Ferris wheels have fascinated people for decades, towering over cities and offering stunning panoramic views from above. From iconic landmarks like the London Eye to the record-breaking Ain Dubai, these massive structures aren’t just thrilling rides—they’re symbols of engineering achievement and city pride. Each Ferris wheel on this list stands out for its impressive height, unique design, or scenic location, attracting tourists and locals alike. Whether built for urban skylines or scenic waterfronts, the world’s largest Ferris wheels showcase creative architecture and offer an unforgettable experience.
Ain Dubai (Dubai, UAE)
Ain Dubai, the tallest Ferris wheel in the world, towers at a staggering 820 feet (250 meters). Located on Bluewaters Island, this record-breaking marvel offers panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline, including landmarks like the Burj Khalifa. Opened in 2021, it surpasses all other Ferris wheels in height, attracting tourists from around the globe. The wheel has 48 luxurious, air-conditioned capsules that can each accommodate up to 40 passengers. Not only is Ain Dubai a feat of engineering, but it also features LED lighting for spectacular nighttime visuals. The ride lasts about 38 minutes, giving passengers ample time to take in the sights. Truly, Ain Dubai embodies modern luxury and innovation in a single structure.
High Roller (Las Vegas, USA)
Reaching a height of 550 feet (168 meters), the High Roller in Las Vegas claims the title of the largest Ferris wheel in the Western Hemisphere. Situated on the Las Vegas Strip, it offers sweeping views of the city’s iconic skyline. Opened in 2014, this wheel quickly became a must-see attraction, inviting visitors to experience Vegas from a unique vantage point. The High Roller features 28 glass-enclosed cabins, each capable of holding up to 40 people, making it ideal for social gatherings and private events. Each rotation takes about 30 minutes, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the experience. Equipped with interactive video and music, the cabins provide a dynamic ride. The High Roller truly adds a new dimension to Vegas nightlife.
Star of Nanchang (Nanchang, China)
Standing tall at 525 feet (160 meters), the Star of Nanchang held the title of the world’s tallest Ferris wheel from 2006 until 2008. Located in Nanchang, China, this massive structure is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. It boasts 60 spacious capsules, each capable of seating eight passengers for a comfortable, scenic ride. A full rotation takes approximately 30 minutes, offering ample time to admire Nanchang’s cityscape. Opened during a period of rapid growth in China’s tourism industry, the Star of Nanchang has become an iconic symbol of the city. At night, the wheel is illuminated with colorful lights, creating a mesmerizing visual display. This Ferris wheel remains one of the largest in Asia.
London Eye (London, UK)
The London Eye, with a height of 443 feet (135 meters), is one of the most iconic Ferris wheels globally, providing spectacular views of London. Built to celebrate the new millennium, it has become one of the UK’s most popular tourist attractions. It offers views of landmarks such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace. The wheel features 32 capsules, each representing one of London’s boroughs, with each capsule able to hold up to 25 passengers. A complete rotation takes around 30 minutes, giving riders a leisurely view of the city. The London Eye is also famous for its role in various films and TV shows. Even after more than two decades, it remains a beloved symbol of London.
Redhorse Osaka Wheel (Osaka, Japan)
The Redhorse Osaka Wheel stands at 404 feet (123 meters) and is the tallest Ferris wheel in Japan. Situated at Expo City in Osaka, it offers an impressive view of the surrounding cityscape and nearby mountains. Opened in 2016, this Ferris wheel has unique glass floors in each capsule, creating an exhilarating experience for thrill-seekers. The wheel has 72 capsules, each of which can accommodate six people for a comfortable, air-conditioned ride. With its distinct lighting and modern design, the Osaka Wheel is a prime example of Japan’s innovative approach to attractions. A full rotation takes about 18 minutes, giving passengers just the right amount of time to enjoy the sights. This Ferris wheel continues to draw tourists eager to experience Osaka from new heights.
