Victorian Gardens

The resting carnival by natalac

Victorian Gardens is one of few amusement parks within the New York metropolitan area. This small but well-designed park opened in 2003 and is the summer occupant of the Wollman ice skating rink.

The park hosts 12 rides. Among them are: the Aeromax, which allows both children and adults to fly in pint-sized airplanes; the Kite Flyer, which imitates hang gliding; the Convoy, which is an auto-style train ride; the Red Baron, which allows riders to pilot imitation antique airplanes; Mini Mouse, a roller coaster for young children (though parents are welcome); the Jump Around, a bouncy ride especially appealing to children; and Samba Balloon, which allows children to pilot their own hot air balloons.

Of particular interest to teenagers and adults are: the Fun Slide, a three-story-tall slide; Family Swinger, a classic swing ride; Rockin’ Tug, a traditional carnival swinging boat ride; and the Hydro Racer, a fast-paced water ride.

Classic carnival games at Victorian Gardens include Whac A Mole, in which players can compete to hit the most moles with their mallets, and Rising Water, a water gun game.

One of the unique and special things about Victorian Gardens is that though it is a small park and the rides are compact, all of the attractions accommodate both adults and children. However, the majority of the rides are designed for children between the ages of 2 and 12. The amusement park is a controlled environment and is designed to allow parents to relax while they monitor their children. The amusement park also hosts birthday parties and special events. It is open only in the summer, and is located at 63rd Street and Central Park Drive. A pocket map of Central Park will make navigating easier.