What's not to love about a carousel? For a charming mix of music, whimsy and history, here are five to consider:
Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum
North Tonawanda, New York
Visit the one-of-a-kind Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum, housed in the original factory building, where you can ride two antique carousels and delve into their history. The larger is 40 feet in diameter with hundreds of lights and 36 hand-carved horses, some dating to the late 1890s. Rotating at 6.5 revolutions per minute, the carousel was originally intended as a thrill ride for adults. The "kiddie carousel" in the Children's Gallery was created in the 1940s for the junior set to ride without the help of adults. It has been completely restored. Ask about carving and restoration demonstrations and other family events scheduled throughout the year.
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For more: carrouselmuseum.org
Hazel Patton Riverfront Carousel
Salem, Oregon Located in the city's 23-acre riverfront park, this vintage-style carousel was lovingly created as a community project. Dozens of local families worked to prepare the site, even carve and hand paint the animals. With old-fashioned organ music in the background, families now enjoy seasonal celebrations, birthday parties and more with the carousel as centerpiece. The gift shop offers handcrafted ornaments, books and gifts to provide continuing support for the community treasure. Open year-round, visitors can climb aboard the carousel's critters or hop in a covered wagon.
For more: salemcarousel.org
Carousel Wishes and Dreams
Children's Museum of Indianapolis
Experience the magic of one of the three oldest surviving Dentzel menagerie carousels in the world. It's the centerpiece of Carousel Wishes and Dreams, a permanent exhibit at Indianapolis' children's museum. This revolving gem was originally installed in 1917 at the city's Broad Ripple Park. After the building in which it was housed collapsed, the carved animals were salvaged, restored and eventually lowered through the roof to their home on the fourth floor of the expansive Children's Museum of Indianapolis. This carousel is designated as a National Historic Landmark.
For more: childrensmuseum.org/carousel
Carrousel Belle Epoque
Avignon, France
For families visiting the Provencal city of Avignon, in southeastern France, the historic merry-go-round on the main square will be a draw. Kids (and their parents) will be eager to climb aboard the colorful wooden horses or snuggle into other fanciful seating. The city, located alongside the Rhone River, is best known for the Palace of the Popes, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest gothic palace in Europe. Stroll through the old town's maze of narrow streets, or hop aboard a tourist train that will offer tired kiddos a compelling break.
For more: avignon-tourisme.com; uniworld.com
Flying Horse Carousel
Westerly, Rhode Island
Built in 1876 and designated a National Historic Landmark, this carousel is believed to be the oldest flying horse carousel in the country. Once part of a traveling carnival, the charming carousel in the Watch Hill resort area features hand-carved horses suspended from chains. Thus, as the speed increases they seem to "fly." Each horse has a leather saddle and a tail and mane crafted from real horse hair. Revelers can reach for the brass ring near the end of the ride. If you are lucky enough to grab it, you'll win a token for a free ride.
For more: merrygoroundbeach.com
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