Whimsical Fun at the Heritage Carousel of Des Moines
Experience nostalgia and joy at the Heritage Carousel of Des Moines, a charming amusement park ride perfect for families and tourists seeking fun.
Nestled in the heart of Union Park, the Heritage Carousel of Des Moines offers a delightful escape into nostalgia for tourists of all ages. Experience the charm of beautifully crafted wooden carousel horses as you ride, creating cherished memories with family and friends. This vibrant attraction is a must-visit for those exploring Des Moines.
A brief summary to Heritage Carousel of Des Moines
- 1801 Pennsylvania Ave, Des Moines, Union Park, Iowa, 50316, US
- +1515-721-2590
- Visit website
- Tuesday 11 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-7 pm
- Thursday 11 am-7 pm
- Friday 11 am-7 pm
- Saturday 11 am-7 pm
- Sunday 11 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and shorter lines.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in Union Park after your carousel ride.
- Check the carousel's schedule online to confirm operating hours before your visit.
- Don't forget to take photos of the beautifully crafted carousel horses.
- Consider visiting in the early evening for a magical atmosphere as the sun sets.
Getting There
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Public Bus
Start at the Ankeny Transit Station located at 410 NW Ash Dr, Ankeny, IA 50023. Board the DART bus route 3 towards downtown Des Moines. The bus runs every 30 minutes. Ride for approximately 30 minutes until you reach the stop at 1801 Pennsylvania Ave, Des Moines. From there, it's a short 5-minute walk to the Heritage Carousel, which is located in Union Park.
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Bicycle
If you prefer biking, start at the Ankeny Trail System. Head south towards S Ankeny Blvd and follow the bike lanes. Continue towards Des Moines, passing through scenic parks and neighborhoods. Once you reach Des Moines, navigate to Union Park, where the Heritage Carousel is located at 1801 Pennsylvania Ave. The entire journey will take about 25-30 minutes depending on your speed.
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Walking
For those who enjoy a leisurely walk, start at the Ankeny City Park. Head south on NW 18th St towards S Ankeny Blvd. Turn left on S Ankeny Blvd and walk for about 1.5 miles until you reach Union Park in Des Moines. The Heritage Carousel is located at 1801 Pennsylvania Ave, just inside the park. This walk will take approximately 35-40 minutes.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Union Park Historic Rocket Slide
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The Oaklands Historic District
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Bates Park Historic District
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River Bend Neighborhood
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Highland Park Historic Business District at Euclid and Sixth Avenues
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Iowa Statue of Liberty
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Des Moines Liberty Sister
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State Historical Society of Iowa
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Civil War Mortar
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Liberty Bell Memorial
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Senator William B. Allison Memorial
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S-36 Submarine Memorial
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Japanese Bell of Peace & Friendship
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McCall Monument
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Unmissable attractions to see
Birdland Park
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Union Park
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Riverview Park
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Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
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Augmented Reality Mural -interactive- on Northern-most half pike
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McHenry Park
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Robert D. Ray Asian Garden
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Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge
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Rotary Riverwalk Park
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Holocaust Memorial
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East Village Mural
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State Historical Building
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Iowa State Capitol
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Des Moines Historic District
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Soldiers and Sailors Monument
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Essential places to dine
Mr. Bibbs Restaurant - Home of The Tenderloin Sandwich
1.3 km
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Railroad Bill's Dining Car
2.4 km
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Alba Restaurant
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Olympic Flame Restaurant
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Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
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The Continental
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Bar Nico
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Lucca
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Clyde's Fine Diner
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Open Sesame
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Buzzard Billy’s
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HoQ Restaurant
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Ceviche Bar
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The Iowa Taproom
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Splash Seafood Bar & Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Divine Times Vintage
2.0 km
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Des Moines Mercantile
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East Village Emporium
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Fontenelle Supply Co.
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Porch Light
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KIN
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Chapter 2 Jewelry, Apparel, and Accessories
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Aimee
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True Style
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She Home & Gift
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May Eleven
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Collectamania
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Janes - Family Shop
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MARNe
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Goldeneye Curations
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bellhop
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Alleged Lee's
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Nightingale Cocktail
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Locust Tap
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85 Bar
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503 Cocktail Lab and Tasting Room
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Beechwood Lounge
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The New Northwestern Cocktail & Wine Bar
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Black Sheep
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Ken's - a not so secret speakeasy
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the LiFT
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Tonic Court Ave.
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Shorty's Somewhat Fancy Bar
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The Copper Cup
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Pints Bar Rooftop - PBR Country
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