Open Daily

The Rose Carousel, crafted by Brass Ring Entertainment of Sun Valley, California is the only carousel on Vancouver Island. The menagerie includes thirty animals ranging from bears, to horses, to ostriches, to zebras and mirrors the world from which The Gardens draws its visitors. The designs were hand picked by Robin Clarke, The Gardens' owner and great grand daughter of Jennie Butchart, in consultation with an artist from North Carolina. The carvings were done by some of the few remaining carvers of carousel art. Each animal is carved from basswood and took many months to complete. There are also two chariots able to accommodate disabled persons.

The Rose Carousel is housed within the 700 sq m (7,534 sq ft) Children’s Pavilion, which has a dome with a 23m (75 ft) clear span, a full-fronted glass façade and a roof planted with native plant species. The pavilion also has an event room for such things as children’s birthday parties.

Carousel rides are $2, including taxes. Tokens may be purchased in the Children's Pavilion. (They may be used on another visit, so they make nice little gifts.)

Those under 107 cm (42 in.) must be assisted by an adult standing to the animal's side. These adults are not required to buy a token. While only one person may ride an animal, the chariots may have multiple riders. One spot can be made available for standard wheelchairs.

The Carousel operates from 1/2 hour after The Gardens opens.

For details on Children's Birthday Parties, click here.