Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round

I've seen this merry go round in movies & TV before. Also I have tried come a couple times, but this was the first time it was operating. It's pretty cool that this historcal item is still bringing joy to kids & kids at heart. My toddler got really excited when he heard and saw it. It definitely is worth the $2 for the ticket to ride. Everyone who rides needs a ticket so a parent/adult needs to ride with little kids. It was a decently long ride for the price. I was impressed with the craftsmanship and appreciate the people who keep it running.

Griffith Park has been a favorite place to visit and commune with nature for many, many years. I used to bring my children here when they were little to ride the ponies and the train. There is a wonderful playground and the Merry-Go-Round is fun and historic.

What fun!! We walked around the abandoned zoo and then went to the carousel. Operating since 1936 (i think), this thing is old-timey beautiful. You can hear the music long before you can see it-and I don't know about now, but it used to play over 1500 tunes!! It was relaxing to just sit and watch it go round and round. $2 gets you a nice long ride!! Definitely recommend this place for kids AND adults.

Easy breezy way to spend the day. Hike around some of the trails, check out the old zoo. Enjoy a picnic in the shady park. Carousel must be a landmark, it works but I don't think paint has ever been retouched, but I dig the old creepy vibe. Also has small snack bar and nearby restrooms.

Being a fan of Disneyland, the opportunity to ride this historic carousel was just great. It was here, as the story goes, that Walt Disney had the inspiration to build Disneyland. While the paint has seen better days, it give it a feel of being historic. My family and I had fun, listening to the old organ play as we rode. This is a must do experience, at least once in a lifetime.

I just parked by the merry-go-round which is closed right now. We went for an incredible hike. It was the Wednesday before Thanksgiving so it was really uncrowded. I loved all of the different trail options and the views were spectacular!

It's an administration building. For park staff. I find it hilarious its even available for review. That said, I do wish they would replace the vending machine that used to be here.

This is where Walt Disney took his young daughters, and he began to dream of Disneyland.

I've seen this merry go round in movies & TV before. Also I have tried come a couple times, but this was the first time it was operating. It's pretty cool that this historcal item is still bringing joy to kids & kids at heart. My toddler got really excited when he heard and saw it. It definitely is worth the $2 for the ticket to ride. Everyone who rides needs a ticket so a parent/adult needs to ride with little kids. It was a decently long ride for the price. I was impressed with the craftsmanship and appreciate the people who keep it running.

Griffith Park has been a favorite place to visit and commune with nature for many, many years. I used to bring my children here when they were little to ride the ponies and the train. There is a wonderful playground and the Merry-Go-Round is fun and historic.

What fun!! We walked around the abandoned zoo and then went to the carousel. Operating since 1936 (i think), this thing is old-timey beautiful. You can hear the music long before you can see it-and I don't know about now, but it used to play over 1500 tunes!! It was relaxing to just sit and watch it go round and round. $2 gets you a nice long ride!! Definitely recommend this place for kids AND adults.

Easy breezy way to spend the day. Hike around some of the trails, check out the old zoo. Enjoy a picnic in the shady park. Carousel must be a landmark, it works but I don't think paint has ever been retouched, but I dig the old creepy vibe. Also has small snack bar and nearby restrooms.

Being a fan of Disneyland, the opportunity to ride this historic carousel was just great. It was here, as the story goes, that Walt Disney had the inspiration to build Disneyland. While the paint has seen better days, it give it a feel of being historic. My family and I had fun, listening to the old organ play as we rode. This is a must do experience, at least once in a lifetime.

I just parked by the merry-go-round which is closed right now. We went for an incredible hike. It was the Wednesday before Thanksgiving so it was really uncrowded. I loved all of the different trail options and the views were spectacular!

It's an administration building. For park staff. I find it hilarious its even available for review. That said, I do wish they would replace the vending machine that used to be here.

This is where Walt Disney took his young daughters, and he began to dream of Disneyland.

