Prater & Giant Ferris Wheel: Timeless Fun and Skyline Views in Vienna
If you’re in Vienna and looking for a mix of nostalgia, thrill, and stunning city views, a visit to the Prater is a must. This historic amusement park, home to the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel (Riesenrad), has been delighting visitors for over a century. With its blend of vintage charm, modern rides, and green spaces, Prater is more than just an amusement park — it’s a place where Vienna’s playful side comes alive.
Riding Through History
The Prater’s story stretches back to 1766, when Emperor Joseph II opened the imperial hunting grounds to the public. The amusement park gradually took shape, with the Giant Ferris Wheel debuting in 1897 to mark Emperor Franz Joseph’s Golden Jubilee. Today, the Riesenrad remains one of Vienna’s most recognizable landmarks.
Stepping into its red wooden cabins is like entering a moving time capsule. As you slowly rise above the rooftops, you’ll be treated to panoramic views over Vienna — from the Danube to St. Stephen’s Cathedral and beyond. At night, the Ferris Wheel glows warmly against the skyline, creating a scene that feels both romantic and cinematic.
Fun Beyond the Ferris Wheel
While the Riesenrad is the crown jewel, the Prater offers something for everyone. Thrill-seekers can test their courage on roller coasters, free-fall towers, and spinning rides. Families will find plenty of gentle attractions, from carousels and bumper cars to mini-trains. And for a taste of nostalgia, the classic ghost train and vintage shooting galleries will make you smile.
Between the rides, stroll down the Hauptallee, a tree-lined avenue perfect for walking, cycling, or even renting a quirky pedal car. You’ll also find food stalls and beer gardens serving everything from cotton candy and ice cream to hearty Austrian dishes.
🌞For the Little Adventurers
Traveling with kids? The Prater is a playground of excitement. Younger children will love the slow rides, colorful game booths, and mini Ferris Wheels just their size. There are also play areas and shaded spots for resting between adventures.
Explore Beyond the Prater
If you’re up for more outdoor fun, the Donauinsel (Danube Island) is just a short distance away. This long, narrow island is a haven for walkers, cyclists, and families looking for green space. You can rent bikes, stroll along the riverside, or simply relax by the water between Prater adventures.
For something uniquely artistic, don’t miss the Hundertwasser Museum (KunstHausWien), about a 15-minute walk from Prater. With its colorful, irregular facades and eco-conscious design, the museum celebrates the work of Friedensreich Hundertwasser and offers a quirky, imaginative break from the amusement park bustle.
Prater After Dark
When the sun sets, the park takes on a whole new atmosphere. Neon lights reflect off the rides, the Ferris Wheel becomes a glowing beacon, and the lively sounds of music and laughter fill the air. For a romantic touch, take an evening ride on the Riesenrad and watch the city lights twinkle beneath you.
📩 Want to enjoy the big rides or a peaceful sunset spin on the Riesenrad without juggling strollers and snack times? Consider booking professional childcare. Non Stop Nanny Babysitting offers trusted, English-speaking babysitters in Vienna — so you can explore the park’s thrills while your little ones are in safe, caring hands.
Send a babysitter request here
⚡ Know Before You Go
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for smaller crowds, staying into the evening to see the lights.
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, a light jacket for evening rides, and an appetite for fairground treats.
- Tickets: Entry to the Prater is free; rides are individually priced. You can buy tickets on-site or opt for packages.
- Getting There: The U1 or U2 metro line stops at Praterstern, just a short walk to the park entrance.
- Family Tips: Bring snacks for younger kids and take breaks in the park’s green areas between rides.
Why You’ll Love It
The Prater is a rare blend of old-world charm and modern fun. Whether you’re soaring high above Vienna on the Riesenrad, laughing on a family ride, or strolling the leafy avenues with an ice cream in hand, it’s a place to make memories that feel timeless.
