Isn’t it amazing? The Carousel for All Children in Willowbrook Park is a whimsical escape. It is not just a ride. It is a celebration of community and imagination.
This turn-of-the-century Victorian-style merry-go-round opened in 1999. The Carousel for All Children boasts 51 hand-carved wooden figures. Look closely and you will see mythical beasts and endangered species. Traditional carousel horses prance alongside them.
Many carousels showcase the history of their regions. The Carousel for All Children is no exception. Forty hand-painted panels depict Staten Island landmarks. Spot the Conference House and High Rock Park. The Tibetan Museum and Vanderbilt Mausoleum are there too. Do not miss the Stillwell-Perine House and Borough Hall. Have you found Horrmann Castle yet?
The tennis players on one panel reference Mary Ewing Outerbridge. She brought lawn tennis to the United States from Bermuda. Outerbridge lived in New Brighton. Sadly, she died young at 34. Her brother Eugenius Outerbridge was the first president of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. The Outerbridge Crossing is named after him.
Carousel Works in Mansfield, Ohio assembled this carousel from 1997-1999. The company claimed it was their largest carousel. Unfortunately, they filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2021.
The Carousel for All Children is centrally located in Willowbrook Park. It is fully accessible. Nearby, you will find a 12-acre lake and hiking trails. A playground and ball fields are also close. Ample parking makes it easy to visit. The Greenbelt Conservancy maintains the carousel with NYC Parks.
A single ride costs $3. A 20-ride voucher is $50. The Carousel for All Children is perfect for birthday parties. Several affordable packages meet your needs. The Stander Package is $649.99. It includes pizza, cake, and unlimited rides for 15 children. The Jumper Package adds popcorn and a souvenir for $799.99. The Prancer Package includes cotton candy, spin art, and ice cream for $949.99. You can add catering, piñatas, and more to any package.
Parties take place during public hours from 11 am to 5:45 pm. Make your party private before or after hours for an extra $250. The Carousel for All Children is more than just a ride. It is a place where memories are made. It is a symbol of joy and community in Staten Island. As the calliope music fills the air, you can feel the magic of the carousel. It’s a nostalgic trip for adults and a thrilling adventure for children. The Carousel for All Children is waiting to whisk you away.