The Birthplace of Disneyland As what many of the reviewers for the merry-go-round have already mentioned this classic carousel has ties to Walt Disney. I first read about the history of the merry-go-round when I visited the Walt Disney Family Museum on Montgomery Street in San Francisco four years ago. The museum had one of the many original benches from the Griffith Park Carousel on display. At that time people could sit on it (not sure now). There it was at a distance among green, grassy hills. The small carousel with a red and white roof with yellow lights is tucked away into a quiet corner of the park. We almost didn't find it. We made it to the merry-go-round before it closed. It was last call for its last ride for the day. The carousel is pretty, it's classic and it's historic. It was an antique masterpiece! It is open for business everyday, weekends included, and every major holidays. I didn't get a chance to ride in it... it's okay, i was just glad I got to see it. I could've sworn the carousel was featured in one of the scenes in La La Land... This is where all the magic began for all the Disney Parks. This was where Walt Disney sat on a bench while his daughters rode the carousel and he dreamt of a place where parents and kids could ride things together and have fun. Parking lot and restrooms are nearby. Fun to see and visit. Review #2493

If you are a Disney fan then this merry-go-round has a historic fun Disney tale. It was here in Griffith Park and on this exact merry-go-round that Walt Disney was inspired to build Disneyland, or so the story goes. This 1920s-era art piece has 68 wooden horses and what looks to be real horse hair on their tails. The paint has seen better days and hopefully will get restored one day. But, it's still dripping with charm. For your safety, attached to each horse is a belt made of old leather that looks to be from the 1930's! It all adds to that historic rustic charm. You will definitely get your money's worth with the amount of revolutions. This is an old relic that is fast. Very fast. Our two year old loved it and wanted to stay on. We weren't aware of the speed until we got on. Try it! Buy your ticket, strap on, and enjoy the ride. Old organ music is played as you ride, for that traditional touch. This is a must do experience for anyone who loves carousels or a Disney fan who visits Griffith Park. Open Sunday and Saturdays from 11am-5pm and the cost is $2 per ticket. As of this review, it is cash only.

A legit antique carosel. Even the music from the music box is maintained! It's kept up very well, I can tell it is very difficult to maintain but the owners do their best. The horses were all unique and different and my three year old and one year old had a great time. It was a bummer we had to pay for ourselves just to stand next to our kids but oh well. They are too young to ride safely alone. Keep in mind, the carosel is only open on weekdays. However, the carosel is located right next to an amazing playground so ride the carosel and head to the playground! We will be back again on a weekend soon!

I have been here so many times as a kid. Also has been in several tv shows and movies. As far as I know, this one and the one at the Santa Monica pier seem to be the only ones I can think of.

If you're a Los Angelean and don't know about this iconic landmark... Or have never been... This is something that you absolutely NEED TO ADD to your "must do" list! One of the few remaining AUTHENTIC carousels IN THE WORLD, its origins date back to the 1800s... But massive refurbishment and tons of donations from wealthy folk over the years have ensured that it is in Disneyland - condition! You don't have to like Theme Parks, Carousels, Disney, or amusement rides to find this incredible gem exciting (tho if you DO your life just got made!) ... It's literally a DeLorean time-machine back to the 1880's - 1910's to ride it ... and is aesthetically so gorgeous - ... you'd have to lack a pulse to get excited to be in its proximity. A few fun facts for the few who don't know: This is the carousel Walt Disney visited Sundays with his two children ... that gave him the idea for Disneyland. People travel from all over the world just to sit on the park bench were WALT DISNEY SAT when he came up with the idea for Disneyland. The carousel is fully functional, with original calliope and Carousel organs lovingly restored over the past 40 years... It's breathtaking to behold Pretty much every celebrity, dignitary, and politician worth their salt has visited this historic landmark... Yet it's still completely accessible and open to all us regular folk and the price of admission is only a ticket to ride !! It's completely surrounded 360 by gorgeous green rolling hills and trees, so planning a picnic around your visit is not only doable but highly ideal. There are ice cream carts, pretzel stands, and the like within walking distance. You can also book private birthday parties - they have a separate little Carousel area to set up tables for food and guests. Nearby are also rideable miniature trains, as well as the famous "WALT's BARN" with the original miniature train Walt Disney built in his backyard... Also one of the major inspirations for Disneyland. What more do you need to know? You absolutely have to enjoy this incredible hidden gem right in the heart of Los Angeles!

