
A Magical Early Evening Ride at SeaGlass Carousel – A Must-Do in NYC!
The SeaGlass Carousel in Battery Park was an absolute delight during our family’s spring break trip to NYC, and it quickly became one of our favorite memories! We visited in the early evening as the sun was setting, and the timing couldn’t have been more perfect—the golden hues of the sunset paired with the carousel’s glowing lights created a truly magical atmosphere. This isn’t your typical carousel—it’s a mesmerizing, aquarium-themed experience that transports you into an underwater world. The moment we stepped into the spiraling glass and steel pavilion, inspired by the chambered nautilus, we were captivated by the vibrant, glowing fiberglass fish and the immersive lights and music. Our kids were thrilled to hop into the massive fish seats (there are 30 of them!), and as the ride began, they spun and swirled in patterns that made it feel like we were swimming through the ocean. The lack of a traditional center pole gave us unobstructed views, and the color-changing LED lights created a stunning, bioluminescent glow that was even more breathtaking against the backdrop of the setting sun. The carousel’s history ties back to The Battery’s past as the original home of the New York Aquarium, which opened in 1896, and you can feel that connection in every detail. The music, composed specifically for the ride, added to the enchanting atmosphere, and the whole experience felt like a blend of art, architecture, and pure fun. At $6 per ride (as of early 2025), it’s a fantastic value for such a unique attraction in NYC. The staff was welcoming and friendly, helping us choose our fish and ensuring everyone was settled for the 3.5-minute ride. The location in Battery Park is perfect, with gorgeous views of the Statue of Liberty just outside and the Staten Island Ferry nearby. After the ride, we headed straight to the nearby playgrounds in Battery Park so the kids could burn off some energy, which was a fantastic addition to our visit—they had a blast playing while we enjoyed the park’s lively atmosphere as the evening set in. The SeaGlass Carousel is a one-of-a-kind experience that’s perfect for all ages—our whole family, from kids to adults, loved it. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to add a touch of magic to their NYC trip, and we can’t wait to return on...
Read moreI love this Seaglass Carousel, and I love taking visitors there. I took my mother there, she she had great time, although a bit afraid of the how much it moved at the beginning. Once you know what they do, how they move, the rest is fun! I also took my in-laws there and they had great time also.
First of all, it is beautiful. The name seaglass really fits well with the design. You get ride in the fish that looks like they are made of seaglass, and they lit up in different colors during the ride. It is truly a magical atmosphere.
The rides that are placed in the circles move up and down, and turns 360 degrees. The rides that are outside of the circles only moves up and down. For small children or the ones afraid of heights and too much movement should get on the stationary rides, outside the circle.
The ride is $5 per person, and I hear some people say it is expensive, but come on, this is NYC, and it is not for little kids-only, boring ride. It is for anyone and everyone, for kids and adults! I think the value you receive at $5 is pretty good, I actually thought the ride was cheap for fun entertainment.
Staffs here are not very friendly, but they do the job. They make sure that everyone is buckled in before they start. They won't rush you to get off after the ride (since everyone wants to get a perfect photo or two, or five). I still love this Seaglass Carousel after a few visits, and I will continue to bring my friends and family here for more...
Read moreThe SeaGlass Carousel is an enchanting gem nestled in the heart of Battery Park. From the moment you lay eyes on it, you're transported to an underwater world, where luminescent sea creatures dance and twirl to the symphony of lights and music.
For just $5, one gets to experience this whimsical journey – an absolute bargain for the sheer magic it delivers. Each ride not only ignites joy but also stirs up a childlike wonder, making it a must-visit for both children and adults.
But the carousel isn't the only star of the show; its location is equally praiseworthy. After indulging in the carousel's delights, visitors can meander around Battery Park, soaking in its verdant landscapes and picturesque views. It's the perfect spot to relax, maybe enjoy a picnic, and just take in the beauty of New York.
As for accessibility, the proximity to the 1, 2, 4, and 6 subway lines ensures that reaching the carousel is a breeze. It's a detail that makes the experience even more hassle-free for both locals and tourists.
A notable mention also goes to the well-maintained facilities. The clean and free bathrooms are a testament to the care and thoughtfulness put into ensuring visitors have a comfortable experience.
In summary, the SeaGlass Carousel is not just a ride; it's an experience – a beautiful blend of art, technology, and nature. Whether you're a New Yorker or just passing through, it's a spectacle you shouldn't miss. Highly...
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