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Balboa Park Carousel

4.7 (98 reviews)
Closed Closed
Updated 1 month ago

Balboa Park Carousel Photos

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Valie K.

One of my favorite spots in balboa park since I was a kid. So happy they restored it. Pro tip sit on the outside horses to try and grab a brass ring. They don't go up and down but it could win ya a free ride.

PC SJ
J David H.

Balboa Park although touristy is a place that's still frequented by local traffic as well. A major draw for children is its historic carousel. When I visited the park in the Spring I did not realize it had its own check in. You might find it interesting to learn the origins of carousels date back at least 900 years. They are descended from war games devised by Turkish and Arabian horsemen in the 12th century. These games were carried to France by Crusaders in the 13th century and then to England and on to North America in the late 1800s. In 1910 Herschell-Spillman menagerie carousel in San Diego was made in New York, and shipped to Los Angeles, California. In 1915, the carousel was displayed at the summer resort before being moved up to Balboa Park around 1922. Everything on the carousel is original including the animals on the carousel, as are the hand-painted murals, the band organ and the brass ring game! There are only 12 known remaining operating brass ring games on carousels in North America, where once there were thousands. The cats tails my girls rode were originally designed to face down (but were modified for their safety) and all of the hair on the animal tails is real! I found it fascinating to learn the Carousel is still powered by the original General Electric motor that was installed in 1910 when the Carousel was built. Also a little known fact- it does not touch the ground! At $3 a pop you can't beat the memories of a different era. [Thanks to SJ for the background for this detailed review]

Roy B.

A relic from over 100 years ago, this carousel is a great diversion from the sun and heat of the San Diego sun. One of, it not the very fastest carousels, I have ever seen, this addition to Balboa Park is a treasure. My daughter went on this same ride 6 times during our trip and loved every minute. A true piece of history and one that should be enjoyed by old and young alike. Enjoy the history and the music with long rides and restored animal seats.

Men D.

This Carousel is awesome! My son loved it! The time for one ride is very reasonable, doesn't end fast and it even goes a little fast which my son really enjoyed!

Replica of the Balboa Park Carousel
Margaret A.

Thought this would be a great place for this replica to be noticed. Balboa Park Carousel Egg @ Natural History Museum Such exquisite intricate design replicating the beloved Balboa park carousel. I hold in high admiration the dedication and time (18 years to be exact) it takes to create something so beautiful and lasting. Just wish the music could be played for all to hear. Hopefully you will love this piece as much as I do. Created by Jim Grahl in 2007. Made with; diamond, ruby, gold, platinum, silver, mother of pearl, glass, stainless steel and wood. There are 56 hand carved animals that depict the actual one on the carousel. This enameled egg can be found on the top floor of the Natural History museum. So after you ride the real carousel, go and see this beautiful egg.

The horse that I rode!

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Ask the Community - Balboa Park Carousel

Review Highlights - Balboa Park Carousel

And whaddaya know - not only did I manage not to scream in panic, but I actually caught the brass ring.

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Point Loma

Point Loma

4.6(80 reviews)
6.3 miPoint Loma

Not safe for children. I was fishing when caught a fish and then its flew off the hook and hit my…read morekid in the face. They started crying. I put down my rod and my jerk bait with 3 different hooks on it hooks my kid in the face! #fatheroftheyyear! Would recommend

POINT LOMA IN SAN DIEGO IS BEAUTIFUL…read more ================================== My husband and I visited Point Loma, San Diego, on Monday, August 28, 2023, on the last day of our anniversary weekend trip. It isn't too far from South Mission Beach where we were renting an Airbnb. We got to the gate right before the park opened and we were first in line behind a cyclist to get in. I think the charge was $20.00 for our vehicle to enter. There was plenty of parking by the Visitor Center. I believe there is more parking up by the lighthouse too. You can take lots of photos outside the Visitor Center, the Cabrillo National Monument or the Point Loma Lighthouse. On a clear day the view is spectacular. Wear tennis shoes so you can walk up to the lighthouse or on some of the trails around the area. You can go inside the lighthouse, but not up to the very top. There are snack and drink machines by the Visitor's Center, but it might be a good idea to bring your lunch and just hang out for awhile. We were hungry and wanted to go to lunch, so we left before going down to the tidepools. We ended up driving to Coronado Island after our visit for lunch. I would imagine it get's really busy on the weekend, so definitely try to go on a weekday like we did.