This is definitely a walk (or dare I say ride) through LA history. The carousel houses the actual bench where Walt Disney dreamed up the idea of Disneyland, an organ fit for a museum and hand carved horses that have seen better days and yet are gorgeous in their aged appearance. My children and I all took a spin enjoying the festive atmosphere on Griffith Parks 125th anniversary. The organ is way too loud for my old sensitive ears but the boys didn't seem to mind. At only $2 a ticket is worth it to enjoy a bit of history.

The Griffith Park Merry-go-round is a neglected treasure. The structure is beautiful, and the ride is a lot of fun for the little ones, but it is a bit dilapidated and needs a complete restoration. As others have written, there is a ton of history here and it's sad that more attention hasn't been paid to keeping the beautifully hand-painted murals in better shape. Balboa Park in San Diego has a similar attraction, and it has been kept up with brightly colored horses and other rideable animals. The city of Los Angeles needs to step up and do this beauty right!

Griffith Park has a ton to offer and this Merry-Go-Round is literally a hidden gem. It is downhill from the parking lot tucked away from the main road. Here, for $2 I get to feel like a kid on a wooden horse riding up and down and around and around for what felt like eternity. It was great (whee!) then I got really dizzy, and then I started wondering if the attendant got caught up and forgot about us. When was this going to end? LIke, I got my money's worth and then some, seriously almost wanted to beg the horses to stop. All that for $2 is a great bargain. I love nostalgic and iconic LA stuff, and these super old horses made out of wood definitely takes me back in time. The antique-y feel adds to the charm of the merry-go-round. Every horse is carved in fine detail and has gems on them, not cast from mold and painted in bright colors. I thought they could maybe use a coat of lacquer or a little bit of TLC hoping that they will last for a long time. At a second glance, the scratches from people rubbing on it getting on and off the horse over the years become apparent. The music coming out of the real organ here really adds to the old-timey vibe, especially when it plays old time-tested tunes that are perfect for rides like this. It's not quite the same at other merry-go-rounds that simply have speakers. Here's a blurb from the Griffith Park website: "Built in 1926 by the Spillman Engineering Company and brought to Griffith Park in 1937, the Merry-Go-Round boasts 68 horses, everyone a jumper. Each horse is finely carved with jewel-encrusted bridles, detailed draped blankets and decorated with sunflowers and lion's heads. A Stinson 165 Military Band Organ, reputed to be the largest band organ accompanying a carousel on the West Coast, plays over 1500 selections of marches and waltz music." I recommend walking the long way out to the exit after getting off your high horse so that you get a chance to pass by the organ to see what that looks like (or check out my my photos). Bicycle Built for Two was the most easily recognizable but all 3 or 4 songs I heard were Merry-go-roundy music that made me go, oooh I know this tune! Parking is ample and free, with two separate lots flanking the structure but with a bit of a walk. There's a concession stand with reasonable prices if you have no other option for food. There are also picnic tables and restrooms nearby, and a ton of grass all around. There was only one employee manning the ticket/concessions and she also operated the merry-go-round. Despite being open only on the weekends, there were only a handful of people when I was here on a Saturday afternoon. Definitely not Disneyland-like crowds nor a s-ton of kids. In fact, there were many childless adults which made me less self conscious when I go around town solo trying new things. This Merry-Go-Round looks similar to Disneyland's and there's a photo of whom I think is Walt Disney, and a mention of Disneyland. Definitely cheaper than the supposed Happiest Place on Earth! Compared to the merry-go-round inside the LA Zoo, this one is maybe a buck cheaper but you get many more revolutions. Great bang for the buck at $2 for a few minutes of dizzying fun

