11 Carousels Chicago Kids Should Give a Whirl

Shila:  This outdoor, hand-painted carousel is only one part of Navy Pier where families will also find restaurants, cruises, children's museum, sweeping views of the city and lake, the 200-foot Centennial Wheel and more. The 44-foot carousel depict scenes of Navy Pier’s history.

Shila:  The Lincoln Park Zoo carousel features beautiful hand-carved animals, many of which are represented in the zoo itself. This outdoor carousel accommodates up to 50 riders and is a great add-on to your adventures within the zoo!

Shila:  Orland Square Mall is a shopping mall in Orland Park, Illinois. It is the largest mall in the southwest suburbs of Chicago. On the lower level, and in the center of the mall rests a hand crafted carousel. Its murals are hand-painted by Venetian artists. There's also a children's play area located alongside the ride.

Shila:  The Brookfield Zoo is located outside Chicago, in Brookfield, IL, and is one of the nation’s largest zoos. The carousel is the largest non-restored wooden carousel in the country, and features 72 animal-themed figures to ride as well as a few stationary chariots.

Shila:  Located indoors at the Jack A. Claes Pavilion, the 28-foot carousel at Jumps n' Jiggles features 18 hand-painted jumping horses and a swan chariot with unlimited rides. A soft play area and climbing structure with maze tunnels is located in the adjacent room.

Shila:   Pirates Cove, located in Chicago's northeastern suburbs, is referred to as Elk Grove's "hidden treasure." This is a local theme park, though non-resident families often make the trip to uncover what the pirates have in store! Kids love the playful pirate ship, paddle boats, slides, carousel, train and daily performances.

Gina I.:  Lambs Farm petting zoo is the place to see horses, llamas, goats, miniature cattle, sheep, chicks, rabbits, and potbelly pigs! While you're there be sure to stop by the Discover Center to see how you "measure up" against some of the animals on the farm. Onsite there is also a mini-train, old-world themed carousel and a fun miniature golf course perfect for the entire family. Best of all, when you visit Lambs Farm, you are supporting adults with developmental disabilities and honoring the contribution they make to the community.

Shila:  With 106 beautiful carved ornate chariots, horses, and animals, the Columbia Carousel at Six Flags Great America's theme park stands over 100 feet tall. There are also over 1,000 lights that outline the carousel and it accommodates over 100 riders.

Shila:  Fox Valley Mall, formerly Westfield Fox Valley, is a shopping mall in Aurora, Illinois. A carousel as high as the mall's top level is located by the food court.

Shila:  You can ride a carousel at Blackberry Farm where pioneer life is re-created through historical interpreters, demonstrations and hands-on fun. Check out the Blacksmith Shop, One-Room School House, Pioneer Cabin and more. Admission to Fox Valley Park District's Blackberry Farm includes unlimited rides on the train, hay wagon, pedal tractors, paddle boats, carousel and ponies rides. This is a very popular farm for families especially during the fall season where special events like Pumpkin Weekends are enjoyed by many.

Sarah D.:  Santa's Village is an amusement park for the little ones! With amazing attractions sure to delight your toddler (and something for your pre-teens as well), Santa's Village is a gem northwest of Chicago. The Azoosment Country Carousel has been beautifully restored to ensure safe enjoyment for children of all ages.