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Point Loma - Bryan, overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Bryan, overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Point Loma
Point Loma

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Coronado Island - Hotel del Coronado

Coronado Island

4.5(143 reviews)
3.6 mi

It's been decades since I've been back to Coronado Island. When I drive over the beautiful bridge…read moreand enter the Island, the first thing I tend to notice is how clean, crisp and well kept everything is. The heritage, the history and that 1888 old town feels is super captivating. The restaurants and shops are always fun to explore. Tons to offer from boutiques to bargains and local eats to treats, there is something for everyone! Additionally, the walkability to "ALL the things" is convenient, beneficial and easy. Indulged in lobster roll from Lobster West which was so delicious & had a feature favorite (coconut/chocolate) ice cream from MooTime Creamery! On most of my San Diego visits, I always make a trip to the beach. This one makes a memorial impression. It's so sophisticated, peaceful and pleasant! Plus, it's unique fun finds of some stunning special sea shells is a reminder of its iconic charm. It's just truly a pleasure to come here even if it's just to simply watch the waves of the bay at ALL times of the day! Don't miss out on visiting the stunning Hotel del Coronado. If you are a non guest, you still have options. You can choose to walk thru the property OR you have the option to purchase a "Day Pass" via ResortPass (check their website site) for access to the pool, beach daybeds, and cabanas. There's also options for dinning & drinking as well without having any hotel reservations. Enjoy!

When I was a teenager, I read a long book series that was set in Coronado Island, so it was really…read morecool to see the place in real life 20 years later. The beach was gorgeous with palm trees lining the path to it. The Hotel Del was really neat to see. We also drove past a couple of famous folk's houses. The main area looked pretty as well. I wish I could've spent more time on the island, but it was a lovely first glimpse.

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Coronado Island - Sunset

Sunset

Coronado Island - Hotel del Coronado

Hotel del Coronado

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Christmas Card Lane - Star Wars house

Christmas Card Lane

4.7(172 reviews)
16.2 miTorrey Highlands

Always such a great tradition visiting this area! The houses…read moreare beautifully decorated, the themes are amazing, and my kids always love it! So many houses/families even sell snacks and drinks to take for the trip around the neighborhood! This year we were really looking forward to the man who makes cotton candy in his driveway, and yet again, he did not disappoint! We loved it! There's a house that sells a whole menu of items, from hot food to baked goods, which is So nice! The time and dedication this community puts into Christmas Card Lane is fabulous. It's a must see, in my opinion.

We recently visited Christmas Card Ln. in Rancho Peñasquitos after hearing about its festive light…read moredisplay. While it was a nice experience, it felt a bit underwhelming compared to other displays we've seen. Not every house participated, and the ones that did featured fairly standard Christmas lighting, with a few exceptions. Came on a Friday evening. There was parking scattered. It was 1 mile walk with the loop and cut outs! That said, there were about 4-5 homes that truly stood out and went all out with their displays--those were stunning and definitely stole the show. The atmosphere was pleasant for a walk, and you could easily enjoy the entire display within an hour. Walking is definitely the way to go; driving doesn't provide the same immersive experience. A lovely bonus was the handful of homes selling hot cocoa, cookies, baked goods, coffee, and even pup cups for dogs! We enjoyed some hot chocolate and appreciated the sweet photo opportunities set up by a few houses. Overall, it was a fun evening, but compared to other areas, like the Scripps Ranch light display where every house participates with incredible themes, this felt quieter and less cohesive. However, we greatly appreciate the effort of those who did participate and enjoyed the festive spirit of the evening. A solid 4 stars!

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Christmas Card Lane
Christmas Card Lane - So funny and creative

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Christmas Card Lane - Photo op

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Kate O Sessions Memorial Park - Kate Sessions Memorial Park in San Diego.

Kate O Sessions Memorial Park

4.6(346 reviews)
7.6 miPacific Beach

ELEVATED SLANTED PARK (4.5 stars)…read more I love this park! Dog friendly but not specifically a dog park. A lot of people lay out and picnic. The views are amazing - you can see downtown and the beaches. There is a parking lot but it can get packed. Once a year they do a music event here. Summers it's packed. I've had picnic here with friends and they love the view and park. I've had lazy chill days here with my dog and we enjoy the scenery. Cool park!

