The Marvelous City is known for its natural beauty and unique cultural attractions, and when the sun shines, the fun reaches a more special level. We invite you to explore some leisure options that the port area has to offer. From the imposing Yup Star ferris wheel, which provides spectacular panoramic views, to the new features at AquaRio. Furthermore, the port region offers a series of other attractions, including museums and gastronomic delights, which will make your weekend unforgettable. So, get ready for a trip full of adventures and discoveries in this vibrant part of the city.
Yup Star ferris wheel
One of the main attractions around Pier Mauá is the Yup Star ferris wheel, an unmissable experience. This Sunday, the view will be even more special, with a beautiful ship docked providing a stunning backdrop.
Yup Star, with its impressive 88 meters in height, 54 air-conditioned cabins and capacity to accommodate 324 people, was inaugurated in 2019. It reigned as the largest ferris wheel in Latin America until recently, when it was replaced by Rico, launched in São Paulo , with 91 meters.
During the approximately 20-minute tour, visitors have the opportunity to admire the main tourist attractions of the Marvelous City, such as Christ the Redeemer, the Museum of Tomorrow and the Rio-Niterói Bridge. The Ferris wheel is conveniently located in Porto Maravilha (Av. Rodrigues Alves, 455 – Santo Cristo) and is open daily from 10am to 6pm. Tickets can be purchased on the website Yup Star.
News at AquaRio
AquaRio, Rio's Marine Aquarium, is celebrating its seven years with a special offer. Throughout the month of November, visitors who also have a birthday this month have free entry. Just present an official document with photo.
On November 11th, at 4pm, Marcelo Szpilman, creator and honorary president of AquaRio, will hold an autograph session for the book “Tubarões – Why they attack man” with an informative talk. This month, the aquarium will pay special attention to sharks, promoting educational activities that highlight the importance of conserving these endangered animals. The campaign seeks to demystify the “killer beast” image often associated with them.
The central theme of the campaign is “Extinction: from past to future”. It will address the origin, major extinctions and the degree of threat these animals face, with around 100,000 deaths annually due to human activities.
AquaRio is located at Praça Muhammad Ali, Gamboa (in front of warehouses 7 and 8 at Porto do Rio) and is open from Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm (with entry to the circuit until 4pm). On weekends and holidays, the opening hours are from 9am to 6pm (with entry to the circuit until 5pm). Tickets are available for R$ 120 (in advance) and R$ 150 (at the box office), and more information can be found at www.ingressos.aquariomarinhodorio.com.br/produto/4418.
And there's more:
Take advantage of the ease of access by VLT and explore other attractions in the port region. Porto Maravilha transformed this area into a major tourist destination, with the Museum of Tomorrow, O Rio Art Museum, the Etnias Mural, all just a few steps away. And when you feel hungry, be sure to check out the various delicacies at the gastronomic complex Portinho (Av. Rodrigues Alves, 135 – Porto Maravilha). Every corner of the place is an invitation to different gastronomic experiences, ideal to complement your day full of activities.
With a stunning Ferris wheel, an educational aquarium and tempting culinary options, Rio de Janeiro's port area promises a weekend full of entertainment for all ages. Get ready to explore this vibrant part of the city and make the most of the sun, culture and cuisine.
