Balboa Park Carousel, San Diego Travel Guide

Step back in time on the Balboa Park Carousel, a beautifully preserved piece of amusement history. Built in 1910 by the Herschell-Spillman Company in New York, this menagerie carousel features 52 hand-carved animals, including horses, a camel, a tiger, and even a sea monster. The carousel first made its way to Los Angeles and then to Coronado's Tent City before finding its permanent home in Balboa Park in 1922.The Balboa Park Carousel is more than just a ride; it's an experience. The original General Electric motor still powers the carousel, and the hand-painted murals and vintage military band organ evoke a sense of nostalgia. One of the carousel's most unique features is the brass ring game, where riders on the outer ring can try to grab a brass ring to win a free ride, a game that is only available on a dozen carousels in North America.Managed by Forever Balboa Park, the carousel has been lovingly maintained and restored, ensuring that it remains a treasured landmark for generations to come. In 2021, it was designated a historical resource by the City of San Diego. Whether you're a child or a child at heart, a spin on the Balboa Park Carousel is a must-do when visiting Balboa Park.