Jane’s Carousel: Brooklyn’s Historic Waterside Treasure
A century-old carousel restored to glory, offering magical rides and dazzling views at the heart of Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Jane’s Carousel stands as a testament to the preservation of craftsmanship, local history, and urban renewal. Situated elegantly along the East River at the edge of Brooklyn Bridge Park, this century-old merry-go-round is more than a whimsical amusement ride—it’s an immersive experience that reflects the artistry and resilience of New York City. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly fun, a unique urban landmark, or a tangible connection to the city’s past, Jane’s Carousel offers a truly special destination.
Location & Visitor Experience
Jane’s Carousel is prominently located in the Empire Fulton Ferry section of Brooklyn Bridge Park, in the DUMBO neighborhood. Access is easy via Dock Street or Main Street, with the glass pavilion nestled beneath the iconic Brooklyn Bridge and facing the glittering Manhattan skyline.
- Address: 65 Water Street, Brooklyn, NY
- Neighborhood: DUMBO, Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Views: East River, Manhattan, Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges
- Nearby attractions: Brooklyn Bridge, Pebble Beach, Main Street Park, St. Ann’s Warehouse
The carousel’s transparent pavilion, designed by celebrated architect Jean Nouvel, provides a sheltered, luminous setting for year-round rides. Its retractable doors open in warmer months, inviting the sounds of the river and city into the space.
Historic Background: From Idora Park to Brooklyn
The story of Jane’s Carousel is one of preservation and transformation. Conceived and built in 1922 by the renowned Philadelphia Toboggan Company (PTC #61), the carousel’s 48 exquisitely carved horses and two chariots first spun at Idora Park, an amusement park in Youngstown, Ohio that flourished during the industrial boom of the early 20th century.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1922 | Carousel constructed by Philadelphia Toboggan Company |
| 1922–1984 | Operated at Idora Park, Youngstown, Ohio |
| 1984 | Sold at auction after Idora Park’s closure |
| 1984–2011 | Painstaking restoration by Jane Walentas |
| 2011 | Opened to the public in Brooklyn Bridge Park |
Jane and David Walentas purchased the carousel in 1984 after Idora Park shuttered. Recognizing its beauty and potential, Jane led a meticulous restoration project spanning over two decades, saving the horses from being sold off individually and ensuring the carousel could continue as a unified masterpiece in a new home.
Restoration: A Labor of Love and Artistry
The carousel was in poor condition at auction, threatened by time, wear, and the risk of being parted piece by piece. Jane Walentas, a skilled art director and preservationist, oversaw the restoration process from her Brooklyn studio:
- Extensive carpentry repairs to structural elements
- Hand scraping of old paint layers, revealing original 1922 colors
- Color matching and paint research to restore detail
- Precise re-adornment of missing embellishments and gold leaf
- Restoration of horses, chariots, paintings, and organ façade
The original woodwork, credited to master carvers John Zalar and Frank Carretta, was brought back to life, while the carousel band organ (the Gebrüder Bruder Band Organ) was meticulously revived to serenade riders in the classic fashion.
The Glass Pavilion by Jean Nouvel
To protect and display Jane’s Carousel as a public artwork and heritage ride, the Walentas family commissioned a sleek, modern glass pavilion. Renowned French architect Jean Nouvel envisioned a cube of glass, which showcases the carousel in all seasons while framing dramatic views of the river and city.
- Retractable doors for open-air summer riding
- Flood of natural light highlighting the horses’ vibrant colors
- Protection from weather, allowing year-round operation
- Architectural dialogue between old-world craftsmanship and contemporary design
The pavilion’s transparent walls create a visual magnet for passersby on waterfront promenades and serve as a beacon of art, history, and joy in Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Carousel Features: Horses, Chariots, and Organ
- 48 hand-carved horses:
- 30 “jumpers” (movable horses that rise and fall)
- 18 “standers” (stationary horses)
- 2 ornate chariots for those who prefer seated rides
- Gebrüder Bruder Band Organ:
- Restored mechanical organ playing classic carousel tunes
- Original façade and pipes enhance the vintage atmosphere
Each horse exhibits unique character, meticulously restored decorative trappings, and vibrant hues originally conceived under PTC design standards.