Melbourne Star (Melbourne, Australia)
Melbourne Star, at 394 feet (120 meters), is the only Ferris wheel of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Located in the Docklands area of Melbourne, it opened in 2008 and provides stunning views of the city skyline and Port Phillip Bay. The wheel has 21 spacious, air-conditioned cabins, each capable of holding up to 20 passengers. Known for its colorful LED lighting, the Melbourne Star creates a beautiful spectacle at night. The ride lasts around 30 minutes, allowing visitors to relax and soak in the scenery. With its unique star shape when viewed from above, this Ferris wheel is easily recognizable. The Melbourne Star stands as a landmark of the city and an essential stop for visitors.
Tianjin Eye (Tianjin, China)
The Tianjin Eye stands at 394 feet (120 meters), distinguishing itself as one of the few Ferris wheels built on a bridge. Constructed in 2007, it straddles the Hai River, creating an eye-catching landmark for visitors and locals alike. This Ferris wheel features 48 capsules, each designed to hold up to eight passengers comfortably. A full rotation takes about 30 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy views of Tianjin’s skyline. At night, the wheel is lit up, reflecting beautifully on the river below and adding to its charm. The Tianjin Eye has become an iconic structure in China, symbolizing the city’s growth and innovation. Its unique location on a bridge sets it apart from other Ferris wheels worldwide.
Bay Glory (Shenzhen, China)
Reaching 420 feet (128 meters), Bay Glory opened in 2021 in the vibrant city of Shenzhen. Located on the waterfront, it offers panoramic views of the Qianhai Bay area and the city skyline. This modern Ferris wheel features 28 cabins, each designed to hold 25 passengers with transparent walls for optimal sightseeing. A full rotation takes 30 minutes, giving riders plenty of time to marvel at the urban landscape. It’s equipped with advanced LED lighting that adds an impressive glow to the bay at night. Shenzhen’s Bay Glory quickly became popular among locals and tourists alike. Its coastal setting and height make it a striking addition to the list of the world’s tallest Ferris wheels.
Sky Dream (Taichung, Taiwan)
Sky Dream, measuring 410 feet (125 meters), is the tallest Ferris wheel in Taiwan. Located in Taichung’s Lihpao Land amusement park, it offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Opened in 2017, it has 60 spacious capsules, each of which can seat up to eight passengers. The ride lasts about 25 minutes, allowing guests to take in the scenery at a relaxed pace. At night, it is illuminated with bright LED lights, creating a dazzling spectacle against the night sky. Sky Dream has become one of the most popular attractions in Taiwan, drawing locals and tourists alike. Its height and scenic views make it a memorable experience for all who ride.
Suzhou Ferris Wheel (Suzhou, China)
The Suzhou Ferris Wheel reaches 394 feet (120 meters) and is located along the shores of Jinji Lake in Suzhou. Opened in 2009, it provides an impressive view of the city’s modern skyline and the scenic lake area. It has 60 capsules, each capable of holding up to six passengers. The ride takes about 30 minutes to complete a full rotation, giving riders ample time to appreciate the surroundings. At night, the wheel lights up in various colors, adding to the lake’s tranquil ambiance. As one of Suzhou’s notable landmarks, it attracts both locals and tourists year-round. The Suzhou Ferris Wheel offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban scenery.
Yokohama Cosmo Clock 21 (Yokohama, Japan)
Yokohama’s Cosmo Clock 21 stands at 369 feet (112.5 meters) and is one of Japan’s most famous Ferris wheels. Originally built in 1989, it was the world’s tallest Ferris wheel at the time. It features 60 cabins, each accommodating up to eight passengers, providing fantastic views of Yokohama Bay. A full rotation takes about 15 minutes, making it one of the faster Ferris wheels on the list. At night, it illuminates the bay area with a vibrant display of colors and patterns. The Cosmo Clock 21 is located in the heart of Yokohama’s Minato Mirai district, a bustling waterfront area. This Ferris wheel remains an iconic part of Japan’s cityscape, attracting visitors year-round.
Golden Reel (Macau, China)
The Golden Reel, towering at 394 feet (120 meters), is located at Studio City Macau. It is unique for its figure-eight shape, making it the world’s only Ferris wheel with this design. Opened in 2015, it has 17 steampunk-themed cabins, each able to hold up to 10 passengers. The ride lasts around 18 minutes, during which guests enjoy views of Macau’s Cotai Strip. With its one-of-a-kind shape, the Golden Reel is a marvel of modern engineering and design. At night, the wheel’s lights add to Macau’s vibrant nightlife atmosphere. The Golden Reel offers a distinctive and memorable experience, making it a standout attraction in Asia.
