In 1994 the Balboa Park carousel won the NCA Historic Carousel Award in recognition of it's historic significance, quality, maintenance, regular schedule of operation and the community support. Our carousel continues to be available to the public as an operating machine. It is located adjacent to the San Diego Zoo. The carousel is a Herschell-Spillman menagerie model built in 1910. It is one of the few that remain in operation. It was originally built for Los Angeles' Luna Park, then moved to Coronado's Tent City and various locations within Balboa Park before finally settling at its current location along Park Boulevard. Except for two animals it is original as are the hand-painted murals surrounding the upper portion of the carousel and the military band music. Take the kids down to see this wonder. Let them ride and try their chance at getting the brass ring. This carousel is one of the few in the world still offering the brass ring game for everyone taking the 5-minute ride. Your child will have a great story to tell if the brass ring can be there own.