Normally obsessed with this place but we dressed up and went here for a fun date with my little niece and it was closed! I read online "open every day"' in the summer- turns out the only place where you'll find out they are closed down is their instagram page. Just wish we would have known. Not sure when it will be back up and running, but the summer does feel like the worst time of year to have it undergoing renovation! I hope they get it up and running soon, this place is a really nice treasure and the people who work it are generally exceedingly kind.

This little treasure has been closed for the past few years. Not sure why, no reason given. But their parking lot is near some of the best trails in the park. You can easily do a half marathon trail run loop from here.

Never endless fun I mean between sunset and sunrise hours of course. Fun for all ages! Family friendly areas are everywhere. Here's a list of some places you can visit when you at Griffith park Museums Old zoo New zoo Playgrounds Golf ‍ House rentals & kiddy rides Parking in the park is FREE

Sundays were fondly called "Daddy's Day" for the Disneys. They would find local places to spend time and one of their favorites was this very place. Walt used to sit on the benches and watch his daughters, Diane and Sharon, ride with pleasure around this modern marvel. It's been said it was here Walt got his inspiration for Disneyland. Now a days the place still lives on though worn down over the years for sure. It is in a state of constant restoration and repair and the wear and tear of time can be seen; but thanks to an amazing owner named Julio this place still rides and the spirit of the Disneys still exist with each rotation. The tickets are $2 but the rides are longer than the ones you enjoy at amusement parks or fairs. It can span two to three songs while the music blares from a Wurlitzer recreation. The merry-go-round spins at a speed of 14 mph which is much faster than any other merry-go-round you'll visit. The horses are hand carved from wood and painted ornately, though faded now. There is nostalgia and if you look carefully you can see one of the original benches Walt Disney and his family used to sit at when visiting this place of entertainment. Now it is open only on weekends, holidays, and summer/winter vacation times but each time you visit is a step back to the past. It is worthy of your best social media posts and a great stop when in Griffith Park. Make sure you say hi to Julio, who is such a character, and maybe he'll give you some more insight to this amazing place.

I always come to this spot when visiting Griffith. Not for the merry go round, but for the quiet spots. Plus, free parking at the huge lot. I've played at the public tennis courts here many times, had picnics on the grass, and hiked/walked around the area. Sundays there is usually live music being played, which makes for lovely picnic music.

The price is $2 per rider and the fact that it's available and open to the public as a throwback nostalgic kid's activity earns it high marks. The speed in which the Merry Go Round revolves seems faster than most others I've been on, but it's safe and doesn't make you dizzy or nauseous from motion sickness at all The Carousel Horses are old in design almost antique looking, not heavily painted nor colorfully bright. This seems very safe and sturdy. It's a nice place to bring a child and is very nostalgic. It's a CASH ONLY business, so don't bring your credit cards, ATM debit cards, bitcoins, vimeo, or apple pay.

I gave it 5 stars because I really don't have any other merry go rounds experience to compare it to, and I liked my experience. I came here after exploring the old zoo right down the road. There is a large parking lot right the so it was easy to stop in and explore. I really liked the old-timey feel to it. It seemed like the parts were old and original but they were trying to keep it looking nice. It was only $2 for a ride and since it was an off time I literally had the whole thing to myself (nothing like a grown man by himself, on a merry go round, taking pictures, laughing and trying not to puke... since I don't handle spinney rides well but couldn't resist). They also have a snack stand right there and its reasonably priced. PRO TIP- wait to eat that Neapolitan ice cream sandwich and diet coke until after the ride!!! The surrealness of a random merry go round in the middle of the park, the cool original details, the serial killer music (you'll see...), the great parking and great prices made me give it 5 stars!

