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Eldridge Park

4.6
·511 reviews·Elmira, United States

Historic park with carousel, paddle boats, mini-golf, splash pad, and scenic trails. Open seasonally.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, less heat

CrowdLow
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1890s Looff Carousel, fastest traditional carousel in the United States!

Eldridge Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, less heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic park with carousel, paddle boats, mini-golf, splash pad, and scenic trails. Open seasonally.

4.6
(511 reviews)

"Lovely place to walk with lots to do, especially if you have kids."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Watch for Geese!

Lots of geese mean lots of poop. Stick to paved paths and visit early to avoid the mess.

🎠 Catch the Brass Ring!

Try your luck catching the brass ring on the carousel for a free ride!

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 511 reviews

Type

Park

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Carousel

Historic Carousel

Main park area

Ride a beautifully preserved carousel, one of fewer than 20 in the US with a brass ring feeder!

Splash Pad Fun

Splash Pad Fun

Near playgrounds

Cool off at the splash pad, a hit with kids of all ages during warmer months.

Scenic Pond Loop

Scenic Pond Loop

Around the lagoon

Enjoy a walk or run on the loop around the lagoon, offering pleasant views.

Mini Golf & Paddle Boats

Mini Golf & Paddle Boats

Near the carousel

Classic park fun with mini-golf and paddle boats for a leisurely afternoon.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Geese & the Crowds

Eldridge Park is a lovely spot, but be prepared for geese and their droppings, especially near the pond. Early mornings are best to avoid both the heat and the mess. Consider visiting on weekdays if possible to enjoy the rides and mini-golf with fewer people.

Seasonal Fun & Amenities

The park's main attractions, like the carousel, paddle boats, and mini-golf, operate from May to September. New year-round restrooms are being installed, which will be a welcome addition for all-season visits. Check operating hours before you go!

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, less heat
Crowd
Low
When
May - September
Why
Rides & attractions open
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Pleasant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Come on down for opening night! We are open till 8pm! #eldridgepark #eldridgeparkelmira #elmirany #fyp #foryou #foryourpage #trending
@eldridge.park
10K likes • 329.1K views

🎯 Watch for Geese!

Lots of geese mean lots of poop. Stick to paved paths and visit early to avoid the mess. Reddit

🎠 Catch the Brass Ring!

Try your luck catching the brass ring on the carousel for a free ride! TikTok

Elmira NY needs a new skatepark! 🛹🛹🛹 Two minute skatepark review. Eldridge Park, Elmira NY gets 1.5 stars ⭐️ . . #twominuteskateparkreview #elmirany #eldridgeparkelmira #skateparkreview #makeamericaskateagain
@breakingfreeskatepark
4K likes • 63.3K views
Ever had to cut your visit to Eldridge Park short because of... well, you know? That problem is finally getting solved! 🥳 The Elmhurst Park District broke ground last week on brand new restrooms at Eldridge Park as part of the park renovation referendum! We’re talking heated, year-round facilities. No more seasonal closures or rushing home when nature calls! 🙌 Construction is happening right no...
heyelmhurst
86 likes • 3.7K views

💦 Splash Pad Ready

Bring swimsuits for the splash pad, a great free activity for kids. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll want comfy shoes for walking the pond loop or exploring the park. Reddit

Elmira NY needs a new skatepark! 🛹🛹🛹 Two minute skatepark review. Eldridge Park, Elmira NY gets 1.5 stars ⭐️ . . #twominuteskateparkreview #elmirany #eldridgeparkelmira #skateparkreview #makeamericaskateagain #skatepark
breakingfreeskatepark
298 likes • 6.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Watch for Geese!

Lots of geese mean lots of poop. Stick to paved paths and visit early to avoid the mess. Reddit

🎠 Catch the Brass Ring!

Try your luck catching the brass ring on the carousel for a free ride! TikTok

💦 Splash Pad Ready

Bring swimsuits for the splash pad, a great free activity for kids. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll want comfy shoes for walking the pond loop or exploring the park. Reddit

🛹 Skatepark Needs Love

The skatepark is outdated and could use an upgrade. TikTokInstagramReddit

🚗 Parking Availability

Parking can fill up, especially on busy days. Arrive early if possible. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(511 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Eldridge Park is a beloved local spot with a lot to offer, especially for families, including a historic carousel and a splash pad. While many appreciate the variety of activities and the scenic pond loop, some visitors are put off by the abundance of geese and their droppings, as well as occasional maintenance issues in picnic areas. The outdated skatepark is also a point of improvement for some.

