Carousel rides are one of those childhood delights that have stood the test of time–and with a new, marine-life inspired carousel coming to Battery Park this summer, they’re not going anywhere soon (at least in New York.) Take a spin on one of these local favorites this summer.
Manhattan
Central Park Carousel
There are few carousels as classic as the Central Park Carousel, created in 1908 and featuring 57 hand-carved horses and two grandeur chariots. With the iconic New York City landscape surrounding the carousel, those who ride will have an opportunity to take in 360 degree view of Central Park while enjoying music and laughs on one of the largest carousels in the country. 65th Street Transverse, New York, NY centralparknyc.org
The Carousel at Pier 62
This modern carousel boasts 33 hand-carved wooden animals from black bears to unicorns with beautiful views of the Hudson River. Featuring a “living” green roof and twinkling lights, this ride is not only beautiful but conveniently located in Hudson River Park,close to Chelsea Piers for even more fun and games. Plus, on Sundays, the Park hosts free kids’ entertainment at the carousel–you can look forward to performances by Skatz the Clown and the Sammie and Tudie Show this summer! Pier 62, between 22nd and 23rd Streets, pier62carousel.com
Le Carrousel
This European-inspired carousel ride surrounds you with French cabaret music and a Parisian flare in the heart of Bryant Park. A smaller ride, Le Carrousel offers 14 different animals that look like antique toys with beautiful, painted boards designed to blend into the surrounding trees. The carousel is perfect for toddlers looking for a relaxed ride on a summer day. Bryant Park, 40th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues, bryantpark.org
SeaGlass Carousel
Keep an eye out for Battery Park’s new SeaGlass Carousel, scheduled to open this summer. This handcrafted ride puts a twist on the definition of a carousel, as children ride inside the sea creatures as they circle an aquatic-themed centerpiece. Illuminated by dazzling blue lights, the various creatures and other fishy friends create a one-of-a-kind experience for people of all ages. Battery Park, , thebattery.org
Brooklyn
Jane’s Carousel
Situated in Brooklyn Bridge Park, Jane’s Carousel sports some of the most beautiful views in Brooklyn from seats on any of the 48 hand-carved horses or two chariots. This ride has traveled across the United States, and finally made its way to New York City after its original installation at Idora Park in Youngstown, Ohio. Since 2011, the fully restored ride has decorated Dumbo with its 1,200 lights and can also be reserved for parties and events. Brooklyn Bridge Park, enter at Dock Street or Main Street, Brooklyn, janescarousel.com
Prospect Park Carousel
Brooklyn’s equivalent of the Central park Carousel, the Prospect Park Carousel is absolutely stunning and comes with its own interesting history. Constructed in 1912, this wheelchair-accessible ride offers a selection of 53 horses with chariots drawn by your choice of a lion, giraffe, deer or dragon! You can even take a picnic basket and make a day out of fun and games at Prospect Park. Prospect Park — Willink entrance at Flatbush Avenue and Empire Boulevard, Park Slope, prospectpark.org
Queens
Forest Park Carousel
Tucked into 544 acres of trees and grass in Woodhaven, the Forest Park Carousel is a hidden gem. Built in 1903, this work of art has been a staple piece at the Queens public park since the 1970s. With free parking adjacent to the carousel and accessible via public transportation, there is no excuse to miss out on the Forest Park Carousel this summer! Woodhaven Boulevard and Forest Park Drive, Queens, forestparkcarousel.com
