leading major countries to compete in innovating sophisticated designs to distinguish themselves from others.
Dubai Eye
Dubai, known for the Burj Khalifa, introduced another innovation to its skyline with the Dubai Eye, the world's tallest observation wheel. Opened in October 2021 to complement the Expo 2020 festivities, the wheel sits on an artificial island and consists of 48 capsules, each accommodating up to 1,750 passengers. A complete rotation takes approximately 38 minutes, offering breathtaking views of Dubai's coast, the Marina skyline, and iconic landmarks such as the Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, and Burj Khalifa.
The High Roller
A prominent attraction in Las Vegas, The High Roller is a towering observation wheel that opened in 2014. Each of its cabins can hold up to 40 passengers. Formerly holding the title of the world's largest observation wheel, it was surpassed by the Dubai Eye.
The Star of Nanchang
Located in Nanchang, China, this wheel boasts 60 cabins accommodating eight people each, providing panoramic views of the city and Jian River. It offers a unique experience, especially at night when it lights up beautifully.
Singapore Flyer
The Singapore Flyer is one of the famous tourist destinations in Singapore, offering splendid views of the city and its surrounding landscapes. Located strategically, it allows you to see the financial district and the national stadium. Each capsule on the wheel accommodates up to 28 people, and you can also book a private cabin. It rotates slowly to give you the chance to enjoy the views and capture wonderful photos. Don't forget to visit the wheel at night, where it shines with enchanting illumination, adding a special charm to the place.
The Kaohsiung Eye
The Kaohsiung Eye, located in the city of Kaohsiung in Taiwan, is one of the prominent tourist attractions in the city. The wheel offers a unique experience for visitors to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and its landmarks from a height of about 126 meters. It consists of 36 cabins, each accommodating 8 people, providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Redhorse Osaka
The Redhorse Osaka wheel is one of the unforgettable places in Japan. Each of its 72 cabins features a transparent glass floor, creating a sensation of floating in the air. Being the largest Ferris wheel in Japan, it offers panoramic views, especially when illuminated at night, adding a touch of magic. If you enjoy puzzles and challenges, the 2.0 experience offers you the opportunity to solve exciting puzzles during an 18-minute circular journey.
London Eye
The London Eye, located on the banks of the River Thames in London, is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in the United Kingdom, offering panoramic views of London from a 360-degree angle. Since its opening in 2000, it has become a must-visit destination for tourists. Each of the 32 capsules in the wheel can accommodate up to 25 people. Additionally, private bookings are available for groups to enjoy the enchanting views of London's key landmarks such as the Parliament building, the Whitehall, the Embankment station, and St. Paul's Cathedral.
The Bailang River Bridge
Unlike other Ferris wheels on our list, the Bailang River Bridge wheel does not have any rotating wheels! Instead, it is a large circle with 36 cabins around the edge, earning it the nickname "Dragon Column." It is also known as the "Bohai Sea Eye," overlooking a river that flows into the Bohai Sea. Each cabin of the wheel accommodates ten people. What sets it apart from others is that its cabins rotate around the wheel instead of the wheel rotating on air-filled wheels during a 30-minute journey. Therefore, we recommend visiting it at night, where the lights on the wheel itself are stunning, and daytime views are no less beautiful, as it is stunning at all times.
The Bay Glory
The Bay Glory Wheel opened in Shenzhen in 2021 and has not disappointed visitors since then. People from all over the world come to enjoy the green spaces and pathways while exploring the vibrant city of Shenzhen. When they decide to ride the Bay Glory Wheel, they are treated to a stunning view of Chiwan Bay and the skyline. It consists of 28 cabins, each accommodating up to 25 passengers. To enjoy a hassle-free experience and avoid boring wait times, we recommend purchasing tickets in advance to avoid crowds and ensure easy access to the wheel.
The Wheel at Icon Park
Despite Orlando already offering some of the most exciting tourist attractions in the United States, they decided to add a 400-foot Ferris wheel to the wonderful mix of entertainment available in Florida's Orange County. Located at the "ICON Park" amusement park, it features 30 cabins, each accommodating 15 people. The single journey takes 18 minutes and showcases light shows at night. After enjoying the sights, you can visit other attractions at ICON such as the Orlando Sea Life Aquarium, the Museum of Illusions, the Game Center, and Madame Tussauds Museum.
