Turnstile facts for kids

Turnstiles at a subway station

A turnstile is a special type of gate. It is also called a baffle gate. Turnstiles are designed to let only one person pass through at a time. They can also be set up to allow people to move in just one direction.

Sometimes, a turnstile only lets people pass if they pay. This could be by putting in a coin, using a ticket, or scanning a pass. When used for paying, it's sometimes called a faregate. You often see these in places like public transport stations, where they act as a ticket barrier. They can also be found at pay toilets.

What is a Turnstile?

A turnstile is a mechanical gate that controls who can enter or exit an area. It works by having rotating arms or barriers that move only when a person is allowed to pass. This helps manage crowds and ensures that only authorized people can go through.

How Do Turnstiles Work?

Turnstiles can work in different ways. Some are simple, like the wooden ones used to keep animals in a field. Others are very high-tech. Modern turnstiles often use sensors or card readers. When you scan a ticket or a special card, the turnstile unlocks for a short time. This lets one person walk through before it locks again.

Some turnstiles have arms that drop down or swing open. Others are full-height, like a revolving door, to prevent people from jumping over them.

Where are Turnstiles Used?

Turnstiles are used in many different places where people need to be controlled or counted.

• Sports Stadiums: To check tickets and manage the flow of fans entering a game.
• Amusement Parks: To make sure everyone has a valid ticket before riding attractions.
• Museums: To count visitors and ensure only paying guests enter.
• Public Transport: At subway, train, or bus stations to check tickets or passes.
• Offices and Buildings: For security, to make sure only employees or authorized visitors can enter certain areas.

They help keep places safe and organized. They also make sure that people pay for services when needed.

Images for kids

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  A wooden turnstile in its primary form, to keep livestock penned in (Zwierzyniec, Poland).

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  Optical drop arm turnstile

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  Full height stainless steel turnstile

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  Turnstile inside a Moscow bus

See also

In Spanish: Molinete (barrera de acceso) para niños