Eldridge Park
Historic park with carousel, paddle boats, mini-golf, splash pad, and scenic trails. Open seasonally.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, less heat
Eldridge Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, less heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic park with carousel, paddle boats, mini-golf, splash pad, and scenic trails. Open seasonally.
"Lovely place to walk with lots to do, especially if you have kids."
🎯 Watch for Geese!
Lots of geese mean lots of poop. Stick to paved paths and visit early to avoid the mess.
🎠 Catch the Brass Ring!
Try your luck catching the brass ring on the carousel for a free ride!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Carousel
Main park area
Ride a beautifully preserved carousel, one of fewer than 20 in the US with a brass ring feeder!
Splash Pad Fun
Near playgrounds
Cool off at the splash pad, a hit with kids of all ages during warmer months.
Scenic Pond Loop
Around the lagoon
Enjoy a walk or run on the loop around the lagoon, offering pleasant views.
Mini Golf & Paddle Boats
Near the carousel
Classic park fun with mini-golf and paddle boats for a leisurely afternoon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Geese & the Crowds
Seasonal Fun & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Watch for Geese!
Lots of geese mean lots of poop. Stick to paved paths and visit early to avoid the mess.
🎠 Catch the Brass Ring!
Try your luck catching the brass ring on the carousel for a free ride!
💦 Splash Pad Ready
Bring swimsuits for the splash pad, a great free activity for kids.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll want comfy shoes for walking the pond loop or exploring the park.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Watch for Geese!
Lots of geese mean lots of poop. Stick to paved paths and visit early to avoid the mess.
🎠 Catch the Brass Ring!
Try your luck catching the brass ring on the carousel for a free ride!
💦 Splash Pad Ready
Bring swimsuits for the splash pad, a great free activity for kids.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll want comfy shoes for walking the pond loop or exploring the park.
🛹 Skatepark Needs Love
The skatepark is outdated and could use an upgrade.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can fill up, especially on busy days. Arrive early if possible.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Eldridge Park is a beloved local spot with a lot to offer, especially for families, including a historic carousel and a splash pad. While many appreciate the variety of activities and the scenic pond loop, some visitors are put off by the abundance of geese and their droppings, as well as occasional maintenance issues in picnic areas. The outdated skatepark is also a point of improvement for some.
"This could be a very enjoyable place, I see they have a splash pad now. We often grab a sub from one of the local vendors and enjoy the atmosphere.
I really feel the geese are overwhelming and should be removed, it is very difficult to walk and not step in geese droppings, totally disgusting, people we have spoke with feel the same about the geese and the mess they create.
Some geese are very food aggressive as well, it really is a shame.
The pavilions are dirty and unkempt, cigarette butts / trash cans overfull / picnic tables just dirty / grime and of course the geese gifts are present.
I see others fishing not sure what they catch, they appear to be having a good time.
Many out walking around the pond not sure the distance around.
The picture is the best spot we could find that day free of geese gifts, although you can see some trash present under the table other spots much worse.
So far it has not become a hangout for the homeless society.
I am really not sure what could be done about the geese, the lack of maintenance and geese are the reason I gave it a 3 star instead of a higher rating.
Edit: Another meatball sub day so I took more pictures and asked some folks about the fishing.
Carp Bass Sunnys Catfish seem to be what most are catching."
Ron Randall
"Great little park. They have rides for kids in the summer plus mini golf and paddle boats!! I love walking around the pond it's relaxing!"
Samantha Becken
"Lovely place to walk with lots to do especially if you have kids. We go early to beat the heat and enjoy the scenery."
Shadra Bruce
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Eldridge Park is located in Elmira, New York. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options may vary, so check local transit schedules if you're not driving.
Yes, there is parking available at Eldridge Park. However, it can fill up quickly on busy days, so arriving early is recommended.
The park has a main loop around the lagoon, perfect for walking or running. You'll also find paths connecting the various attractions like the carousel, playgrounds, and sports fields.
While Eldridge Park offers a variety of activities, the surrounding Elmira area has other local attractions and dining options to explore.
The main paths around the lagoon are generally accessible. Some areas might be less so, especially if there's been recent rain. The new restroom facilities are expected to be fully accessible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Eldridge Park itself is generally free. However, some attractions like the carousel, mini-golf, and paddle boats may have separate fees.