"This could be a very enjoyable place, I see they have a splash pad now. We often grab a sub from one of the local vendors and enjoy the atmosphere.
I really feel the geese are overwhelming and should be removed, it is very difficult to walk and not step in geese droppings, totally disgusting, people we have spoke with feel the same about the geese and the mess they create.
Some geese are very food aggressive as well, it really is a shame.

The pavilions are dirty and unkempt, cigarette butts / trash cans overfull / picnic tables just dirty / grime and of course the geese gifts are present.

I see others fishing not sure what they catch, they appear to be having a good time.

Many out walking around the pond not sure the distance around.

The picture is the best spot we could find that day free of geese gifts, although you can see some trash present under the table other spots much worse.

So far it has not become a hangout for the homeless society.

I am really not sure what could be done about the geese, the lack of maintenance and geese are the reason I gave it a 3 star instead of a higher rating.

Edit: Another meatball sub day so I took more pictures and asked some folks about the fishing.
Carp Bass Sunnys Catfish seem to be what most are catching."

Ron Randall

"Great little park. They have rides for kids in the summer plus mini golf and paddle boats!! I love walking around the pond it's relaxing!"

Samantha Becken

"Lovely place to walk with lots to do especially if you have kids. We go early to beat the heat and enjoy the scenery."

Shadra Bruce

What People Like

Historic carousel
Splash pad fun
Scenic pond loop

What People Dislike

Geese and droppings
Outdated skatepark
Picnic area cleanliness

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Eldridge Park is located in Elmira, New York. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options may vary, so check local transit schedules if you're not driving. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at Eldridge Park. However, it can fill up quickly on busy days, so arriving early is recommended. TikTok

The park has a main loop around the lagoon, perfect for walking or running. You'll also find paths connecting the various attractions like the carousel, playgrounds, and sports fields. Reddit

While Eldridge Park offers a variety of activities, the surrounding Elmira area has other local attractions and dining options to explore. TikTok

The main paths around the lagoon are generally accessible. Some areas might be less so, especially if there's been recent rain. The new restroom facilities are expected to be fully accessible. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Eldridge Park itself is generally free. However, some attractions like the carousel, mini-golf, and paddle boats may have separate fees. Reddit

The park is open seasonally, typically from May to September for its main attractions. Specific hours for rides and activities can vary, so it's best to check their official schedule. TikTok

For general park entry, no advance tickets are usually needed. For specific rides or activities, it's advisable to check if advance purchase is available or recommended, especially during peak season. TikTok

Yes, Eldridge Park hosts various events throughout the year, including seasonal celebrations like an Easter egg hunt. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements. TikTok

While the exact cost can vary, carousel rides are typically an affordable attraction. Catching the brass ring can even earn you a free ride! TikTok

🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience

Eldridge Park offers a carousel, paddle boats, mini-golf, playgrounds, a splash pad, sports fields (soccer, basketball), and a lagoon. There's also a skatepark, though it's noted as outdated. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, Eldridge Park has playgrounds, including a notable one with a Hot Wheels track, which is a fun hidden gem for kids. Instagram+1

Yes, people fish in the lagoon at Eldridge Park, catching species like carp, bass, sunfish, and catfish. Reddit

The skatepark at Eldridge Park is described as outdated and in need of work by visitors. TikTokInstagramReddit

New, year-round heated restrooms are being installed at Eldridge Park, which will significantly improve visitor comfort and accessibility. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, you can often find local vendors selling food like subs at Eldridge Park. Bringing your own picnic is also a popular option. Reddit

Absolutely! Eldridge Park has pavilions and picnic tables, making it a great spot for a family picnic. Just be mindful of the geese. Reddit

Food options often include casual fare like subs from local vendors. It's a good idea to check for any on-site concessions or food trucks during your visit. Reddit

Yes, the surrounding Elmira area offers various dining options if you're looking for more choices beyond the park's immediate offerings. TikTok

Bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted and encouraged, especially for picnics. This allows for more variety and can be a budget-friendly option. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The historic carousel, the scenic lagoon, and the playgrounds offer great photo opportunities. Capture the kids enjoying the splash pad or the unique Hot Wheels track. TikTokInstagram

Yes, with its variety of attractions and scenic spots, Eldridge Park is a lovely backdrop for family photos, especially during the spring and summer months. Reddit

Absolutely! The carousel is a highlight and a popular subject for photos. Try to capture the intricate details and the joy of riders. TikTok

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing serene shots. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour light. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial or professional shoots, it's always best to check with park management for any specific guidelines or permits. TikTok

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