The Wheel of Brisbane is a 60-metre observation wheel at South Bank Parklands, with 42 enclosed, air-conditioned gondolas and 360 degree views of the river, the CBD and out to Mount Coot-tha. A ride takes 10 to 15 minutes, and it is one of the easiest ways to see the city from above.
It stands in the Cultural Forecourt, right next to the rest of South Bank Parklands, so most people ride it as part of a bigger day out. This page is about the Wheel itself: when it runs, what the ride is like and how to get there.
What the ride is like
The Wheel makes about four rotations in a ride of 10 to 15 minutes, including a stop at the top. The gondolas move slowly, so there are no seat belts, and each one has an audio guide that points out landmarks including the Botanic Gardens, Mount Coot-tha, the Goodwill Bridge and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.
Each standard gondola holds up to six adults (12 and over) and two children aged 11 and under, infants included. Infants need a ticket too. The Wheel opened on 31 August 2008, during Riverfire.
When to ride
Daytime gives you the river bends and the green of the parklands. Late afternoon into evening is the pick if you want to see the city lights come on, and it runs until 10 pm or 11 pm depending on the day.
Wheel of Brisbane opening hours
- Sunday to Thursday: 10 am to 10 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 10 am to 11 pm
The ticket booth closes up to 10 minutes before closing time. Hours change on some holidays and for weather or operational reasons, so check the Wheel’s website before you go.
Tickets and booking
Tickets are paid. You do not need to book: buy them at the ticket booth when you arrive. Booking online through the official site gets you a discount, and there are adult, child, concession and family tickets. Prices can change without notice, so check the site for the current ones.
The Wheel also runs extras for special occasions, including a private Moet and Chandon gondola, Cupid’s Gondola and a VIP package. The VIP, Cupid’s and birthday experiences must be booked ahead.
The Wheel runs in all weather except electrical storms, hail and very high winds, and it can close for other safety reasons. Tickets are not refundable if it stops for weather.
Is the Wheel of Brisbane accessible?
Two gondolas are fitted for wheelchair access, and trained staff help with boarding. Wheelchair users transfer into the gondola, and there is ramp access: ask the host at the exit.
Prams, large bags and luggage are not allowed on board, but there is storage on the platform and in the pram parking area. Small bags and backpacks are fine, with backpacks kept under the seat. Food and drink are not allowed on board unless you bought them on site, and umbrellas must stay on the ground.
Are dogs allowed at the Wheel of Brisbane?
Pets are not allowed on the Wheel. Assistance dogs and service animals are welcome.
Getting there and parking
It is about 5 minutes by car from the Brisbane CBD without traffic. Parking is in the South Bank underground car park on Little Stanley Street, with entry from Tribune Street or Glenelg Street. It has more than 800 spaces including eight disabled bays, and a height limit of 2.1 metres. If it is full, the Wheel lists other nearby car parks including those at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, QPAC, GOMA, Queensland Museum, the State Library, SW1 and Southpoint. Check the car park’s own website for rates.
Public transport is easy:
- Train: South Bank and South Brisbane stations are both on Grey Street, a short walk from the Wheel.
- Bus: Cultural Centre busway station is the closest stop to the Wheel, and South Bank busway station is nearby.
- CityCat and ferry: the CityCat stops at South Bank River Terminal on Clem Jones Promenade, and the inner-city ferry stops at South Bank Terminals 1 and 2. See the cross-river ferries guide.
Plan your trip on Translink.
Nearby
- South Bank Parklands – the lagoon, free barbecues, playgrounds and the Grand Arbour on the Wheel’s doorstep.
- Streets Beach – the free swimming lagoon a short walk along the parklands.
- Gallery of Modern Art and Queensland Museum – both in the cultural precinct next door.
- Story Bridge – the other big Brisbane landmark, a CityCat ride downriver.
- Kangaroo Point Cliffs – free city views from across the river.
- Brisbane City Botanic Gardens – a shady walk on the CBD side, one of the landmarks the audio guide names.
More days out in the city are on the Brisbane and Entertainment pages.
Quick answers
How long is the Wheel of Brisbane ride?
A ride takes 10 to 15 minutes and goes around about four times.
How tall is the Wheel of Brisbane?
It is 60 metres tall, with 42 enclosed, air-conditioned gondolas.
Do you need to book the Wheel of Brisbane?
No. You can buy tickets at the ticket booth on arrival, though booking online gets a discount.
What are the Wheel of Brisbane opening hours?
10 am to 10 pm Sunday to Thursday and 10 am to 11 pm Friday and Saturday. Check the website before you go, as holiday hours differ.
Can you take a pram on the Wheel of Brisbane?
No, prams are not allowed on board, but there is pram parking at the platform.
Where do you park for the Wheel of Brisbane?
Most people use the South Bank underground car park on Little Stanley Street, with entry from Tribune or Glenelg Street.
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