8. The Forest Park Carousel is a National Landmark

Forest Park Carousel

Hidden in the middle of the third largest park in Queens, the Forest Park Carousel is a National Landmark and offers a fun ride during a hot New York summer. The carousel was originally built in 1903 and survived until 1966, when it tragically burned down in a fire. The current carousel is originally from Massachusetts and was moved to the site in 1972. In 2004, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places because of its local significance in Kew Gardens and Forest Hills.

Unfortunately, in 2009 the Forest Park Carousel closed when its owner New York One LLC did not renew its contract. News of the carousel’s closing spread throughout the local community, which organized and petitioned the City to save the historic structure. In 2012, the Forest Park Carousel reopened to great fanfare and was designated a New York City Landmark only one year later. It has been operating since 2012 with additional rides and a modern concession stand.