There is a nice shortcut that can only be used by flying characters. When you get to the first river stream with the waterfall ahead, go past the speed and power signs. There will be a path you can take to go forward or left. Go forward and turn left to see a booster. Get on it and do not turn left or right. You will then see three big looking rings (accelerators) and you will be taken to the Ferris wheel-looking object in a short amount of time.