Palace Amusements

Palace Amusements was a Victorian-style indoor amusement venue in Asbury Park featuring multiple floors of entertainment. The building contained a hand-carved carousel, a steam-powered Ferris wheel, arcade games, and fun houses spread across different levels.

Ernest Schnitzler founded the palace in 1888 as a carousel house and operated it continuously until its closure in 1988. It survived the Great Depression and remained an entertainment destination at the Jersey Shore for nearly a century.

The distinctive Tillie face mural on the building's exterior became part of the local visual identity and represented the playful character of Asbury Park's entertainment culture.

The venue was located near the Atlantic Ocean within walking distance of downtown Asbury Park, making it easy to reach. Attractions spread across multiple floors allowed visitors to spend time at their own pace without heavy congestion in any single area.

The Ferris wheel, designed in 1895 and powered by steam, transported riders outside the building to experience views of the Atlantic Ocean. This combination of mechanical innovation and outdoor adventure made the experience particularly memorable for visitors of that era.

Location: New Jersey

Architectural style: Victorian architecture

Website: http://palaceamusements.com

GPS coordinates: 40.21778,-74.00354

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:41