Carousels are so much more than just a fun ride – they are a nostalgic spin through history whether you are by the sea or in an amusement park.
In Massachusetts, many of these whimsical rides are actually rare, hand-carved antiques—works of art in motion. According to the National Carousel Association, there are seven antique wooden and metal carousels still delighting riders. Here’s where you can hop on a piece of history.
Flying Horses Carousel (1876) – Oak Bluffs
Step aboard the oldest operating platform carousel in the United States. The Flying Horses Carousel, currently maintained by the Vineyard Preservation Trust, was built in 1876 by the Charles W. Dare Company and brought to Oak Bluffs in 1884. This beloved summer attraction features hand-painted horses and a famous ring game—snag the brass ring, and your next ride is free. It’s a must-visit when exploring Martha’s Vineyard, especially on a cloudy beach day.
Heritage Museums & Gardens Carousel (1908) – Sandwich
Nestled among beautifully curated gardens and classic car collections, the American Art & Carousel Gallery at Heritage Museums & Gardens houses a stunningly restored 1908 Looff carousel. Hand-carved and rich in detail, this antique is the centerpiece of an experience that blends artistry, nature, and nostalgia on Cape Cod.
Six Flags New England Carousel (1909) – Agawam
Tucked among the thrill rides of Six Flags New England is a true gem: a 1909 Illions carousel, carved by one of the most celebrated carousel artists of all time. Originally part of Riverside Park, this century-old ride offers a charming contrast to the park’s modern coasters—and a sweet spot for younger visitors or anyone needing a gentler spin.
Paragon Carousel (1928) – Hull
The last remaining attraction from the beloved Paragon Park at Nantasket Beach, this 1928 Philadelphia Toboggan Company carousel was saved from auction and restored by the local community. Today, the Paragon Carousel is still spinning by the sea in Hull, bringing joy to a new generation while preserving the magic of its seaside amusement park roots.
Fall River Carousel (1920) – Fall River Heritage State Park
One of the attractions of Fall River Heritage State Park is the historic 1920 Philadelphia Toboggan Company Carousel. The Fall River Carousel was once located at Lincoln Park in Dartmouth and now spins steps from Battleship Cove and the Taunton River. Be sure to enjoy the new coffee and ice cream shop and bookstore for a complete excursion.
Holyoke Merry-Go-Round (1929) – Holyoke Heritage State Park
Operating year-round with seasonal hours, the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round is a 1929 gem that once called Mountain Park home. Today, it enchants visitors at Heritage State Park with its joyful music and beautifully restored horses—an ideal family outing any time of year, especially with the Children’s Museum of Holyoke and Volleyball Hall of Fame just steps away.
Salisbury Beach Carousel (1909) – Salisbury
Just steps from the ocean the Salisbury Beach Carousel is a hand-carved 1909 Looff-Mangels menagerie, one of the few remaining of its kind in New England. Housed now in a stunning octagonal pavilion built to evoke the original Broadway Flying Horses, it spins year-round, offering families both a living link to seaside nostalgia and a joyful new destination north of Boston.
When you are travelling around Massachusetts keep your eye out for these unique objects of living history, lovingly preserved and ready for your next whirl.
The blog was updated in Summer 2025.
