The Elizabeth Quay Carousel brings a lovely touch of old-world charm to the heart of Perth. Set beside the water in the Elizabeth Quay precinct, this traditional Venetian carousel is a delight whether you are visiting with grandchildren, meeting family in the city, or simply enjoying a wander along the river.
This is no ordinary fairground ride. The carousel was built in the Veneto region of Northern Italy by Italian artisans, with hand-painted horses, carriages and Venetian-style artwork. It was brought to Perth by Rohan Milne of Rohan Jewellers, who was inspired by the joy of traditional European carousels after seeing one with his family at La Concha Beach in San Sebastian, Spain. His vision was to create something beautiful and timeless for Perth families to enjoy for generations.
The result is a wonderfully nostalgic attraction. The horses are colourful and beautifully detailed, with traditional carousel music adding to the atmosphere. There are also carriages for those who prefer a gentler ride, making it a pleasant option if climbing onto a horse is not ideal. It feels more like a moving piece of art than a simple amusement ride.
The carousel is especially popular with families, and it is an easy outing to enjoy with grandchildren. Children under 1.1 metres must be accompanied by an adult, and children under that height ride free with a paying adult. Riders must be over one year old. If you are accompanying a child and standing alongside them rather than riding separately, only one ticket is required for the rider.
Tickets are available from the ticket booth at the carousel. Current prices are $8 per person or $20 for three tickets, with a public holiday surcharge applying. It is worth checking the official website or social media before visiting, as hours can change due to weather.
Accessibility has been considered, with a wheelchair ramp available. Companions or carers can ride free when accompanying a person who uses a wheelchair. It is important to note that not all wheelchair models, particularly customised or electric chairs, may be suited to the ride. The carousel team can provide ramp access, though carers or members of your party will need to assist with manoeuvring wheelchairs if needed.
For safety, riders need to be in good health and free from heart conditions, pregnancy, and back or neck injuries. Food and drinks are not allowed on the carousel, wet clothing is not permitted, and loose items should be secured before the ride begins. Cameras are allowed if properly secured, although selfie sticks are not permitted.
The Elizabeth Quay Carousel is very easy to reach by public transport. Elizabeth Quay Train Station and Busport are just across the road, about 160 metres away. The free CAT bus also stops at Barrack Street Jetty, around 550 metres from the carousel. If you are coming from South Perth, the Transperth ferry to Elizabeth Quay Jetty makes for a lovely scenic arrival.
There is limited paid parking at Barrack Street Jetty, with more parking options nearby at places such as the Convention Centre, Council House, Terrace Road, Concert Hall, The Quadrant, Westralia Square and Point Fraser. As with most city outings, public transport is often the easiest choice.
The carousel also sits in a great spot for making a day of it. You can enjoy a stroll around the quay, stop for a coffee or lunch nearby, admire the public art, or simply sit by the water and take in the city views. It is a charming little outing that brings together nostalgia, craftsmanship and a touch of European magic in one of Perth’s prettiest riverside locations.
Elizabeth Quay Carousel
Address: Elizabeth Quay, Geoffrey Bolton Avenue, Perth WA 6000
Opening hours: Saturdays and Sundays, 10am to 6pm. Hours may vary due to weather and seasonal changes, so check the official website or social media before visiting. Public holiday surcharge applies.
Website: Elizabeth Quay Carousel
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