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If you’re looking for a fun and affordable way to spend time with the kids, the Tilden Park Merry-Go-Round is a great spot to check out. This historic carousel, built in 1911, is tucked away in the Berkeley Hills.
We recently visited with our kids, and let’s just say… we (and when I say we, I mean “the kids”) didn’t want to leave!
About the Carousel
This beautifully restored merry-go-round is such a fun ride. With hand-carved animals, vibrant lights, and cheerful organ music, it creates that classic amusement park feel, all nestled within the peaceful surroundings of Tilden Regional Park.
We spent the afternoon at the carousel. The staff were friendly, the rides were smooth, and the setting — golden hills, tall trees, and sunshine — was picture-perfect.
Our kids loved choosing their favorite animal (the rabbit and the dragon were big hits), and even after several rides, they still wanted more. The team here has created such a welcoming atmosphere, it’s no surprise it’s a local favorite for generations.
We loved that there were so many families enjoying the space, some with toddlers taking their very first ride, while others laughed together on the spinning seats with groups of friends. There’s room here for all ages.
The Tilden Park Merry-Go-Round is everything you want from a family outing: affordable, nostalgic, and so much fun. I still can’t believe it’s tucked right into the Berkeley Hills. It’s the kind of place where memories are made, giggles echo through the trees, and time seems to slow down just a little.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Central Park Dr, Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley, CA
Hours: (Hours may vary seasonally)
- Thursday – Friday: 11 am – 5 pm
- Saturday – Sunday: 11 am – 5:30 pm
- June 12- August 17: Open Daily 11 am – 5:30 pm
Ticket Prices:
- $4 per ride
- $24 for a Value Pack of 7 rides (save $4!)
👶 Kids under 2 ride free with a paying adult
💳 Tickets available online or at the boothParking: Free and easy, just steps from the carousel
Public Transit: Take AC Transit Bus 67 from the Downtown Berkeley BART station
Helpful Tips
- Bring Cash or Card – You can buy tickets online or at the booth
- Layer Up – Even in warmer months, it can get breezy in the park
- Pack Snacks or Picnic – Though the food court is great, a packed lunch makes it easy.
- Combine with Nearby Attractions – Tilden Park is full of other gems, such as the Little Farm, Lake Anza, or the Steam Train (which pairs perfectly with a carousel stop!).
During the summer, Tilden Park Merry-Go-Round hosts Family Fun Days every Thursday and Friday, offering creative art activities, classic lawn games like ring toss and cornhole, $2 hot dogs, and fun photo ops with themed backdrops. Best of all, parents or chaperones ride for free with a child’s ticket.
