Koret Children's Quarter & Carousel: A Golden Gate Park Treasure

The Koret Children's Quarter, located in the southeast corner of Golden Gate Park, has been a beloved destination for families for over a century. Originally established in 1888 as the Sharon Quarters for Children, it is considered one of the first public playgrounds in the United States. The playground provides a safe and fun space for children to play and explore. The Herschell-Spillman Carousel, manufactured in 1914, is a highlight of the Koret Children's Quarter. This vintage carousel features 62 hand-carved animals, including horses, ostriches, frogs, and a dragon. Painted panels on the carousel depict various San Francisco attractions and Golden Gate Park landmarks. The carousel was moved to Golden Gate Park in 1940 after a stint at the Golden Gate International Exposition on Treasure Island. In addition to the carousel, the Koret Children's Quarter offers a variety of play structures, including a large rope climbing web, a sand pit, and concrete slides. The playground underwent a major renovation in 2007, thanks to a donation from the Koret Foundation, which preserved its historical significance while updating its facilities. The renovation retained the beloved concrete slides, which have been a favorite among visitors since the playground's early days.