An octopus ride is a very common form of amusement ride, in which multiple arms radiating from a central pivot each hold separate rings of seats or cabs. In the normal arrangement the ride as a whole rotates on its center, and each ring of seats rotates simultaneously, sometimes bobbing up and down for added motion thrills.

Each radiating arm carries its own ring of seats or cabs. Rotation of those rings combines with rotation around the central pivot.

The separate rotating rings distinguish this arrangement from a carousel whose seats circle together. Vertical bobbing can accompany the rotation without being required for every octopus ride.