Montreal Ferris Wheel: 11 Fascinating Facts About La Grande Roue

Looking for breathtaking views and a unique way to see Montreal? La Grande Roue de Montréal delivers just that—and more. Located in the heart of the Old Port, this towering landmark is Canada’s tallest observation wheel. It offers a panoramic glimpse of Montreal’s skyline, river, and historic districts. In this blog, we uncover the most fascinating facts about Montreal Ferris Wheel, from its engineering feats to insider tips that make your ride unforgettable.

Quick Facts at a Glance

Here’s a snapshot of everything you need to know about La Grande Roue de Montréal, the tallest observation wheel in Canada and one of the most iconic attractions in the country.

Height:

60 meters (about the height of a 20-storey building), making it the tallest Ferris wheel in Canada.

Ride Duration:

Approximately 20 minutes of stunning 360-degree views

Gondolas:

42 climate-controlled cabins, each with anti-UV tempered glass for year-round comfort

Capacity:

With 42 cabins that each hold up to 8 passengers, La Grande Roue de Montreal can carry 336 people at a time

VIP Cabin:

Features a glass floor and plush Italian leather seating for a premium experience

Operating Hours:

Open daily, 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, 365 days a year

Location:

362 Rue de la Commune Est, in the scenic Old Port of Montreal, beside the Saint Lawrence River

Manufacturer:

Built by Dutch Wheels, part of the elite White Series of global observation wheels

Inaugurated in 2017 to celebrate Montreal’s 375th anniversary

Views:

The ride offers unmatched views of Montreal’s historic buildings, eclectic architecture and riverbanks such as Mount Royal, Notre Dame Island, and Jacques Cartier Bridge.

Anti-seismic foundation:

The wheel can withstand winds up to 240 km/h and temperatures as low as -40°C, making it one of the most durable Ferris wheels in the world.

Ferris Wheel at Night:

At night, the structure comes alive with 1,800 LED lights that illuminate the Old Port and reflect off the Saint Lawrence River, creating a glowing spectacle visible from blocks away.

Design & Engineering Marvel

La Grande Roue de Montréal is a feat of modern engineering. Built by Dutch Wheels, a world-renowned manufacturer of observation wheels, this attraction belongs to the elite White Series (WS60 model), the same class as iconic wheels in Hong Kong, Baku, and Chicago.

With a construction cost of $28 million CAD, it was brought to life by a diverse team—including German specialists—to ensure top-tier quality and safety.

The wheel’s anti-seismic foundation allows it to endure extreme weather conditions, including winds up to 240 km/h and temperatures as low as -40°C. The system runs on four pairs of electric motors, controlled via a variable frequency drive, allowing for smooth and energy-efficient operation.

Ride Experience

A visit to La Grande Roue de Montréal is a sensory journey through the city’s most breathtaking sights. Each of the 42 climate-controlled cabins is designed for year-round comfort with anti-UV tempered glass windows and seating for up to eight passengers. Whether it’s a sweltering July afternoon or a brisk January evening, your cabin stays perfectly temperate.

For those craving luxury, the VIP Cabin elevates the experience. It’s the only gondola with a glass floor and plush Italian leather seats, offering an immersive view below and a longer ride of approximately 30 minutes.

What You Can See From the Top

As the wheel rises to its full 60-meter height, you’ll be treated to 360-degree views that stretch up to 28 kilometers on a clear day. Spot the sparkling waters of the Saint Lawrence River and its seaway, the historic rooftops of Old Montreal, and the iconic silhouette of Mount Royal (or Mont Royal, as locals call it).

Westward, you will see Mount Royal rising behind the eclectic architecture of downtown. To the south, the wide sweep of the Saint Lawrence River and its seaway glimmers beneath you, often dotted with boats and reflecting the city skyline.

Closer to the wheel, the cobbled streets of Old Montreal stretch into view, including Place Jacques-Cartier, the Notre-Dame Basilica, and the historic Bonsecours Market. Look eastward to spot the steel silhouette of the Jacques-Cartier Bridge, which becomes a luminous canvas after sunset thanks to its ever-changing LED light display.

On the river’s islands, you’ll catch glimpses of Saint Helen’s Island and Notre-Dame Island. And come evening, as Mont Royal fades into silhouette, the illuminated Mount Royal Cross adds a soft glow to the skyline.

Accessibility & Amenities

Wheelchair Accessible and Family-Friendly

La Grande Roue de Montréal features fully accessible entry points and climate-controlled cabins that easily accommodate wheelchairs and strollers.

Bilingual Signage and Service

Staff members are fluent in both French and English, and all signage around the Ferris wheel is bilingual. Whether you're a local or international visitor, you'll feel supported throughout your experience.

On-Site Amenities

Before or after your ride, enjoy a bite or beverage at the on-site café, bistro, juice bar, or snack bar. The riverside seating areas and red Adirondack chairs make it easy to relax with views of the Saint Lawrence River.