Opening, Recognition, and Legacy
Jane’s Carousel officially opened to the public on September 16, 2011. Its long-awaited reveal established it as a landmark destination in Brooklyn Bridge Park and the local DUMBO community.
- First carousel listed on the National Register of Historic Places (1975; later delisted in 1985 after relocation)
- Symbol of urban preservation, artistic excellence, and public space renewal
- Beloved by locals and tourists alike, drawing visitors of all ages
Kyle Goings, a carousel staff member and filmmaker from central Ohio, notes its transformation from a relic of Youngstown steel country to a “quintessential part of New York,” underscoring its cultural impact and resilience across generations.
Jane’s Carousel in Popular Culture & Community
Jane’s Carousel has featured in documentaries, local festivals, and countless family memories. Events such as birthdays, photo shoots, and community celebrations are routinely hosted in or around the pavilion.
- Venue for children’s parties, weddings, and cultural gatherings
- Backdrop for photo shoots and media projects
- Iconic place to celebrate New York’s maritime and industrial past
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
The carousel’s journey hasn’t been without challenge. In October 2012, Hurricane Sandy struck the East River waterfront, inundating Jane’s Carousel. Thankfully, only minor water damage occurred, and restoration efforts ensured the carousel was quickly operational once more.
- Survived a fire at Idora Park
- Withstood decades of paint, neglect, and auction threats
- Recovered from hurricane flooding
This journey reflects not only the technical skill of artisans and conservators but also the deep passion of community advocates determined to see the carousel thrive.
Visitor Information: Planning Your Trip
- Tickets: Affordable per-ride fee; multi-ride and group options available.
- Hours: Open most days, year-round. Seasonal changes and closures may apply—check the Jane’s Carousel website for current hours.
- Access: Wheelchair accessible; stroller parking available.
- Party Rentals: Option to book exclusive time slots for birthdays and private events.
- Age Recommendations: All ages welcome; children under 42″ must be accompanied by an adult.
Insider Tips
- Arrive early or weekdays for minimal wait times.
- Bring your camera—the setting is spectacular at sunset!
- Pair your visit with picturesque waterfront walks, dining, and nearby art galleries.
- Rides last for several minutes, allowing ample time to enjoy the scenery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What makes Jane’s Carousel unique compared to other NYC carousels?
A: Jane’s Carousel combines original 1922 craftsmanship, hand-carved horses, historic music, and a stunning modern glass pavilion with panoramic city views.
Q: Is the carousel operational throughout the year?
A: Yes, thanks to its enclosed, climate-controlled pavilion, Jane’s Carousel is open year-round except during maintenance, major holidays, or extreme weather.
Q: Can children ride alone?
A: Children under 42″ must be accompanied by a supervising adult for safety.
Q: Is Jane’s Carousel accessible for special events?
A: Yes, reservations can be made for private parties, celebrations, or exclusive photo sessions at select times.
Q: How long does each ride last?
A: Rides typically last 2–3 minutes, providing a memorable scenic experience.
Why Visit Jane’s Carousel?
- For families: Safe, delightful entertainment for children of all ages
- For history lovers: Experience a living artifact with ties to 1920s amusement culture
- For architecture enthusiasts: Marvel at Jean Nouvel’s glass cube and urban placemaking
- For photographers: Capture stunning city, river, and park panoramas framed by carousel artistry
- For every visitor: Enjoy a rare blend of nostalgia, beauty, and urban vibrancy in the heart of Brooklyn
Directions and Nearby Attractions
- Subway: F train to York Street, A/C to High Street–Brooklyn Bridge
Short walk to Brooklyn Bridge Park - Ferry: NYC Ferry to DUMBO/Water Street
- By foot: Scenic route over the Brooklyn Bridge directly to DUMBO or via Main Street Park
Combine your Jane’s Carousel ride with a visit to nearby art installations, playgrounds, waterfront promenades, and world-class dining for a complete Brooklyn experience.
The Enduring Magic of Jane’s Carousel
As one of New York City’s most beloved family attractions, Jane’s Carousel is more than a merry-go-round—it’s a story of perseverance, restoration, and public joy. It stands as a proud marker of Brooklyn’s riverfront renaissance, welcoming thousands of riders each year to relive nostalgia, create new memories, and soak in the city’s timeless charm.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning as a local, the carousel’s rotating legacy celebrates the enduring magic of artistry, community, and place.
