Carousel of Dreams

Historic Carousel in SF's Golden Gate Park

01.11.2018
San Francisco
Relaxing

When was the last time you got on a merry-go-round? That long ago, eh! Take a trip back in time on a truly historic carousel located in Golden Gate Park. Built in 1914, this colorful gem is iconic in the park, yet surprisingly not well known.

A beauty of over 60 animal figures and elaborate benches, plus an organ (!), the carousel was once powered by steam, then got an electric motor, then made an appearance at the 1939 World’s Fair (on Treasure Island) and traveled to amusement parks in LA and Portland.

Then it went slightly kaput for a bit, in need of mechanical upgrades and a general spiffy-up. The restoration saw vibrant colors return to the animals, which today include roosters, peacocks, horses, and dragons. Even an organ was installed! Ready to give it a whirl? At just $2 for a go-round (actually, several go-rounds), prices are historic too!

The Golden Gate Park Carousel is at 320 Bowling Green Dr., between John F. Kennedy Dr. and Kezar Dr. It is next to the Koret Children’s Playground by the Sharon Building. Parking is located east of Bowling Green Dr., which is by the lawn bowling building. Adults $2, children ages 6 to 12 years $1, children 5 and under no cost, when accompanied by a paying adult. Children under 40″ in height must ride with a paying adult.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman walking down the stairs overlooking the ocean on the Coastal Trail in San Francisco

    America's Best Urban Hike

    Long ago we dubbed it the “Grand Walk” and said it was one of the most scenic and stunning trails in the West. We were wrong. This is the most scenic urban hike in America!

    View

  2. Hike or Bike the Skyline

    A new section of the Bay Area Ridge Trail is open for biking, hiking, or horseback riding along the 12-mile (out-and-back) Skyline Watershed Ridge Trail.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Chasing Dark Skies: Southern Oregon

    Hot springs, hiking, lodging, antelope, and one of the world’s best places for looking up at night.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Lagoon Swoon

    We all love an underdog story, especially in the shadow of the greats. Enter a truly SoCal coastal version: Malibu Lagoon State Beach. Though situated next to Surfrider Beach, a fa

    View
  2. Woman hiking the San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail to San Onofre State Beach in San Diego County

    Bluffing Good!

    Lovely coastline, beautiful beaches, unique geological history, and picturesque sandstone cliffs with limited foot traffic in San Diego County? Head to San Onofre State Beach and the 5-mile San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail.

    View

  3. Tree Town

    Home to an estimated 21,000 trees and 100 acres of parkland, South Pasadena has earned its nickname: the City of Trees. This 2.5-mile neighborhood walk lets you experience its leafy canopy up close, winding through charming streets and three of the city’s beloved parks.

    View