This is the inspiration for Disneyland! A long time ago, Walt Disney brought his two daughters here to the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round. While the two girls rode the carousel, Walt sat on a nearby bench and imagined a bigger and better amusement park where parents and children could have fun together... That was the start for The Happiest Place on Earth! Since my first visit to Disneyland (when I was 10 years old), I have visited more times than I can count! To me, Disneyland is more than just an amusement park. It's an inspirational place! Quotes like "...it was all started by a mouse"; "It's kind of fun to do the impossible"; and "If you can dream it, you can do it!" are so positive and motivating! Yes, I am a fan of Walt Disney, the creative genius! That's why I HAD TO find this carousel and have a ride! For just $2, children of all heights can have 3 minutes of fun! Just select the horse of your choice, get in the saddle, and enjoy the loud, peppy music! There's even a snack shop and souvenirs for purchase! Look for the old photos of Walt and his daughters...then...notice the fenced area - there are scrolls of music for the piano... and the original bench that Walt sat on! So very cool!!! I was so happy!!! See? Dreams do come true!

There once was a time when hand-carved carousels and circus melodies dominated amusement parks. That time is no more, but a remnant of it remains at Griffith Park. Built in 1926 and housed here since 1937, this marvelous carousel has endured and continues to entertain today with its 66 quick-moving jumper horses. Some parts of the carousel are worn out and in need of restoration so I hope it receives the care it needs so to continue to entertain people for times to come. Hop on for a ride for only $2. Enjoy the beautiful organ music. Grab some food from the concession stand. Sit on a bench and feel the same inspiration that Walt Disney once did as he watched his daughters ride on the horses. All you can do is have a wonderful time.

I rode this carousel when I was a child and now my little girl gets to ride it. This Merry-go Round has tons of history that any Disney fan would love. Isn't it weird to think that Disneyland could possibly be right where Griffith Park is? My daughter is 5 and loved everything about this ride. It's $2 a ride, the horses are old which adds to the nostalgia, and it's pretty darn fast. This ride really kicks some butt. I could see why a parent with a smaller child might not like to ride this, but my 5 year old and her friends loved it. More pros: there's plenty of open parking and the playground is within walking distance.

Super beautiful, this place scream Griffith Park! A great place for photoshoot whether casual Or even engagement photos. This is also a place just to have some fun ride wise or go for some hikes around the area. They do have different operation hours so be sure to check their website for dates and times! And if you aren't familiar this place has always been the setting for numerous films we watch today! Summer is coming - if you haven't been here yet, it's well worth the trip!! *** even visit the bench where Walt Disney sat as he thought up Disneyland! ***

First time visitor here. Came here sunday morning for a hike with my dog. My friends had suggested it as it's super close to our home and a very nice get away/hiking spot or so I had been told. We arrived at just roughly after 830 am. The sky was slightly cloudy. There are 3-5 different areas to park depending on what your looking to do that day. (Hiking, Picnics, family day) we got the dogs ready to go and we were off. I didnt know it when we arrived but this is kinda historical as I was once a zoo. So we took the dogs everywhere. We explored old cages and the dogs had the time of their lives. We hiked about two miles and because the area is beautiful and well maintained it didnt feel like it. Made a point to stop and check the merry go round out with my puppy and cant wait to bring the kids here to check it out next time. If you love nature you will love this park. Check it out in all its beauty, you wont be disappointed.

Fun and affordable. Parking might be tricky but if you get there early you can find a good spot. All around good experience to bring the kiddos.

Cute spot. Very historic and cheap rides. Staff was very friendly. We will be back soon!

Best memories of the classic Los Angeles land mark of the rare merry gl Round!Great for families and family pets to watch and walk while enjoying the day!

