Information
Landmark: Jane's CarouselCity: Brooklyn
Country: USA New York
Continent: North America
Jane's Carousel, Brooklyn, USA New York, North America
Overview
Jane’s Carousel, with its brightly painted wooden horses, sits in Brooklyn-bridge-park_brooklyn" class="underline">Brooklyn Bridge Park, right in the heart of DUMBO-Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass.The carousel, a cherished part of Brooklyn’s past, has been lovingly restored and now whirls visitors past sweeping views of the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan Bridge, and the shimmering East River.The carousel’s story goes back to 1922, when the Philadelphia Toboggan Company built it, its fresh paint gleaming under the summer sun.It was first known as the Idora Park Merry-Go-Round and stood in Idora Park, Youngstown, Ohio, its painted horses gleaming in the summer sun.The carousel kept spinning there until 1984, its painted horses chasing each other in circles, the year the park finally shut its gates.That’s when Jane Walentas and her husband, David, bought the carousel, determined to keep its painted horses and polished mirrors just as they were.For 27 years, Jane Walentas poured her energy into bringing the carousel back to life, polishing each painted horse until it gleamed.While restoring it, she uncovered the carousel’s bright, jewel-toned panels and delicate carvings that had sat buried beneath thick, cracking paint.They restored the piece with care, keeping its history intact while adding modern touches to make sure it lasts-like strengthening a fragile wooden frame so it won’t crumble over time.Back in 2011, the carousel found its new home in Brooklyn Bridge Park, tucked inside a shimmering glass pavilion crafted by celebrated architect Jean Nouvel.The pavilion offers striking views of the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges and was carefully designed to echo the carousel’s historic charm, all while framing the sweep of trees and skyline beyond.The carousel opened its gates to the public on September 16, 2011, and ever since, it’s stood as a bright symbol of Brooklyn’s mix of old charm and fresh, modern energy.Architectural Design: The glass pavilion that shelters Jane’s Carousel catches the eye immediately, its clear walls framing the wooden horses as sunlight glints off their painted saddles.Jean Nouvel, the Pritzker Prize–winning architect, designed the pavilion to open up a sweeping 360-degree view of the Brooklyn waterfront, where the river glints in the afternoon sun.The minimalist design puts transparency front and center, with walls of clear glass that open the space and let riders take in the spin of the carousel along with the sweep of the view outside.At night, the pavilion glows like a lantern, its light spilling across the grass in warm golden pools.Golden carousel lights spill across the glass walls, casting a warm glow that catches the eye and pulls visitors in from blocks away.A vintage carousel spins beneath sleek modern lines, blending old charm with bold new design and capturing the changing face of Brooklyn.Admission is $2 for each ride-just enough for the rush of wind as the carousel spins.Kids shorter than 42 inches ride free, as long as they’re with a paying adult-think a toddler holding mom’s hand at the gate.Open weekdays from May 12 to September 14, 2025, 11:00 a.m. until 6:50 p.m.-just in time to catch the late afternoon light.On weekends from May 12 to September 14, 2025, doors open at 10:00 a.m. and close at 6:50 p.m., just as the evening light begins to fade.We’re closed every Tuesday, so don’t expect the lights on or the smell of fresh coffee.The ride feels like stepping back in time-a slow, graceful carousel with hand-painted horses whose glossy coats catch the light.The place feels magical, especially when the carousel spins, its lights dancing across the rippling water while the Brooklyn Bridge rises in the distance.You’ll find us at New Dock Street and Main Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201-right where the cobblestones meet the waterfront.It’s easy to get to Jane’s Carousel-just hop on the A or C train and ride to High Street, or head for Jay Street–MetroTech.From there, you can stroll a few minutes and hear the carousel’s music drifting through the air.The NYC Ferry pulls in at DUMBO’s Fulton Ferry Landing, just a quick stroll from the carousel with its painted horses and gleaming brass poles.For a scenic stroll, cross the Brooklyn Bridge to Washington Street, then wander toward the river-you’ll spot the carousel spinning at the park’s far edge.While you’re at Jane’s Carousel, it’s worth wandering into Brooklyn Bridge Park-a sweeping waterfront with grassy lawns, wooden piers, lively playgrounds, and plenty of spots to sit and watch the river drift by.It’s a great spot to wander or unwind, whether you’re waiting for the carousel or catching your breath after, with the scent of popcorn drifting through the air.Just a short walk away, Time Out Market bursts with food stalls dishing up local favorites, from sizzling seafood to fresh-baked bread.It’s the perfect place to snag a quick sandwich before you hop on the carousel-or unwind with a snack after the ride.DUMBO, a stylish corner of Brooklyn, buzzes with art galleries, quirky little shops, and cafés where the smell of fresh espresso drifts out onto the cobblestones.Wander down the cobblestone streets, soak in the town’s one‑of‑a‑kind vibe, and snap extra shots of the carousel spinning under bright lights and the bridges just steps away.Jane’s Carousel is a favorite spot for photographers in Brooklyn, where the gleaming horses spin against a backdrop of sweeping glass and stately brick buildings.The vintage carousel spins in front of the Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan, its painted horses bright against the steel and stone-a sharp, unforgettable contrast.Sunset’s the perfect time for photos, when the light turns warm and gentle, and the carousel bulbs flicker to life against the deepening blue of the sky.Visitors can snap the carousel’s reflection shimmering in the East River, giving their photos an extra touch of magic.Jane’s Carousel, a modern icon, shows how Brooklyn can treasure its history while welcoming what’s new - its polished wood horses gleam beside the glass pavilion.It’s where old memories brush up against sleek, modern lines, creating an experience locals savor and visitors won’t forget.Whether you’re after a joyful spin or just want to take in the glittering skyline, Jane’s Carousel is a Brooklyn spot you shouldn’t miss.
