A ferris wheel is an amusement ride in which cabins or seats rotate around a high wheel. It is designed to combine the pleasures of a high view and gentle motion, along with a possible mild thrill of being suspended.

Only ferris wheels fixed to an earth foundation are listed as structures; mobile ferris wheels are not counted. The rider's platforms may be open-air seats or enclosed cabins.

The wheel carries its seats or cabins around the perimeter, raising and lowering riders over each turn. An open seat and an enclosed cabin retain the same wheel-based motion.