What is the History of the Miami Funfair Ride?

If you're a thrill seeker, no doubt you're already familiar with the Miami funfair ride, also known as the Miami Trip. This compact classic packs a lot of fun into a small footprint, and crowds at carnivals and fairgrounds just can't get enough of sampling the excitement it offers. Wherever it's placed you'll find it quickly attracts a crowd, dazzled by both the excitement the ride offers and the beauty of how it looks.

What is the Miami Trip ride?

Quite simply, the idea behind the Miami Trip hinges on a row of seats twisting clockwise and counter-clockwise through 360 degrees at an ever-changing and erratic pace. The concept of the white knuckle ride is simplicity itself, and while it doesn't feature the vertigo-inducing thrills of the taller rides you'll find at the fairground, what it lacks in height it makes up for in might! This is because the quick and sharp changes in direction create g-forces which lift riders from their seats and inevitably gets those hands in the air. However, this is all of course done in complete safety, as everyone is firmly held in place thanks to the sturdy safety harnesses.

The small size of this funfair ride in comparison to rollercoasters and other amusements also means it's extremely easy to install, pack up and transport. It can be set-up in far tighter spaces than other rides, and it's an absolutely fantastic addition to private parties, product launches, corporate events and more.

When did the Miami originate?

Compared to some rides, such as the carousel or the Ferris Wheel, the Miami is a relatively new invention. The first iteration of this amusement was built by Dutch showman Gerritt Tegelaa in 1982. However it was not until the early '90s that the original concept was modified so that the row of seats was outward-facing, and this became the template for the Miami as we know and love it today.

Pretty much immediately from its first appearance at fairgrounds in the '90s it was a smash hit, and it quickly became a staple at amusement parks across the globe. It is one of the favourite choices of teenagers, and there are also smaller children's funfair rides that take after the Miami but are a little less hair-raising.

A consistent and always popular feature of Miami is the absolutely beautiful artwork they feature on their backdrops. The large rectangular construction of the Miami means they provide a ready-made fantastic canvas for incredible murals and designs. Often these are painted bright colours, which gives the Miami a really authentic carnival aesthetic. There are numerous examples across the world of artists using their imagination and inspiration to make the rides look their best, and in the UK many of the finest Miami ride murals are painted by Paul Wright.

No doubt this brief look at the Miami has put you in the mood for the unique and dazzling experience they offer, so why not hire one the next time you're organising a party or event? It's sure to be a hit with guests, from the youngest to the not-so youngest!