Marvel at the Largest Ferris Wheel in the World and Other Famous Giants

Ferris wheels often evoke nostalgia for hometown fairs and theme park vacations. But today’s Ferris wheels are more than carnival rides; they’re global icons of architecture and ambition. The largest Ferris wheel in the world is in Dubai and reaches over 820 feet high, much larger than the first Ferris wheel, which was built in 1893.

While Ferris wheels have always been a thing of the future, they have come a very long way since their beginnings. From the largest Ferris wheels in the world to the most inventive, you can tour the world exploring the most mind-blowing of these amusement attractions. Read on for fascinating Ferris wheel information and a list of the world's largest and most famous offerings.

Ferris Wheel Facts and History

How Does a Ferris Wheel Work?

A Ferris wheel operates using a motorized drive system — typically powered by an electric or hydraulic motor — that rotates the giant vertical wheel mounted on a central axle and supported by a sturdy steel A-frame structure. Passenger cabins are attached in a way that allows them to pivot freely, using gravity to remain upright as the wheel turns. This design ensures a smooth, balanced ride, gently lifting and lowering riders while offering breathtaking views from above.

Large observation wheels, such as the Las Vegas High Roller, rely on advanced environmental control systems to ensure passenger comfort and safety.

Soar Through The Skies

1. Ain Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai is larger than life, so it's fitting that it's home to both the world's tallest building — the Burj Khalifa — and the world's largest Ferris wheel — Ain Dubai. Located on Bluewaters Island — a man-made island and Dubai's premier entertainment hub — the Dubai Ferris wheel opened in October 2021 and sits at 250 meters or about 820 feet high.

From the top of the Ain Dubai, you can take in 360-degree views of Dubai's stunning skyscraper-dense skyline from one of the 48 cabins, which can comfortably fit 40 passengers. Each luxe cabin is equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, air-conditioning and a cocktail bar or mini lounge. For an unforgettable night, you can even book a private cabin. A single trip on Ain Dubai takes 38 minutes, which is plenty of time to soak up the vistas.

2. Eye of Bohai, Weifang, China

The Eye of Bohai in Weifang in China's Shandong Province holds the impressive title of the world's largest spokeless Ferris wheel. It opened in 2017 and sits on the Bailang River Bridge. This marvel needs to be seen to be believed with 4,600 tons of steel creating the kite grid construction system, which allows the 36 carriages to rotate while the Ferris wheel's body remains stationary. One trip on the 145-meter-tall — or 476-foot-tall —Ferris wheel takes 30 minutes. The cabins are equipped with Wi-Fi and individual television sets if the stunning view doesn't meet your expectations.

3. Singapore Flyer, Singapore

The Singapore Flyer is currently ranked third when it comes to the largest Ferris wheel in the world, standing at 165 meters or 541 feet in height. The Singapore Flyer is located in Singapore's vibrant Marina Bay district and has been an iconic part of the city's skyline since 2008. With continuous unobstructed views, its claim to fame is that on a clear day, you can see straight across to Malaysia, the South China Sea and a cluster of Indonesian islands that sit about 28 miles away.

It has also made a few Hollywood appearances, like when it was featured in the hit movie "Crazy Rich Asians." With large, luxe cabins, you can celebrate a special occasion and enjoy a four-course meal while floating through the air.

4. Sun Wheel, Da Nang and Ha Long, Vietnam

The Sun Wheel in Da Nang and the Sun Wheel in Ha Long in Vietnam are two of the country’s most iconic observation Ferris wheels. Located in the heart of Da Nang Downtown, the Da Nang Sun Wheel rises 115 meters into the sky, while the Sun Wheel in Ha Long — located in the Sun World Ha Long Complex — provides panoramic views of Ha Long Bay. This giant wheel is part of Sunworld, an amusement park area accessible by a scenic cable car ride, making the journey as exciting as the destination.

5. High Roller, Las Vegas, United States

At 550 feet tall, Las Vegas' High Roller just beats the Singapore Flyer to be the world's second-tallest Ferris wheel. It also takes the title of North America's largest observation wheel. Open until midnight every night, you can take in the bright lights of the Vegas Strip while enjoying the glow of over 2,000 LED lights illuminating the wheel itself.. A trip in one of its spacious 28 cabins takes 30 minutes. For a unique experience, families can download a self-guided STEM curriculum sheet so kids can learn along the way. Adults can also have fun by hopping onboard a Happy Half Hour cabin and enjoying the open bar for one full rotation.

Soar Above Iconic Landmarks on the Largest Ferris Wheels in the World

6. London Eye, London, United Kingdom

Located in South Bank on the River Thames, the London Eye has about 3 million annual visitors, making it the United Kingdom's most popular paid tourist attraction and perhaps the world's most famous Ferris wheel. It's easy to see why, as you can play eye spy and spot many of London's iconic landmarks, such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, St. Paul's Cathedral and Buckingham Palace, while taking a spin. If you're only in London for a day or two, this is the best way to see all of London's sights.

Known as the world's largest cantilevered observation wheel, the London Ferris Wheel is 135 meters or 443 feet tall. You may hear it often referred to as the Millennium Wheel since it opened in 2000. This Ferris wheel was London's highest viewpoint until the Shard's observation deck superseded it in 2013. The London Eye hosts many one-of-a-kind experiences in its pods, of which there are 32 to represent London's 32 boroughs. One is the Champagne Experience, where your 360-degree views come complete with a glass of bubbly.

