Jane’s Carousel is a landmark attraction in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Bring the kids for a ride or climb aboard and experience a whirlwind trip to yesteryear. The antique carousel was built in 1922 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company and recently restored. Through the generosity of Jane and David Walentas, the carousel made its way to the waterfront of the East River in Brooklyn and opened to the public in 2011.
As you approach Jane’s Carousel, note the cube-shaped glass pavilion that encloses the ride. Award-winning French architect Jean Nouvel designed the jewel-box-themed structure for the carousel’s reopening in Brooklyn. Behind the glass, see the expertly restored carved wooden carousel slowly spinning around. Step into the sleek glass structure and watch the 48 magnificently painted ponies traversing around the ride.
Pick your favorite horse and climb on for a whirl around the carousel. Choose a ride from jumping horses, standing horses and chariots. Children and the young at heart will love the nostalgic sights and sounds of the old-fashioned ride. Watch magnificent views of the East River, the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan Bridge go by as you spin around.
Note that the 1920s carousel was originally built by John Zalar and Frank Carretta for Idora Park in Youngstown, Ohio. After the closure of that park in 1984, the vintage carousel went up for auction and was purchased by Jane and David Walentas. It was painstakingly restored over the next two decades and donated to Brooklyn Bridge Park upon completion.
Jane’s Carousel is located in the Empire Fulton Ferry section of Brooklyn Bridge Park in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Dumbo. Reach the area easily via subway, bus, ferry or car. Visit the carousel from Thursday to Sunday during winter or ride any day except Tuesday during summer. Pay the admission fee to ride the carousel it is waived for children aged 3 or under riding with a paying adult. Discounts are available if you purchase 12 or more tickets.
