Tilden Regional Park Merry-Go-Round

+ lots of parking
+/- need to GPS directly to the merry-go-round, can't just walk here from another part of the park
+ $4/ride but parents can ride free with kids under 38" that need assistance
+/- its VERY FAST towards the end, might be scary for small kids
+ stamps and markers near the carousel as a fun activity

Website says to make reservations but we didn't have any line on the weekday. Definitely check the schedule first before going to make sure they're open.

It's def cute for a small something to do but not as great as I was hoping for it to be
The carousel is fun, pretty, and fast and you def have to ride it or else the trip isn't worth it
The cafe was kinda underwhelming
I ordered a hot chocolate hoping it would be cute because the menu literally said it comes with sprinkles but I just got a closed plan white cup and when I opening the lid to look inside there was no sprinkles :/
There are a lot of decorations outside which are nice to look at but tbh there wasn't as much to do/see as I thought there'd be

After riding the steam train we thought we would check out the merry go round. It is hard to find. It is indoor and connected to a gift shop and snack area where you purchase tickets. Tickets are 4 dollars each. We purchased tickets and a popcorn which was really good. We had our 2 year old granddaughter with us and let her parents tag along;).
It wasn't busy at all.
The young kids that work here are noticeably not interested in being here or smiling.

That old merry go round went fast! I mean really fast! Too fast even. Much too fast for small children and young grandmas expecting normal merry go round speed.

We have 3 leftover tickets so we will be back and try again.

I find it incredible how they can put a big merry go round in the middle of nowhere. Not really much else to see though. Plenty of parking. People usually dont stay here too long. Just let your kids go on a few rides and be on your way. Prices as of 1/5/2024 is $4 per ticket or $24 for 7 tickets. They still had their Christmas setup inside. It seemed like they were already starting to take down their Christmas decorations that were outside.

Right next to the merry go round is a cafe. I was surprised to see that they sell fentons ice cream. This might be the only place that sells food at Tilden park. Ive seen an area at lake anza that looks like it sells food but it's never been opened when I go there.

This Merry Go Round is a classic. We took our 3 year old granddaughter twice in the last few weeks. The first time we went the carousel it went very fast - so fast that she was holding on to the pole very tightly. I could tell it was fast just by watching it go by. The second time - this past weekend - it was a little slower so not sure who or how they dictate the speed.

Tickets are $4 each or 7 for $22 - available at the gift shop.

In addition to the carousel - you can walk around and see the exhibit inside. There's a small screen promoting some Disney classics (ie. Dory, Zootopia, etc.) and there's a coloring/stamp station for kids.

Outside the carousel - because it was Easter - they had wooden photo stations so you can take pictures. I'm sure they will update depending on the season.

There was a private party going on inside a small section - so I guess you can rent some space which is a great option.

My 3 year old granddaughter had a fun time and for me, that's what counts.

I have always had fun at Tilden Park! We make sure to bring lettuce and celery for the animals.
So take a bag lunch and something to drink and enjoy the whole day.

This is a sweet park scene. All the different venues (merry-go-round, train ride, petting farm) are spread out and so to hit them all one must pop in and out of the car and travel a couple of miles, but it's definitely worth it. Our group really enjoyed the day - especially the merry-go-round which is very speedy in a swirling and spinning make-your-head-spin of way ;)

We love Tilden park. This review is strictly for the merry go round. This thing is old, very old, but very well kept. My issue is that it was going wayyyy too fast. It's operated my several teenagers. I told them numerous times to slow it down and they just ignored me. My wife, 2 year old son, and I were freaked out as to how fast it was going.

The historic Berkeley Tilden Park carousel is a jewel to visit. Leisurely way to spend a couple of hours with young ones. Tickets purchased in a book make multiple rides convenient. The staff are lovely. The music is festive, carousel well-maintained and colorful. Plenty of parking and bench seating. If you didn't bring snacks or a picnic, the café food is a fine alternative with snacks or meals in kiddie portions too. My children loved it and now my grandboys do, too!!

Another fun place to take the kids on a fun day adventure exploring the Tilden park. There are so may awesome places to walk to and I'm so glad this place was recommended to us. We love nature and exploring outside so anytime my son gets to do that it's a guaranteed a day full of fun.