All Ferris wheels are named after George Ferris, who designed and built the first wheel for the Chicago World's Fair in 1893. Charles Herman designed this 150-foot-tall Ferris wheel, now called Deno's Wonder Wheel. Construction (1918 – 1920) was by Herald J. Garms and the Eccentric Ferris Wheel Company. Bethlehem Steel, used in the ride, was forged on site. Deno's Wonder Wheel has a perfect safety record.

Each year, the 400,000 lb. ride is overhauled and painted to protect it from the harsh seaside elements of weather, wear and tear. The wheel stands 150 feet high, has a diameter of 140 feet and holds 144 people at once.