Jane's Carousel | Brooklyn

Jane’s Carousel is a historic carousel located in Brooklyn Bridge Park, specifically in the DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) neighborhood. The carousel is an iconic piece of Brooklyn’s history, beautifully restored and offering an unforgettable ride with breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, and the East River.

History and Restoration

The carousel has a rich history that began in 1922 when it was first built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. Originally called the Idora Park Merry-Go-Round, it was located at Idora Park in Youngstown, Ohio. The carousel remained in operation there until 1984, when the park closed. At that point, Jane Walentas and her husband, David Walentas, purchased the carousel to preserve it.

For 27 years, Jane Walentas dedicated herself to restoring the carousel to its original beauty. During the restoration process, she uncovered the carousel’s original vibrant colors and intricate carvings that had been hidden under layers of paint. The painstaking restoration effort preserved the history of the piece while modernizing it to ensure its long-term sustainability.

In 2011, the carousel was moved to its current location at Brooklyn Bridge Park, housed in a transparent glass pavilion designed by the renowned architect Jean Nouvel. The pavilion, which allows for stunning views of the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, was purposefully designed to complement the historical nature of the carousel while making the most of the surrounding natural beauty and urban landscape.

The carousel officially opened to the public on September 16, 2011, and has since become a symbol of Brooklyn’s unique blend of history and modernity.

Architectural Design

The glass pavilion housing Jane’s Carousel is one of the most striking features of this attraction. Designed by Jean Nouvel, a Pritzker Prize-winning architect, the pavilion allows for a full 360-degree view of the surrounding Brooklyn waterfront. Its minimalist design emphasizes transparency, with walls made entirely of glass that create a sense of openness, allowing the carousel’s riders to enjoy both the ride and the surrounding views simultaneously.

At night, the pavilion transforms into a glowing lantern. The lights of the carousel illuminate the glass walls, creating a magical atmosphere that draws visitors from afar. The combination of the vintage carousel and contemporary architectural design creates a unique fusion of the old and new, showcasing Brooklyn’s evolving landscape.

Rides and Admission

Admission:

$2 per ride.

Children under 42 inches tall ride for free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Hours:

Weekdays (May 12 – September 14, 2025):

11:00 AM – 6:50 PM.

Weekends (May 12 – September 14, 2025):

10:00 AM – 6:50 PM.

Closed on Tuesdays.

The ride itself is a nostalgic experience, offering a gentle, classic carousel ride with beautifully crafted, hand-painted horses. The ambiance is enchanting, especially when the carousel is in motion, as the nearby water reflects the lights of the carousel and the Brooklyn Bridge looms in the background.

Location and Directions

Address:

New Dock Street at Main Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201.

Visitors can easily reach Jane’s Carousel using various modes of transport:

Subway:

Take the A or C trains to High Street or Jay Street-MetroTech stations. From there, it’s a short walk to the carousel.

Ferry:

The NYC Ferry stops at DUMBO/Fulton Ferry Landing, which is a short walk from the carousel.

Walking:

For a scenic route, visitors can walk across the Brooklyn Bridge to Washington Street, then head toward the river to find the carousel at the end of the park.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting Jane’s Carousel, there are many other nearby attractions to explore:

Brooklyn Bridge Park: The park surrounding the carousel is a vast waterfront area with green spaces, piers, playgrounds, and recreational activities. It’s an excellent place to relax or explore before or after riding the carousel.

Time Out Market: Located nearby, Time Out Market offers a variety of food vendors serving local cuisine. It’s a great spot to grab a bite before or after your carousel experience.

DUMBO: This trendy Brooklyn neighborhood is full of art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes. Take a stroll through its cobblestone streets to experience its unique vibe and get additional photo opportunities of the carousel and the nearby bridges.

Photo Opportunities

Jane’s Carousel is one of the most photographed spots in Brooklyn, offering stunning views of both the carousel and the surrounding architecture. The juxtaposition of the vintage carousel against the backdrop of the Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan creates a striking visual contrast.

The best time for photos is usually around sunset, when the soft light creates a magical atmosphere and the lights of the carousel begin to shine against the darker sky. Visitors can also capture the reflection of the carousel in the East River, adding an extra layer of beauty to their photos.

A Modern Icon

Jane’s Carousel stands as a symbol of Brooklyn’s ability to honor its past while embracing modernity. It’s a place where nostalgia meets contemporary design, offering a unique experience for both locals and tourists. Whether you're looking for a fun ride or simply a place to enjoy scenic views of New York City, Jane’s Carousel is a must-see destination in Brooklyn.