Changsha Ferris Wheel (Changsha, China)
Standing at 394 feet (120 meters), the Changsha Ferris Wheel overlooks the city of Changsha, providing expansive views of the urban landscape. Built in 2004, it was one of China’s earliest large-scale Ferris wheels. With 48 air-conditioned capsules, each able to hold eight people, it offers a comfortable experience. A full rotation takes about 20 minutes, giving riders time to enjoy the cityscape. The Changsha Ferris Wheel lights up in vibrant colors at night, illuminating the surrounding area. It has become a key feature of Changsha’s skyline and a favorite among locals. Its location and design make it a major draw for tourists in the region.
Diamond and Flower Ferris Wheel (Tokyo, Japan)
The Diamond and Flower Ferris Wheel, standing at 383 feet (117 meters), offers one of Tokyo’s best panoramic views. Located in Kasai Rinkai Park, it overlooks Tokyo Bay, Mt. Fuji, and the city skyline. Built in 2001, this Ferris wheel has 68 cabins, each with a capacity for six passengers. A full rotation takes about 17 minutes, offering a quick yet scenic experience. At night, it lights up in dazzling patterns, resembling flowers or diamonds, depending on the season. The wheel’s illumination is powered by eco-friendly LED lights, adding to its charm. Tokyo’s Diamond and Flower Ferris Wheel remains a popular attraction for both locals and tourists.
Big O (Tokyo, Japan)
Big O stands out as the world’s first and only centerless Ferris wheel, reaching a height of 200 feet (60 meters). Located at Tokyo Dome City, it offers an unusual open-center design, making it a marvel of engineering. It has 40 capsules, each able to accommodate four passengers, and takes 15 minutes for a full rotation. Its transparent cabins provide a thrilling experience for visitors. The wheel’s location near Tokyo Dome makes it a popular attraction for baseball fans and concert-goers. At night, it lights up with colors that enhance the bustling vibe of the area. Big O offers a unique experience, making it a memorable ride in Tokyo.
Eye of the Emirates (Sharjah, UAE)
The Eye of the Emirates stands at 197 feet (60 meters) and offers scenic views of Sharjah’s waterfront and beyond. Originally located in Dubai, it was later moved to Sharjah’s Al Montazah Parks. This Ferris wheel features 42 capsules, each seating up to eight passengers, providing a family-friendly experience. A full rotation lasts about 20 minutes, offering time to appreciate the surrounding sights. The Eye of the Emirates lights up at night, becoming a landmark in Sharjah’s skyline. It’s a popular attraction, especially during local festivals. The Ferris wheel’s relocation to Sharjah has made it a well-loved feature of the city’s leisure offerings.
Wiener Riesenrad (Vienna, Austria)
The Wiener Riesenrad, built in 1897, is one of the oldest and most famous Ferris wheels in the world, standing at 212 feet (64.75 meters). Located in Vienna’s Prater Park, it has become a symbol of the city and a testament to the engineering of its time. The wheel has 15 vintage cabins, each holding up to 12 people, creating a nostalgic experience. A complete rotation takes about 20 minutes, offering views of Vienna’s historic landscape. During World War II, the wheel was damaged and later restored, adding to its historical significance. At night, it is softly illuminated, maintaining a classic appearance. The Wiener Riesenrad remains a beloved attraction for visitors from around the world.
Texas Star (Dallas, USA)
The Texas Star stands at 212 feet (64.75 meters) and is the tallest Ferris wheel in Texas, located at the State Fair of Texas grounds in Dallas. Built in 1985, it has become a must-see attraction during the annual State Fair. The wheel has 44 gondolas, each seating up to six people, providing a classic Ferris wheel experience. A full rotation takes about 12 minutes, offering views of the fairgrounds and Dallas skyline. The Texas Star is known for its bright LED lights, which illuminate the night sky in vibrant colors. During the State Fair, it attracts thousands of visitors, adding to the festive atmosphere. Its popularity makes it a celebrated part of Texas fair traditions.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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