Ride the Cafesjian Carousel at Como Park FREE select days this summer.
Have you noticed a large, colorful and musical carousel as you walk through Como Park? Check your calendar, as there are a few days this summer you can ride the carousel for FREE!
The Cafesjian Carousel is named after the late Gerald L. Cafesjian. It is one of only three operating carousels in its original paint. This carousel has been restored to its 1914 beauty.
The Cafesjian Carousel spent its first 75 years at the Minnesota State Fair. In 1988 it was headed for a New York Auction. Gerald L. Cafesjian contributed the major share of money needed to rescue the carousel from auction, restore it, and build its pavilion in Como Park.
Ride Cafesjian’s Carousel at Como Park FREE
There are a few opportunities to enjoy a free ride on the Cafesjian Carousel at Como Park this year:
- May 26
- June 30
- July 28
- August 25
- September 29
If you’re planning to visit Como another day, keep these other discount days in mind:
— May 21 is the Twilight PJ Party from 7 – 10 pm. Get a 50% discount ($2) if you wear PJs! There will also be special band organ music, decorations, and outfits…and you’ll get to see the lights at night!
— September 7 is the 112th Birthday Bash! There will be special giveaways, $2 tickets, and volunteers and staff will be in 1914-era attire.
The carousel operates 11 am – 4 pm Thursdays – Mondays from May 1 through Labor Day. It is also open Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am – 4 pm from September 5 – November 1 as well as the Thursday and Friday of MEA Week. The carousel does not operate when the temperature is below 45° or above 95°.
If you are not riding on a free day, carousel ticket prices are $4, with a few exceptions. Children under the age of 2 ride free with a paying adult. In addition, adults 90 and older may ride free.
Cafesjian’s Carousel by the Numbers
Notice the intricate details as you ride the Carousel:
- 68 hand carved horses and 2 hand carved chariots
- 4 rows of horses that move up and down as the carousel turns
- 18 scenic paintings located around the upper rim, created by volunteer artists
- 1 fully restored Wurlitzer 153 band organ which replaces the original organ that was destroyed by fire in 1939
Cafesjian’s Carousel is located in St. Paul’s Como Park, south of the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory and Visitor Center.
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Laura is a kindergarten teacher and a busy mom of six who loves finding smart ways to save. She balances teaching and family life while always hunting for deals that make life more affordable and fun.
Originally from southern Minnesota, Laura has called the Twin Cities home for over fifteen years. In her rare free moments, she enjoys reading, spending time with loved ones, and savoring a hot cup of coffee.
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