
Bushnell Park Carousel
Step back in time on a beautifully restored 1914 carousel, complete with hand-carved horses and a Wurlitzer band organ.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Carousel opens for spring

Bushnell Park Carousel
Best Time
Carousel opens for spring

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time on a beautifully restored 1914 carousel, complete with hand-carved horses and a Wurlitzer band organ.
"A true jewel of Hartford, CT. A must see for the family visit!"

🎟️ Affordable Fun
Rides are typically $2 per person, but sometimes free during special events like Mayor's Day!
🎶 Live Band Organ Music
Enjoy the authentic sounds of the 1921 Wurlitzer band organ as you ride.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 1914 Stein and Goldstein Carousel
Bushnell Park
A beautifully restored 1914 carousel with 48 hand-carved horses and two chariots, accompanied by a Wurlitzer band organ.

Wurlitzer Band Organ Music
Bushnell Park Carousel
Experience the nostalgic sounds of a 1921 Wurlitzer band organ that still plays as the carousel spins.

Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch
Bushnell Park
A historic arch offering free tours on Thursdays, providing insights into its fascinating story and the park's history.
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Beyond the Ride
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🎟️ Affordable Fun
Rides are typically $2 per person, but sometimes free during special events like Mayor's Day!
🎶 Live Band Organ Music
Enjoy the authentic sounds of the 1921 Wurlitzer band organ as you ride.
🥳 Party Venue
Rent the carousel and pavilion for unforgettable birthday parties and events.
🏛️ Park Exploration
Combine your carousel ride with a visit to the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch for free tours.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Affordable Fun
Rides are typically $2 per person, but sometimes free during special events like Mayor's Day!
🎶 Live Band Organ Music
Enjoy the authentic sounds of the 1921 Wurlitzer band organ as you ride.
🥳 Party Venue
Rent the carousel and pavilion for unforgettable birthday parties and events.
🏛️ Park Exploration
Combine your carousel ride with a visit to the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch for free tours.
⛸️ Winterfest Fun
During winter, the park hosts Winterfest with free ice skating.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bushnell Park Carousel as a beautiful piece of living history and a true jewel of Hartford. The well-maintained vintage ride, accompanied by its authentic Wurlitzer band organ music, offers a nostalgic and enjoyable experience for all ages. The friendly staff and the surrounding park amenities, including a playground and historical arch, further enhance its appeal as a family-friendly destination.
"Didn't get to see it but from the outside of the building, but looked amazing. Would have really enjoyed to see it in operation. This whole area and park here in Hardford Connecticut is amazing."
Brian Dible
"This is a beautiful piece of living art and history in the middle of Hartford. My family found it on accident and were so happy and excited with the experience. The staff were very friendly and there were both snack and seasonal drinks available for purchase. The ride was great, safe and extremely well maintained."
Trent
"A true jewel of Hartford, CT. Located in the downtown area close to the capital, easy on & off of interstate, a must see for the family visit! $2. Fee to ride this incredible masterpiece of history over 100 years old still using the Wurlitzer music piece to pipe out the iconic tunes to whirl around in.
Enjoy the large playground located outside, restrooms in building which offers a snack bar. This was a great addition to our trip to Hartford."
C Cole
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The carousel is located in Bushnell Park, downtown Hartford, CT. It's easily accessible by car, with street parking available (sometimes free parking at the Capitol). Public transportation options also serve the downtown area.
Street parking is available around Bushnell Park. Some reviews suggest free parking at the Capitol building might be an option.
Yes, downtown Hartford is served by various bus routes, making it accessible via public transport. Check local transit schedules for specific routes and stops near Bushnell Park.
Bushnell Park is generally accessible, and the carousel area is typically navigable. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific accessibility updates closer to your visit.
Use GPS navigation to 'Bushnell Park, Hartford, CT'. The park is centrally located downtown, near the State Capitol building.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Rides are typically $2 per person. However, some special events, like Mayor's Day, offer free rides.
Operating hours vary seasonally. It's usually open on weekends from 12-5 PM in March and April, and hours can extend during summer. Always check the official Bushnell Park website or social media for the most current schedule.
Tickets are typically purchased on-site at the carousel. Advance purchase is usually not necessary unless for a private event rental.
While rides usually have a fee, Bushnell Park itself is free to enter. Special events like Mayor's Day have offered free carousel rides in the past.
No, the carousel has seasonal operating hours, typically opening in spring and closing in the fall. Winterfest offers ice skating in the park.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
Bushnell Park features a large playground, the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch (with free tours on Thursdays), seasonal events like Winterfest and movie nights, and beautiful green spaces for relaxing.
Yes, there is a large playground located within Bushnell Park, making it a great spot for families.
Absolutely! The carousel and adjoining pavilion can be rented for parties and events.
The carousel features a 1921 Wurlitzer band organ that plays iconic tunes, adding to the vintage atmosphere.
Yes, restrooms are available in the building that houses the carousel, which also offers a snack bar.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a snack bar located within the carousel building offering snacks and seasonal drinks.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and blankets to enjoy picnics in Bushnell Park, especially for events like movie nights.
Downtown Hartford has numerous restaurants and eateries within walking distance of Bushnell Park, offering a variety of cuisines.
Reviews mention snacks and seasonal drinks being available for purchase at the carousel building.
Yes, seasonal drinks are available for purchase at the snack bar within the carousel building.
📸 📸 Photography
Bushnell Park offers several picturesque spots, including the carousel itself, the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch, and the general park landscape. The carousel is particularly photogenic with its vintage charm.
Yes, you can take photos while riding the carousel or of the carousel itself. It's a popular subject for photographers.
Generally, personal photography is allowed in Bushnell Park. For commercial photography or large-scale shoots, it's advisable to check with park management.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting. Midday can be bright but still offers good opportunities, especially with the vibrant colors of the carousel.
Yes, public art installations are sometimes featured in Bushnell Park, offering unique photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during special events like free movie nights or Winterfest for added family fun. The park's open spaces are perfect for picnics, and the snack bar at the carousel provides convenient refreshments. The friendly staff at the carousel also make an effort to engage with children, enhancing their experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look out for free events like the Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz or free movie nights in the park, which provide entertainment without breaking the bank. Packing a picnic is also a great way to save on food costs while enjoying the park's scenery.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the carousel, the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch provides a grand architectural subject. The park's landscaping, especially during different seasons, offers beautiful backdrops. Golden hour lighting can enhance the magical atmosphere of the carousel and the park.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Gem of History: The 1914 Stein and Goldstein Carousel
This historic attraction is a beloved landmark in Hartford, Connecticut, and a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era. Its presence in Bushnell Park, a beautiful urban oasis, makes it a focal point for both locals and tourists. The carousel's enduring charm continues to create magical memories for families and individuals alike, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a touch of nostalgia and wonder.
Beyond the ride itself, the carousel building often serves as a hub for community events and celebrations. It's a popular venue for birthday parties and gatherings, highlighting its role as a cherished community asset. The dedication to preserving and operating this vintage carousel ensures that its unique magic can be experienced for generations to come.
Bushnell Park: More Than Just a Carousel
The park is a popular spot for community events throughout the year. From the Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz and West Indian Celebrations to free movie nights during the summer and the festive Winterfest with its free ice skating, there's always something happening. These events draw large crowds and showcase the park's versatility as a public gathering space.
Families will appreciate the large playground, making it an ideal destination for a day out. The park's scenic beauty, with its lawns, pond, and statues, also makes it a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Whether you're visiting for the carousel or the diverse range of activities, Bushnell Park offers a rich and engaging experience for all.

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