Took my kid here to see if she's ready for the LA or OC Fair rides, heck even Disneyland. I think this is a good test to see how they feel about rides. This spins fast and sounds great. Almost all of the horses did move up and down and didn't make noise. Excellent old fashion circus organ music playing in the background by a real circus organ automated player. Real stuff. Park all the way down the lot then walk down a steep hill, only like 25 steps to get to the merry go round. $2 a ride.

Wow! I loved visiting the Griffith Park carousel. I've run this park over and over in times of training (and it's been here since 1937!) but have never ran up and back to where it's located only spotted the sign. I asked my boyfriend if we could pay it a little visit and check out the grounds of the old Zoo this past weekend. I felt like a giddy kid walking up to the organ music, I almost wanted to run across the lawn from the parking lot. It's really no wonder this carousel served as inspiration for the Disneyland theme park, you will feel a bit of the magic of the happiest place on earth as you approach and ride it. We purchased tickets $2 each for a whirl on this old majestic beauty. I had seen pictures and thought I wouldn't be as fascinated as I was with it, since it hasn't been completely restored. Boy, was I wrong. It's gorgeous! and from the looks of it, it's being restored a little bit at a time which is nice because it doesn't have to be completely out of commission for a restoration project. The contrast from the panels that have been restored to the original ones is really what makes it as beautiful as it is. I don't think I'll ever go to Griffith and let an opportunity to ride it go by. It's a fast moving 3.5 minutes although we timed 4.5 minutes on our second ride. We explored the old Zoo and then I couldn't help but ask if we could ride it AGAIN. For us big kids, go "no hands" legs out, it's even more fun :) What can I say, I'm seeking a thrill even on a carousel ;) They also have package deals to rent the carousel out for a minimum of 2 hours at $200 an hour, an absolute perfect place to host an intimate event is what came straight to mind. An awesome catering spread and 2 hours of endless fun. I'm seriously considering renting it out one day. On our second spin around we were asked to relocate because there seemed to be more riders and I guess they chose us to ask to kindly move back to "balance" the carousel. This was certainly a first and stuck me as a bit odd but we moved back, no problem. I would highly recommend paying this carousel a visit. I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Great landmark in an iconic park. Kind of creepy, older, worn faces but that's sort of what makes it great. It does not seem to be open every time I am there but I am sure I just have bad timing. There's a bathroom nearby.

I have visited Griffith Park since I was a child. It is full of beauty, hiking trails. Griffith Observatory, the merry-go-round, areas to picnic. A place of wonder in Los Angeles, just off Los Feliz Blvd. The fountain at the entrance is amazing at night. A must see place! The ride is only $2 per person. It is open until 5pm during the summer months.

Definitely an old La iconic place. I brought my grandchildren out here since I haven't been here in years, this place has not changed a bit since I was a kid. The merry go round was a bit fast so I suggest not bringing super little ones to ride. Its still the old original merry go round which I guess is kind of cool. Parking is good and well you have the park itself to enjoy around the merry go round. Decent price to ride as well.

A magnificent piece of history right here with a real Stinson Band Organ which are very rare. Popcorn, churros, drinks and ice cream. It's like a mini carnival throughout the year! Update: you need permission for photos as I didn't pay attention with all the movement and excitement of my wedding. Also check the hours of business as they do change with weather, holiday and season. Enjoy!!!

This is a great place for the family and for Disney fans....and only $2 per ride! If you want to elevate your Park day this is a must stop. Also it's right next door to the old LA Zoo.

I did not come here for the Merry Go Round, but I did park in the lot to hike the trails. The parking lot is huge and free. Came at 8 am and it was fairly empty, left at 9 am and it was full. The parking lot leads to a bunch of trail openings. There are a lot of Y intersections randomly throughout the trails so you can get lost pretty easy. I took one that went uphill and ended at a dead end. The random trail I ran ended at a water silo. Great place to park for hikes!

I went to Griffith Park last weekend. The price wasn't bad for 3 or so minute ride. 2 dolla. It is old and such. People there were nice. The snack shack sells the tickets as well as snacks and drinks and shirts and such. Kind of old and my sister thought it was creepy there. I remember seeing this Merry Go Round on the tv show Kamen Rider Dragon Knight where the anti hero of the show was seen with his girl on the sled until the villain of the show played by William O'Leary makes the Anti Hero come out of retirement. I think I sat on that same sled with my nephew.

This is the FASTEST merry go round we have ever been on. If you have young children, this is NOT the merry go round to go on. Not only does it spin fast, the horses also move up and down fast. My youngest was so terrified and probably traumatized for life. My older one managed, but she wanted to get off before it was over. My husband and I were shocked at how fast it moved. Even we were a bit hazed when we got off. Its shocking since Walt Disney got his inspiration there. I think other merry go round makers also got inspiration there - to make theirs move at a normal speed! On a separate note, not that it is expensive, but they charge $2 per person. It doesn't matter if you're standing to assist a child.

It's a little known fact that this is the place that inspired Walt Disney to create Disneyland -- It was also the original place Disneyland was proposed to be built. Walt used to bring his daughters here on Sundays and it inspired him to create a place where parents and children could enjoy themselves together. The music played is my "finish line" music for my weekend hikes in the park and also allows me a frozen ice cream treat as a reward. Side note: Disney Imagineers restored one bench, but supposedly the owner didn't want the rest restored. BOOOOO on them!

This carousel itself is fun to ride (side note: I agree with other reviewers that it seems faster than others I've been on, but there are seat belts and I watched many kids enjoy a secure ride), but what I loved most is the ambience this merry-go-round added to the entire park. I came with a friend and we picnicked on the lawn and enjoyed the nostalgic music from the old-fashioned organ. There's something truly special about knowing Walt Disney used to bring his daughters here, and that this gem that served as the catalyst for Disneyland is still around and open to the public today. Definitely check it out!

I can't say enough great things about this place. The joy of the owners as they were finally able to reopen was contagious. Our family had a blast riding. We also enjoyed the pinwheels that we bought for our three littles that were with us that day.

The kids loved it so much, we had to go twice ‍ faster and better than your run-of-the-mill marry go round.

Love this place! I took my Godsons here & they were just in love with the old fashion merry go round. I enjoyed listening to the old waltz & marching band songs on the organ! Pretty setting & so much to do within a mile of this place. Definitely worth going especially for $2.00/ride!

It's an awesome place for birthday party. We are have a lot of fun to come here for barbecue with friends. There are a lot of funny squirrels here and a lot of beautiful trees

Now this is the merry-go-round I remember from my childhood! 75 years old! It's what makes this place so great. This carousel does move a little faster than most carousels and the music provided is played by an organ. It is pretty loud so if you child is fearful or sensitive to loud noises this may not be the best place to take them. For $2 for an approximately 4 minute ride it's a great deal.

This is a beautiful piece of history. The merry go round is from 1926 and is in great condition. It is a fun way to spend an afternoon. The ride is only $2 per person and goes around about as many times as you could want. The speed is a little too quick for my liking but all in all a really fun time. It is open until 5pm during the summer months.

Spring time is here! My favorite time of the year. Flowers blooming, green grass growing, bees buzzing and beautiful weather makes this the perfect time to visit our local landmarks, and this is certainly a favorite! First of all, know that this local landmark has been around for over 75 years. So please, don't go expecting a shiny brand new carousel 'cause you ain't gonna get one. The old rustic charm and history of this carousel is what makes it so amazing. We've been coming here since we were kids and now bring our kids here too. It's an excellent way to spend a Saturday or Sunday afternoon. The ride is super inexpensive so you can certainly afford to ride 2 or 3 times at least. The snack shop also offers yummy treats like ice cream, churros, hot dogs, cotton candy, sodas, etc. Coming here is such a delightful experience. We have so many wonderful memories here. Love you Griffith Park Merry Go Round! Here's to another 75!

