If you’re the kind of person who never skips the carousel at a theme park (or just loves a good old-fashioned spin) then you’re in for a treat.
New York State is hiding some seriously cool, super old carousels that are still going strong, and this road trip takes you straight to the best of the best.
We’re talking hand-carved wooden horses, century-old band organs, and rides that feel like stepping back in time.
Some are located in quiet parks, others are spinning near city skylines, but every single one has its own awesome story and trust me, you’re gonna want to ride them all.
1. Jane’s Carousel (Brooklyn)
Jane’s Carousel is a gorgeous, hand-carved wooden carousel from 1922 that sits inside a big glass pavilion right on the East River in Brooklyn Bridge Park, with jaw-dropping views of the Manhattan skyline.
It was originally built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company and lovingly restored by artist Jane Walentas over 27 years who brought every one of the 48 horses back to life.
You’ll find it near the DUMBO waterfront and it’s a standalone attraction that costs just $3 to ride (cash or card).
As of this writing, their operating hours are from 11 AM to 5:50 PM, and they are closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays during the winter.
This isn’t just a spin around in circles, it’s a historic ride with a gorgeous backdrop, especially when the sun sets behind the Brooklyn Bridge.
Just a heads-up: operating hours and closure days vary seasonally, so it’s best to check their official website before planning your visit!
2. The Carousel (New York State Museum)
The Carousel at the New York State Museum in Albany is a hand-carved, fully restored 1916 masterpiece built by the famous Herschell-Spillman Company of North Tonawanda.
It’s located inside the museum on the 4th floor, and the best part is it’s totally free to ride during regular museum hours, which are usually from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday through Sunday.
This beauty shows off 36 colorful animals, including horses, deer, and donkeys, plus a bright, cheery band organ that plays old-timey tunes while you ride.
Fun fact: the carousel was originally built for an amusement park and later lovingly restored so you can hop on and enjoy a little slice of 1900s fun right inside the museum!
3. Recreation Park Carousel (Binghamton)
Now let’s head upstate to Binghamton, home of the super charming Recreation Park Carousel.
Built in 1925 by the Allan Herschell Company, this one’s got 60 jumpers (yep, all the horses move!) and it still cranks out tunes on its original Wurlitzer band organ.
You’ll find it in Recreation Park, completely free to ride, continuing the tradition set by George F. Johnson.
Oh, and here’s a fun twist, this carousel was a favorite of Twilight Zone creator Rod Serling, who grew up nearby and even featured the park in one of the show’s episodes.
The carousel operates seasonally, closing in winter and typically reopening from May through early September. Hours may vary, so be sure to check online before heading over!
4. Eldridge Park Carousel (Elmira)
Keep cruising west to Elmira, where you’ll find the Eldridge Park Carousel.
This one dates back to 1924 and is famous for being one of the fastest carousels in the U.S. with the 56 hand-carved horses flying around at nearly 18 mph, so hang on tight!
It’s the star of Eldridge Park, right by a small lake and mini golf course, and rides are just $1.50 (yep, still a total bargain), open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Bonus fun: the park also has a vintage boat ride and an adorable little train, so it’s a whole throwback amusement day waiting to happen.
5. The Strong Museum Carousel (Rochester)
Next stop: Rochester, where the carousel at The Strong National Museum of Play will make you feel like a kid again.
This indoor beauty was built in 1918 by the Allan Herschell Company and features 20 jumping horses, a chariot, and a whirling tub, perfect for little ones or anyone who wants to chill while they spin.
You’ll find it inside the museum’s Skyline Climb area, and while museum admission is required, the carousel is included so you can ride as many times as your heart desires.
And since The Strong is basically the Disneyland of toys and games, don’t be surprised if the carousel is just one of many magical things that keeps you there way longer than planned.
6. Buffalo Heritage Carousel (Buffalo)
From there, continue your carousel road trip to Buffalo, where you’ll find the Buffalo Heritage Carousel.
This 1924 Spillman Engineering carousel was lovingly restored and brought back to life in 2021 and it’s 100% solar-powered, which is seriously cool.
It lives right on the waterfront at Canalside, with tickets just $1 and open hours that shift by season (but it’s usually spinning weekends spring and fall, and daily in summer).
Be sure to check their website for the most up-to-date information, as hours may vary by season.
The carousel features 34 hand-painted animals, from prancing horses to a lion and a deer, and every detail is packed with local history, right down to the vintage Buffalo-themed artwork.
7. Midway State Park Carousel (Bemus Point)
Last but definitely not least, swing over to Bemus Point for the Midway State Park Carousel which is located inside one of the oldest continually operating amusement parks in the country.
This classic ride was built in 1948 by the Allan Herschell Company and features hand-carved horses plus a few benches, perfect for soaking up those lake breezes from nearby Chautauqua Lake.
It’s one of the highlights of Midway State Park, which is packed with vintage rides, old-school arcade games, and even a mini train (rides are super affordable and the park is open Memorial Day through Labor Day).
The whole place feels like a time warp in the best way, and the carousel’s cheerful music and candy-colored charm are the cherry on top of a perfect summer day.
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