Looff Carousel
Celebrate 115 Years of Joy: Spins, Golden Rings, and Memories
Generations have climbed aboard the Looff Carousel—from reaching for golden rings to choosing their favorite horse, it’s a true local treasure that never loses its charm. Since 1911, this beloved National Historic Landmark has been a centerpiece of Santa Cruz nostalgia, hand‑carved, timeless, and full of heart.
Looff Carousel 115th Anniversary
August 1-31, 2026
Catch the Golden Ring!
Take a spin on the Looff Carousel all August long for your chance to catch a coveted Golden Ring! Each day, 10 lucky riders will snag a Golden Ring—redeem yours for a fun collectible pin at The Walk or keep it as a special keepsake.
See ride operating hours.
Carousel Dollar Days
August 10–31
Mondays & Fridays
Don’t miss this exclusive throwback deal! Enjoy a ride on the historic Looff Carousel for just $1. It’s the perfect way to celebrate 115 years of joy, laughter, and timeless fun.
Share Your Favorite Memory
Celebrate generations of carousel magic and return to the memories that started it all. Share your favorite Looff Carousel photos, from special times with grandparents and parents to the moments you now share with family and friends of your own, or tell us a story that still warms your heart. Throughout August, we’ll be highlighting your photos and memories on our social media, bringing these special moments to life once more. Join us in celebrating the past and keeping the memories turning for generations to come.
Music
Three antique band organs are a special highlight of the Looff Carousel. The Boardwalk’s original Ruth & Sohn band organ has played alongside the carousel since 1911. The fully-restored antique received a beautiful new facade in 2009. In addition to the original Ruth organ, a rare Wurlitzer 165 band organ from the former Playland-at-the Beach amusement park in San Francisco now shares playing time with the Ruth. A smaller Wurlitzer 146 was added to the collection in 2011.
Cost of ride:
$7.00 (7 points) or use your Ride Wristband.
Height Requirements:
Riders under 36″ may ride with chaperone
History
In 1911, one of the greatest carousel carvers of all time, Charles I.D. Looff, delivered a shimmering new carousel to the Boardwalk.
For the Grand Opening of the new ride, 100 rocking chairs were brought into the “Hippodrome” so that mothers could sit comfortably while keeping an eye on their children.