Griffith Park Merry Go Round

Welcome to the iconic Griffith Park Merry Go Round, a nostalgic gem in Los Angeles that holds a special place in the hearts of many. Located at 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, this classic carousel is not just any ordinary ride – it is a piece of history.

The Griffith Park Merry Go Round boasts 68 finely carved wooden horses, each uniquely designed with intricate details and adorned with jewel-encrusted bridles. As you take a spin on one of these vintage horses, you can't help but feel like you've stepped back in time to the 1920s.

What sets this merry-go-round apart from others is its ties to Walt Disney. Legend has it that Walt Disney was inspired to create Disneyland after spending time at this very carousel with his daughters. The bench where he sat and dreamed up the idea is still preserved, adding to the magic and nostalgia of the experience.

As you whirl around to the tunes of a Stinson 165 Military Band Organ, you'll feel the whimsy and charm of a bygone era. The carousel is meticulously maintained, with the original music box still playing delightful melodies that transport you to a simpler time.

Despite its age, the Griffith Park Merry Go Round continues to delight visitors of all ages. From families with young children enjoying a day out to Disney enthusiasts reliving the magic, this carousel holds a special place in the hearts of many.

So if you're looking for a unique and enchanting experience in Los Angeles, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Griffith Park Merry Go Round. It's a ride through history that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come.

Griffith Park Merry Go Round Menu

Location

Address: 4730 Crystal Springs Dr Los Angeles, CA 90027
Phone: (323) 665-3051

🕓 Work Hours
MON Closed
TUE Closed
WED Closed
THU Closed
FRI Closed
SAT 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
SUN 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Business info

  • Accepts Credit Cards
    No
  • Good For Kids
    Yes
  • Street Parking, Private Lot Parking
    Yes
  • Bike Parking
    Yes

Last Reviews

  • Author: Ray D.

    27 October 2023

    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.

  • Author: Dalia S.

    22 July 2023

    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.

  • Author: May A.

    25 January 2022

    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

  • Author: Leslie S.

    21 December 2021

    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!

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