The Brisbane Wheel

Commanding your attention on the banks of the Brisbane River in South Bank, is the iconic and towering Wheel of Brisbane. Popular among locals and visitors, this slow-moving observation wheel is perfect for gaining a different perspective of the river city and is a brilliant activity to undertake day or night.

A Brief History of The Wheel of Brisbane

Designed by Ronald Bussink, the Wheel of Brisbane proudly opened to the public on the 31st of August 2008. Standing 60 meters tall, the large observation wheel contains 42 gondolas and is capable of holding 332 passengers when full.

Riding the Wheel of Brisbane

While the Wheel of Brisbane is pretty eye catching to look at, it is even more amazing to ride, and something we think everyone should experience at least once when visiting Brisbane.

After purchasing your tickets (at the ticket booth or online), guests join the line and wait to be loaded into the gondolas.

It’s worth noting that you are not guaranteed your own private gondola, but you may be lucky to score one if you are visiting during a quiet time.

Each gondola offers 360-degree views of the area, with windows allowing unobstructed views of Brisbane. To complement your ride, an informative commentary is aired into the gondolas and while the commentary is in English, a Mandarin version is available on request, as is music.

Guests will enjoy a 15-minute ride, with the wheel undertaking four rotations, giving riders plenty of opportunity to take in the sights.

Clear skies will present stunning views over the sprawling South Bank parklands, the growing city skyline, the snaking Brisbane River, and even Mt Coot-tha in the distance.

If you want to elevate your Wheel of Brisbane experience or celebrate a special occasion you can pre-book a VIP gondola, purchase a gift voucher for someone special, or buy a personalised photo to commemorate your experience (the photos are taken before you board). Visit the Wheel of Brisbane website for additional details.

Riding the Wheel with Young Children

Children of any age will get a kick out of riding the Wheel of Brisbane, but it is important to note a few things when travelling with the smallest members of your family.

Like any attraction, it’s important to supervise all children closely especially when embarking and disembarking the Wheel. Likewise, when you are in the gondola, keep an eye on little ones, as there are no seat belts or restraints. The Wheel moves very slowly, but even so, you don’t want anyone falling off the bench seats.

Unfortunately, prams are not permitted in the gondolas, due to space limitations, so plan ahead, and utilise the pram parking near the ticket office.

Food and drinks are also not permitted in the gondolas (unless purchased on site).

Accessibility at The Wheel of Brisbane

Wheelchair users are well catered for at the Wheel of Brisbane with two full accessible gondolas available.

Access to the attraction is easy with paved pathways all throughout South Bank, leading right up to the ticket counter and beyond. The friendly staff are always on hand to assist where needed too.

All gondolas are air-conditioned, which makes for a comfortable ride, particularly in the summer months.

Wheel of Brisbane Details

Taking a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane is a fun activity for all, at any time of the year. Child, concession, family, and group tickets are available. Included in your ticket is a ~15-minute ride on the Wheel of Brisbane and pre-recorded commentary.

The general hours of operation are as follows:

• Sunday – Thursday 10am-10pm
• Friday – Saturday 10am – 11pm

We do however recommend checking out the Wheel of Brisbane website prior to visiting as weather conditions, maintenance and special events may effect opening hours.

Our Top Tip – Book online directly at The Wheel of Brisbane to score a discount on general admission tickets and skip the ticket queue.

While You Are in the Area

Locals and visitors will adore the area surrounding the Wheel of Brisbane. The South Bank Parklands is brimming full of life, with the Riverside Green playground, regular markets, eateries and plenty of space for relaxing and enjoying time with your family.

To see Brisbane from the water, hop on a nearby CityCat, and cruise down the Brisbane River, taking in the sights such as the Story Bridge, Howard Smith Wharves and Kangaroo Point Cliffs, just to name a few.

How to Get to The Wheel of Brisbane

The Wheel of Brisbane is located near the Cultural Forecourt, next to QPAC
at South Bank.

Accessing the Wheel of Brisbane by public transport is easy, with the South Brisbane train station a short 250m away, and the South Bank station a little further. CityCats and public buses also service the area.

If arriving by car, there are plenty of paid options for parking in and around South Bank, as well as limited street parking, which is also paid.

Find out more about the Wheel of Brisbane, including current opening times, at www.thewheelofbrisbane.com.au