The fairground ferris wheel, those giant wheels that rise on the horizon, turns out to be one of the most emblematic attractions in amusement parks and fairs around the world. However, its history goes back much further in time and its evolution is a reflection of human ingenuity over the centuries.
Origins of the ferris wheel; from work tool to fair entertainment
The origin of the ferris wheel dates back to ancient Mesopotamia, more than 2,000 years ago. There, on the banks of the Euphrates River, large wooden wheels were used to lift water from the river to the irrigation canals, thus contributing to agriculture and the development of ancient civilizations.
Later, they developed more sophisticated water wheels that used animals, such as oxen or horses, to turn the wheel, increasing efficiency and water lifting capacity.
However, over time, the ferris wheel ceased to be solely a practical tool. It became an entertainment attraction. The first appearance of the Ferris wheel as a recreational attraction took place at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893.
It was designed and built by the American engineer George Ferri. He wanted to surpass the magnificence of the Eiffel Tower at the Paris World’s Fair of 1889. With a height of 80 meters and a diameter of 76 meters, Ferri’s Ferris wheel was a monumental feat.
It was equipped with 36 rotating cabins and capacity for 2,160 people, 60 per cabin. It attracted an astonishing crowd of approximately 40,000 daily visitors. They called it the “Chicago Wheel,” and it was demolished in 1906. It left a lasting legacy in the history of attractions.
The modern fair wheel
The arrival of the Industrial Revolution marked a milestone in the evolution of the fair wheel. With the introduction of power, steam and then electricity, the ferris wheels became bigger, faster and safer. Oversized Ferris wheels emerged in amusement parks and exhibitions around the world, becoming iconic symbols of fun and excitement.
Nowadays, the Ferris wheels are more than just fair attractions. It is recognized by a variety of names in different parts of the world, such as: Ferris wheel, Chicago wheel, trip to the moon, Moscow wheel, wheel ferrygiant wheel or around the world. Big cities like London, Singapore and Las Vegas have giant Ferris wheels that offer stunning panoramic views of the cityscapes. These modern structures, equipped with cutting-edge technology and luxury amenities, attract millions of tourists every year.
The tallest fair wheels in the world
The Ferris wheel called “Ain Dubai” is the tallest in the world, it even appears as such in the Guinness Book of Records. It is installed on the artificial island Bluewaters. It is 250 meters high and has 60 cabins that can occupy 1,700 people. It was founded in 2021, but without any explanation it has not been working since March 2022.
However, there are many that are currently active and the highest ones are:
- Mexico City: Aztlán 360 Ferris Wheel.
- United States: The Wheel at Icon Park Orlando.
- Japan: Redhorse Osaka Wheel.
- Taiwan: Lihpao Sky Dream.
- England: London Eye.
With more or less height, all of them are an attraction for the public, who wants to enjoy exciting moments and unparalleled panoramic views.