This one star DOES NOT reflect on the actual Merry Go Round, but the nonsense that if you want to take pictures on location or on the actual Merry Go Round, you will be asked to leave if you don't have a permit since this is considered private property, which I didn't understand, so does this mean mothers can not take pictuers of their children on the Merry Go Round, or was it because we wanted to take a few Maternity pictures ? the manager on hand was not clear on how to answer my question.

There is something particularly nice and special about historic merry-go-rounds (or carousels. And frankly, this is a carousel. Look up the distinction between the two and win a bar bet sometime). This is a historic carousel and by that, I mean, it is old and has a story. In fact, there are little signs around/on it which describe its history. It could use a little TLC but the old-timey sounding organ on it is terrific and overall, it is a cool ride. For those of you who care, there really are not that many historic merry-go-arounds or carousels still around. Treasure the ones which still exist.

The first time my 2 year old toddler went on a Merry Go Round was at Disneyland and he loved it! This time I thought he'd enjoy it again, and with only $2/person to ride I thought that was a steal! Once on the ride, he was super scared and the whole time he was gripping on tightly to my finger. He had a worried look on his face the entire time especially towards the end. It was the last ride of the day before closing. The music was too loud and the momentum of the ride was circulating so fast, it made me dizzy. Before the ride was even over, the staff started rolling down the metal door panels, which surrounded the ride. The loud rattling of the doors closing up on us with the loud music and fast movement combined, made my son even more nervous! Finally the ride was over and we couldn't wait to get out of there. The staff could care less as they were still locking up as we left. It was just a really bad experience for us. Probably not going back even though it was super cheap!

5 stars for one of the most impressive organs I've ever seen. Plays beautiful music, LOUDLY, and includes little figurines clashing cymbals together and playing drums to the beat. It's pretty cheap to ride...only two bucks if I remember correctly. I really hope the city can raise the money to properly restore this merry go round. It's enchanting and a fun little escape in the city and should get the respect it deserves.

This is an enchanting, vintage relic nestled in the middle of Griffith Park. There's an element of nostalgia to this merry go round that hearkens back to the 1930s which is approximately when I believe it was made (that's my most educated guess. To be sure you might want to fact check it!). Though the wooden horses on this merry go round are all chipping and faded, there's a certain romantic aura to them. They are not hiding their age or history. A player organ resounds 1930s carousel/circus music as the horses (did I mention they're all horses?) spin fast around. And when I say fast, I mean super fast! I think it's the quickest spinning merry go round I've ever been on. You buy your tickets at the concession that also stand sells hot dogs, cotton candy and other carnival type snacks. While I didn't eat anything, it's nice to know it's there for next time. The typography in the window signage advertising all the foods are mid-century fonts that preserve the whole retro aesthetic and charm of the experience. While riding the carousel, I started thinking about old Hollywood and wondered what famous celebrities might have taken a ride back in the day. It's a perfect spinning piece of history that has been around and around and around...

I visited the Merry Go Round for the first time last weekend, it's an old school carousel celebrating 75 years in Griffith Park. It's a charming throwback to a simpler time, with antique horses to ride on, creepily awesome organ music blaring...I can imagine it being a filming location for an R.L. Stine Goosebumps movie (in a good way!). $2 a ride, near rolling green hills and play areas for the little ones, and ample parking lots are close by. The Merry Go Round has a rich history- it's where Walt Disney took his children and found the inpsiration to create Disneyland! Worth visiting for this fact alone.

Julio the owner is an absolute gem! He makes every experience a memorable one with his friendly conversations and wonderful customer service. I've been coming here since I was a baby and this place brings me so much nostalgia. If you're in LA you need to stop here and come say hi to the friendly staff and take a ride on the world famous "carousel that inspired Walt"!