7. Wiener Riesenrad, Vienna, Austria

In Vienna, Wiener Riesenrad —or the Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel — is one of the most famous Ferris wheels around the world and is known as the great-grandad of modern-day Ferris wheels. It's been breaking records since its construction in 1897 to honor Emperor Franz Josef I's 50th Jubilee. It's the world's oldest Ferris wheel and held the title of the world's tallest Ferris wheel from 1920 until 1985 before Japan's Technostar stole the crown.

Located in Vienna's popular Prater amusement park — the world's oldest — Wiener Riesenrad began with 30 gondolas. However, after suffering significant damage during World War II, it was rebuilt with only 15. Today, the unique old-fashioned cabins complement the city's elegant flair. As a Vienna trademark, enjoying a historic ride on the 212-foot Riesenrad is a must-do while in Austria's capital.

8. Wonder Wheel, Brooklyn, New York, United States

As far as recognizable Ferris wheels go, the Wonder Wheel has been the iconic symbol of Coney Island since Memorial Day in 1920. Today, it's an official New York City landmark. The 150-foot-tall Wonder Wheel is the namesake attraction inside Deno's Wonder Wheel Park. From the top, you can see across to the breathtaking Manhattan skyline. Fun Ferris wheel fact: Over 40 million people have ridden the Wonder Wheel in the last century.

It's known as an eccentric Ferris wheel, which means that not all of the passenger cabins are fixed directly to the reel and instead move back and forth slowly between the larger outer wheel and smaller inner wheel. If you want to go for a swing, ask for a red or blue car and enjoy the whimsical ride.

9. Pacific Wheel, California, United States

On the other side of the U.S., you'll find Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier in California. With the gorgeous beach as the backdrop, it's one of the Golden State's most iconic destinations, providing passengers with Pacific Ocean views from 40 meters or 130 feet above the pier. At night, more than 174,000 energy-efficient LED lights display vibrant computer-generated illuminated entertainment.

Here’s another fun Ferris wheel fact: the Pacific Wheel is the world's only solar-powered Ferris wheel — the perks of being located in sunny California — and its predecessor was erected in 1996, while this reincarnation popped up in 2008.

Famous Ferris Wheels Highlighting Natural Wonders

10. Niagara SkyWheel, Niagara Falls, Canada

Ferris wheels can give you a new perspective on some of the most incredible natural wonders. Niagara SkyWheel is located in the heart of Clifton Hill on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. Soaring 175-feet above the eighth wonder of the world, you get a front-row seat of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, Niagara River and Niagara Parks from the fully-enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas. A single rotation lasts from eight to 12 minutes, and you can choose to take in the sights during the day or soak up the sparkling Clifton Hill lights in Canada after dark.

11. Cosmo Clock 21, Yokohama, Japan

An integral part of the Yokohama skyline, Cosmo Clock 21 was one of the world's biggest Ferris wheels when it opened to celebrate the 1989 World Fair. Located in the Cosmo World amusement park in the Minato Mirai district of Japan, the Ferris wheel is 369 feet tall and has 60 passenger cars, which can carry up to eight people. One rotation takes 15 minutes, and there is a tablet inside each car that explains the visible landmarks — though Mt Fuji needs no explanation. If you get lucky and visit on a clear day, prepare yourself for how incredible the view is from this famous Ferris wheel.

While you'll want to take in the vistas during the day, come back at night to see the Cosmo Clock beautifully illuminated. Every 15 minutes, the 60 spokes become fireworks, flowers and spirals.

Here are two fun Ferris wheel facts about Cosmos Clock 21: The clock in the middle is the world's largest clock, and it played an essential role in the 1992 film "Godzilla vs. Mothra."

12. Tianjin Eye, Tianjin, China

The Tianjin Eye in China — officially named The Tientsin Eye — opened in 2008 and is built above the Yongle Bridge over the Hai River in Tianjin. This Ferris wheel is 120 meters or 394 feet tall and has 48 passenger capsules that can each hold eight passengers for a 30-minute single rotation.

One of its most appealing features is that passengers in cars crossing the Yongle Bridge and boats cruising along the river often wave to people on the Ferris wheel. You won't find an experience like this anywhere else in the world. And while it appears to be a standard Ferris wheel by day, return at night to see its illuminations dazzling in the reflection of the river below.

13. Big O, Tokyo, Japan

The Big O was the world's first centerless Ferris wheel when it opened in 2006 inside Tokyo Dome City, one of the city's amusement parks. It's 200 feet wide, however, its most fascinating feature and undeniable drawcard is that Thunder Dolphin — the largest roller coaster in Tokyo — passes through the wheel's center while reaching speeds of up to 81 miles per hour. This ride is truly calling all thrill-seekers!

If you don't get distracted by the roller coaster zipping by, you can have a little party onboard using the touchscreen music playlists and karaoke machines available. It's safe to sing your heart out from the comfort of the glass-walled pods like you're in the shower because no one can hear you. The Big O might just take the title of the world's most fun Ferris wheel experience.

Ready To Take a Spin on the Largest Ferris Wheels in the World?