1 / 3Balboa Park Carousel
📍 Balboa Park, CA
Original Herschell-Spillman menagerie carousel built in 1910 — one of the last in the US remains operating as it did over 100 years ago. Features hand-carved animals, a brass ring grab, and a player piano band organ.
First time back since I was a kid and it was amazing. My girls loved riding the carousel and it was cool to see it in such good condition given its long history. We bought tickets and were able to get on during a busy Saturday with no wait.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
A must for families visiting Balboa Park, especially those with children aged 2–10 who haven't experienced a traditional carousel. The brass ring grab adds a competitive element for older kids. Wait times are typically short even on busy Saturdays. Works beautifully as a standalone stop or as part of a Zoo visit.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →400 Google reviews
Solissa McKay
“First time back since I was a kid and it was amazing. My girls loved riding the carousel and it was cool to see it in such good condition given its long history. We bought tickets and were able to get on during a busy Saturday with no wait.”
Jody Trujillo
“Beautifully preserved carousel that captures a sense of nostalgia the moment you see it. The craftsmanship and detail are impressive, and it’s clear that a lot of care has gone into maintaining it. Definitely worth a visit.”
Lisa DeMars
“Old style restored wooden caramel merry-Go-Round. Brass ring. Player piano band instrument. $4”
TravelRN
“Nice long ride $8/person you grab rings but if your the only one on you don’t get anything”
Reviews from Google
Overview
The Dorothea Laub Balboa Park Carousel is a working 1910 Herschell-Spillman menagerie carousel — among a tiny handful in the United States remains running in its original configuration. Hand-carved animals, a working brass ring throw, and a player piano band organ deliver an experience that no modern ride replicates. The carousel earned a City of San Diego Historical Resources Designation in 2021 and celebrated its 100th anniversary in Balboa Park in 2022.
