What is the Herschell-Spillman Carousel known for?

It is a rare four-row menagerie park carousel featuring 62 colorfully painted animals, including a dragon, camel, goat, frogs, dogs, roosters, and pigs, as well as interior panels depicting Bay Area landscapes.

How much does it cost to ride?

Admission is $2.50 for adults and $1 for children ages 6–12. Children 5 and under are free if accompanied by a paying adult.

Hours vary based on the season, school schedules, and weather. Visitors are advised to call (415) 231-0077 to hear a recorded message with the current schedule and status.

Yes, it is a long-standing family attraction located adjacent to the Koret Children’s Quarter playground. Children 5 and under ride for free with a paying adult, though children under 40 inches in height must be accompanied by a paying adult.

What is the history of the carousel?

Built in 1914 by the Herschell-Spillman Company, the carousel operated in Los Angeles and Portland, Oregon, and appeared at the World’s Fair on Treasure Island before being installed in Golden Gate Park in 1940.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Herschell-Spillman Carousel in San Francisco

Herschell-Spillman Carousel

A rare 1914 four-row menagerie carousel featuring 62 colorful animals, including dragons and camels, located in the southeast corner of Golden Gate Park near the Koret Children's Quarter.

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What to know

The Herschell-Spillman Carousel is a rare four-row menagerie park carousel that has become a cherished landmark for generations of San Franciscans and international visitors. Built in 1914 by the Herschell-Spillman Company, this historic attraction traveled extensively before finding its permanent home. It previously operated at amusement parks in Los Angeles and Portland, Oregon, and spent time at the World’s Fair on Treasure Island before being installed in Golden Gate Park in 1940. This carousel is distinguished by its diverse collection of 62 colorfully painted menagerie animals. While horses are present, the ride is famous for its non-traditional figures, which include a dragon, camel, goat, frog, dog, rooster, and pig. Adding to the visual experience, the interior panels are adorned with paintings depicting landscapes of the Bay Area. Located at 320 Bowling Green Drive between John F. Kennedy Drive and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, the carousel sits adjacent to the Koret Children’s Quarter. It is the third carousel to be housed in this specific area of the park since the playground first opened. Today, it remains an affordable family destination, accepting both cash and credit card payments for rides.

Visitor tips

Call (415) 231-0077 to check the current schedule, as hours vary by season, school schedules, and weather.
Prepare for a small fee: adults pay $2.50 and children ages 6-12 pay $1 per ride.
Bring both cash and credit cards, as both forms of payment are accepted.
Visit with children 5 and under, as they ride for free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Nearby context

The carousel is situated in the southeast corner of Golden Gate Park, positioned near the Koret Children's Quarter. Visitors can easily combine a ride here with a stroll to the nearby Conservatory of Flowers or a reflective visit to the AIDS Memorial Grove.