Vienna Ferris Wheel

The Vienna Ferris wheel, known as the Reisenrad, the wheel presents a true emblematic image of Vienna that can be seen from every corner of the city. It is the world’s largest observation wheel of its kind still in operation and rises to over 200 feet high. The wheel has been an integral part of Viennese social life since its construction in 1897, and has been immortalised on screen countless times, most memorably in the film noir classic ‘The Third Man’. It is a must on any Vienna city break, particularly for families, and offers a magic, nostalgic experience which transcends its use as simply a funfair ride.

 

 

Made almost entirely of wood, each of its 15 cabins has been lovingly maintained and several can be hired as a private dining space – the perfect surprise treat on a romantic city break in Vienna. It revolves at a surprisingly fast pace but there is still ample time to soak up wonderful views of the city and river Danube. The Vienna Ferris wheel is beautifully lit with fairy lights after dark and especially enchanting during the magical festive season. One of its cabins is even transformed into a captivating Santa’s Grotto at this time complete with elves and artificial snow.

 

 

The wheel is the unmistakable highlight of the Prater Park but there are many more fun attractions here to keep children occupied for hours. There is a collection of charming carousels and traditional funfair rides, a swimming pool, jogging track and skate park. There is also a second, newer Ferris wheel at the Prater Park, which opened in 1993 and is approximately half the size of the more famous original. During a weekend in Vienna you can also enjoy the spectacle of harness racing and conventional horse race meets. All these activities are connected by a delightful ‘Lilliputan Railroad’ narrow gauge railway, so travelling from one to another is simple.