The Dolores Park of San Diego…read more I found this place during COVID and have been coming ever since. If you're looking for a birthday hang, a picnic date, a sunset spot, a place to read, chill with your pup spot, or make some art, this park has you covered. It's the perfect spot for any occasion. The views are breathtaking and the vibe is super laid‑back. There are always plenty of people around, so it feels like one big community hang. If you're lucky, you might even catch someone DJing or playing music everyone can enjoy. They also offer community yoga classes here -- I haven't signed up yet, but it's nice to know it's an option. The park is pretty steep in some areas, so you might need to walk around a bit to find a flat spot where you're not sitting at an incline. I'd recommend bringing chairs, blankets, and any shade essentials you might need since there aren't many tree‑shaded areas. Parking is tough and the bathrooms are your typical not‑so‑great public park bathrooms, but don't let that stop you from experiencing the best park in San Diego.

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Kate O Sessions Memorial Park - Happy Sunday!

Happy Sunday!

Kate O Sessions Memorial Park - Kate Sessions Memorial Park in San Diego.

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Kate O Sessions Memorial Park - Playground

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Old Town San Diego State Historic Park - Día de los Muertos

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

4.1(581 reviews)
3.4 miOld Town

When you are in town visiting, this is a must for everyone. There is so much to see, so much to…read moreeat, and so much to do. Plus, you can get your steps in for the day. There are so many parking lots in the area and it really doesn't matter where you park, since they are all in the area and there is something on every corner. On special events, it can get busy and you may not find a parking spot. On this visit, we were here for the Dia de Los Muertos festival and it was packed. Luckily, we got there early, so were able to park quick and right behind the church (best location/lot). First off, make sure to take a picture by the park sign since it tends to get backed up with tourists. There are many vendors along the streets and also inside the shopping area which has lots of cool items and souvenirs. Inside the park, there are little museums that talk about the history of San Diego and the prominent families that call this home. Really cool learning experience and to get an idea of what SD looked like in the past. Plus, there is a cemetery with different tombstones with information for those that are intrigued by learning more about the deceased. Also, be sure to look down when walking on the street, there are grave markers where people have been laid to rest. A bit spooky but interesting. On Dia de Los Muertos, they have special vendors selling custom art pieces and numerous tables to do arts and crafts. I was able to try calligraphy wit a quill pen, make my own sugar skull, and also design a papel picado. There was live music and face painting to celebrate all our loved ones who have passed. The restaurants located in Old Town are also great so make sure you find the one that calls you in. From authentic Mexican food, to a quick bite, there is something for everyone. Be sure to wear walking shoes and shoes you don't mind getting dirty since most of the areas are grassy or have dirt trails. Def recommend everyone to visit at least once to explore. Have fun and enjoy your day at one of San Diego's popular neighborhoods.

If you've grown up in Los Angeles, chances are you've been to Old Town in San Diego. It's a pretty…read moreeasy drive, but feels like you've entered another world. The building were settled to feel like stepping into San Diego at the turn of the 19th century. If you focus on the history of the landscape and the structures themselves, looking beyond the carts filled with modern day tchotchkes and souvenirs, you can definitely appreciate what it must have been like. We were in SD for a game at Petco. I wanted to stay in the Old Town area because I have only ever done day, or once an evening, trips to Fiesta plaza and the restaurants and scores of stores along San Diego Ave, to the east of the OTSDSHP, but never really explored this neighborhood beyond the usual tourist spots. What a treat it was to enjoy this beautiful park at night, long after tourists had departed, and while a few locals remained for a last call, or to close down their stalls and shops for the night. This park takes on a rather special feel, more personal and slightly spookier than I imagined. We felt very safe walking around the grounds at night. Saw a few SDPD patrolling the perimeters, making sure late night bar goers minded their Ps & Qs, as well a a few other couples just strolling around, enjoying the soft lighting and old world charm. Many people and reviews will tell you about the great shops, food and margaritas to be had in Old Town and I fully concur! There's just nothing like a fresh made, hot, buttery flour tortilla and a margarita larger than your head on a warm , sunny day. But, if you can, come check out the area around 9pm and stroll the grounds, reading the various building and history plaques. Crowds have departed and not much, if anything is still open, but the quiet beauty of the park at night is time well spent reflecting on what it must've been like to settle in this beautiful region over 200 years ago. Cheers! "CC"

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Old Town San Diego State Historic Park - Haunted house

Haunted house

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park - Flag Pole with American and Mexican Flags

Flag Pole with American and Mexican Flags

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park - Tinsmith

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Balboa Park Carousel - carousels - Updated May 2026

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