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Best Merry Go Rounds In Los Angeles

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(credit: sxc.hu/asifthebes)

A trip to the Merry Go Round is an old fashioned thrill for all ages. Los Angeles boasts five fanciful carousels to choose from. All are very inexpensive, and make an ideal destination for a family outing. Bring a picnic along and make an afternoon of your visit. Or just do a quick stop to break up a busy day.

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(credit: Santa Monica Pier)

Santa Monica Pier Carousel
200 Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 458-8901
www.santamonicapier.org

One of the most favorite carousels is the one at the Santa Monica Pier. Built in 1916, the carousel is adjacent to the amusement rides and the beach, making it an ideal stop to include in a day at the beach. It is also a great spot to hold a kids' birthday party.

Griffith Park Merry Go Round
(credit: Jonas A./yelp)

Griffith Park Merry Go Round
4730 Crystal Springs Dr
Los Angeles, CA 90027
(323) 665-3051
www.laparks.org

Located in Griffith Park not too far from Shane's Inspiration Playground is a pretty Carousel that was built in 1926. It is open every weekend all year long and on all holidays. In the summer, they expand their hours and are open not only weekends, but also every weekday except Monday from 11am to 5pm.

topanga-carousel westfield merry go round
(credit: Sean Lewis)

Westfield Topanga Mall Carousel
6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd
Canoga Park, CA 91303
(818) 594-8732
www.westfield.com

Although this carousel lacks a little charm as it is inside a bustling mall, this is a very elaborate two-tiered carousel. It is also conveniently located in a family friendly zone near Target, several children's boutiques, and a kids' play area. It feels shiny and new and is worth a trip. The kids always want to go on the top level.

Encino Shopping Center Merry Go Round
(credit: Tora M./yelp)

Encino Shopping Center
16101 Ventura Blvd
Encino, CA 91436
(818) 981-5263

This small carousel is nestled outside between some shops and offices, but as it is the only Merry Go Round in the Valley can make a nice treat for some fun seeking children.

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(credit: South Coast Plaza)

South Coast Plaza
3333 Bristol Street
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 436-2000
www.southcoastplaza.com

South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa is a huge mall, but it is at least light and airy. Their Merry Go Round is open during mall hours and is only a dollar a ride. For Easter they change out the horses for bunnies!

Lee Rose Emery is the writer of the award-winning blog LACityMom, "tips from the carpool lane..."
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