A gift shop offers souvenirs, toys, and keepsakes to remember your experience on the tallest Ferris wheel in the country.

Restrooms, Benches, and Seasonal Decor

Convenient restroom facilities are available on-site, along with public seating throughout the grounds. Seasonal decorations enhance the atmosphere—expect cozy Halloween themes in fall, festive lights in winter, and flowers in spring and summer—all set against the backdrop of the Grande Roue de Montreal.

Ticket Info & Packages

Here's what you need to know before planning your ride on La Grande Roue de Montréal.

Standard Tickets

Adult Ticket:

Approximately $25 CAD

Youth/Child Tickets (Ages 3–17):

Priced slightly lower than adult admission

Children Under 3:

Free entry

Family Packages

- Around $67 CAD

- Includes either 2 adults + 2 children or 1 adult + 3 children

VIP Gondola Experience

Range:

It ranges from $90 to $190 CAD per cabin

Features:

Glass floor, Italian leather seats, and an extended 30-minute ride

Booking Options

Online Booking:

Skip the ticket booth and secure your spot in advance

On-Site Purchase:

Buy your tickets directly at the location (subject to availability)

Best Times to Visit

La Grande Roue de Montréal offers breathtaking views year around—but some times of day and year truly elevate the experience.

Golden Hour

Visit just before sunset for golden light that bathes Old Montreal, the Saint Lawrence River, and Mount Royal in a warm, dreamy glow. It’s a photographer’s dream, with soft shadows and picture-perfect panoramas that highlight the city’s eclectic architecture and historic buildings.

Evening

As night falls, La Grande Roue de Montreal transforms into a glowing beacon beside the river. From your gondola, watch the Jacques Cartier Bridge light up with its colorful LED display and catch the illuminated Mount Royal Cross in the distance. The twinkling skyline makes for a romantic and unforgettable ride.

Fall

Autumn is one of the most stunning times to ride the observation wheel in Canada. The vibrant fall foliage blankets the city, especially around Mont Royal and the islands of the Saint Lawrence River and its seaway—a spectacular sight from 60 meters up.

Winter

Don’t let the chill stop you! Thanks to climate-controlled cabins and anti-UV tempered glass, the wheel remains cozy all winter long. The snowy rooftops of Notre-Dame Island, festive lights, and icy river views make for a magical, snow-globe-like experience.

Tips Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to La Grande Roue de Montréal, here are a few helpful tips to enhance your experience on Canada’s tallest observation wheel:

Book VIP in Advance

If you're hoping to ride in the exclusive VIP gondola—featuring a glass floor, Italian leather seats, and a longer rotation—book ahead, especially on weekends or holidays when demand is high.

Arrive Early or Aim for Sunset

For shorter wait times, arrive in the morning or early afternoon. If you're after jaw-dropping 360-degree views during golden hour, plan your ride around sunset.

Skip the Crowds

Want a cabin all to yourself or with just your group? Avoid peak times like long weekends and major festivals. Weekdays and off-season visits (especially in early spring or fall) tend to be quieter.

Dress for the Walk

While the gondolas are fully climate-controlled, getting to the base of the wheel requires a bit of walking through the Old Port. Wear comfortable shoes, and dress for the outdoor weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is the Ferris wheel in Montréal?

La Grande Roue de Montréal was inaugurated in 2017 to celebrate the city’s 375th anniversary. That makes the wheel just a few years old, with state-of-the-art design and engineering still considered cutting-edge today.

Is the Montréal Ferris wheel heated?

Yes! All 42 cabins are climate-controlled, meaning they stay heated in winter and air-conditioned in summer. Thanks to features like anti-UV tempered glass and sealed cabins, riders stay comfortable year-round—no matter the weather outside.

How tall is the Montréal Ferris wheel?

It stands 60 metres (about 200 feet) high, making it the tallest observation wheel in Canada. From the top, you’ll enjoy sweeping 360-degree views of the Saint Lawrence River, Mount Royal, Notre-Dame Island, and beyond.

Is the Montréal Ferris wheel worth it?

Absolutely. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, the experience offers an unforgettable combination of views, comfort, and convenience. It’s perfect for couples, families, photographers, and anyone wanting to see Montreal from a new perspective.

Why It’s a Must-Visit

Whether you're a couple looking for a romantic sunset ride, a family seeking fun with the kids, a solo traveler exploring the city, or a photographer chasing the perfect skyline shot, La Grande Roue de Montréal delivers a one-of-a-kind experience.

This 60-meter marvel is more than just the tallest Ferris wheel in Canada—it's a window into the soul of the city. From its gently rotating cabins, you’ll gain a stunning, bird’s-eye view of Mount Royal, the Saint Lawrence River, historic buildings, and Montreal’s eclectic architecture.

In just 20 minutes, you’ll capture the layout, beauty, and energy of the city—making it a fantastic way to either start your day with perspective or end it with dazzling 360-degree views of glowing bridges and twinkling lights in Old Montreal.