The park is open seasonally, typically from May to September for its main attractions. Specific hours for rides and activities can vary, so it's best to check their official schedule.
For general park entry, no advance tickets are usually needed. For specific rides or activities, it's advisable to check if advance purchase is available or recommended, especially during peak season.
Yes, Eldridge Park hosts various events throughout the year, including seasonal celebrations like an Easter egg hunt. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements.
While the exact cost can vary, carousel rides are typically an affordable attraction. Catching the brass ring can even earn you a free ride!
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
Eldridge Park offers a carousel, paddle boats, mini-golf, playgrounds, a splash pad, sports fields (soccer, basketball), and a lagoon. There's also a skatepark, though it's noted as outdated.
Yes, Eldridge Park has playgrounds, including a notable one with a Hot Wheels track, which is a fun hidden gem for kids. 
Yes, people fish in the lagoon at Eldridge Park, catching species like carp, bass, sunfish, and catfish.
The skatepark at Eldridge Park is described as outdated and in need of work by visitors.
New, year-round heated restrooms are being installed at Eldridge Park, which will significantly improve visitor comfort and accessibility.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you can often find local vendors selling food like subs at Eldridge Park. Bringing your own picnic is also a popular option.
Absolutely! Eldridge Park has pavilions and picnic tables, making it a great spot for a family picnic. Just be mindful of the geese.
Food options often include casual fare like subs from local vendors. It's a good idea to check for any on-site concessions or food trucks during your visit.
Yes, the surrounding Elmira area offers various dining options if you're looking for more choices beyond the park's immediate offerings.
Bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted and encouraged, especially for picnics. This allows for more variety and can be a budget-friendly option.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic carousel, the scenic lagoon, and the playgrounds offer great photo opportunities. Capture the kids enjoying the splash pad or the unique Hot Wheels track.
Yes, with its variety of attractions and scenic spots, Eldridge Park is a lovely backdrop for family photos, especially during the spring and summer months.
Absolutely! The carousel is a highlight and a popular subject for photos. Try to capture the intricate details and the joy of riders.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing serene shots. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial or professional shoots, it's always best to check with park management for any specific guidelines or permits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The historic carousel offers a magical ride that kids will love, and the chance to catch the brass ring adds an element of excitement.While the park is generally free to enter, be prepared for potential costs for rides like the carousel and mini-golf. Bringing a picnic is a great way to save money and enjoy the park's atmosphere, with pavilions available for use.
🚶♀️ Active Visitors & Walkers
Beyond walking, the park also features basketball courts and soccer fields,
catering to various sports enthusiasts. The skatepark is available, though it's noted as needing an update. The paddle boats offer a more leisurely way to enjoy the water, and the mini-golf course provides a fun, low-impact activity. The new restroom facilities will also be beneficial for longer visits or active days.💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Packing a picnic is highly recommended to save on food costs. The park provides pavilions and picnic tables, making it an ideal spot for a budget-friendly meal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of the Historic Carousel
When visiting, be sure to look for the brass ring opportunity. It's a classic amusement park tradition that’s still alive and well at Eldridge Park. The carousel is a central attraction, often bustling with families and couples enjoying a whimsical ride. Its presence is a key reason many people visit the park, seeking that touch of old-fashioned charm. The park's social media often highlights the carousel, encouraging visitors to come and experience it firsthand.
Remember that the carousel operates seasonally, typically from May through September. Checking the park's operating hours before your visit is crucial to ensure you don't miss out on this iconic attraction. The preservation of such historic rides is a testament to the park's commitment to maintaining its heritage.
Navigating the Park's Amenities and Conditions
making it a hub for local sports. For younger visitors, the playgrounds are a major draw, with one featuring a unique Hot Wheels track that sparks extra joy for little ones. The splash pad is another popular free attraction during warmer months, providing a fun way to cool down.However, it's important to be aware of certain conditions. The skatepark at Eldridge Park has been noted by visitors as being outdated and in need of significant work.
Recent developments include the installation of new, year-round heated restrooms,
+1 which will greatly enhance the park's usability and comfort throughout the year. This is a significant improvement that addresses a common concern for visitors. Despite the challenges with geese and occasional maintenance issues, many visitors still find Eldridge Park to be a beautiful and fun place to spend time, especially for families.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit