The New England Carousel Museum

Step into a world where hand-carved animals prance in mid-gallop, music from vintage Wurlitzer organs fills the air, and craftsmanship from a bygone era stands proudly preserved. Tucked within a transformed 33,000-square-foot factory in Bristol, Connecticut, the New England Carousel Museum delivers a spirited journey through the artistry, culture, and mechanics behind one of the most beloved amusements of all time. This museum isn’t a quiet hall of artifacts—it’s an interactive experience that pulses with nostalgia, beauty, and a joyful sense of movement.

A Spiraling History of Carousel Art

Founded with a mission to preserve and educate, the New England Carousel Museum houses over 100 antique carousel animals, each bursting with detail and character. Visitors are greeted by a vibrant menagerie of horses, rabbits, giraffes, cats, lions, and even insects, showcasing the breadth of imagination once poured into this classic form of entertainment. The fine craftsmanship of these pieces, many dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reflects a golden age when carousel carving was a respected American art form.

The museum does more than display these figures; it tells their stories. Placards and guided tours unveil the cultural roots and technical evolution of carousel carving, spotlighting artists and styles from across the country. One standout is a horse from the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, crafted circa 1909, whose elaborate bridle and expression capture the peak of carousel design sophistication.

A Multi-Museum Experience Under One Roof

The Carousel Museum shares its space with several companion museums that broaden the visitor experience:

• Museum of Fire History: Featuring vintage firefighting equipment and artifacts, this exhibit honors the heritage and heroism of fire services.
• Museum of Greek Culture: A quieter gallery offering insight into Hellenic traditions and historical narratives.
• Glo Sessions Art Gallery and Rotating Fine Art Gallery: Showcasing local and regional artists, these galleries add a fresh creative pulse to the historic setting.

Each space is carefully curated to engage visitors with both historical depth and artistic flair.

More Than a Look—A Ride

Few museums offer an experience as kinetic as this one. Admission includes a ride on a working indoor carousel, where children and adults alike can mount a painted horse and whirl to the sound of self-playing music machines. For many, it’s a return to the innocence of youth. For others, it’s a first encounter with the rhythm and excitement of a classic ride brought to life through meticulous restoration.

The museum also maintains a functioning carving workshop and restoration studio. Visitors can catch a glimpse of artisans at work, sanding, painting, and repairing old figures with the same care and attention given by the original carvers. This behind-the-scenes view adds a layer of respect for the preservation process.

Community Connection and Creative Vision

Under the leadership of Executive Director Morgan Fippinger, the museum has embraced a bold strategic vision for 2022 through 2027. With support from the Barnes Foundation and guidance from Leadership Greater Hartford, the museum has laid out a Capital Improvement Plan focused on sustainability, inclusivity, and deeper community engagement. One of the major goals includes introducing a new carousel to downtown Bristol.

Fippinger, whose passion for carousel preservation is unmistakable, actively promotes the museum as a vibrant cultural partner. Her enthusiasm is mirrored by the dedicated staff and volunteers who guide tours, host events, and engage with guests of all ages.

A Venue Like No Other

The museum’s second floor features a breathtaking ballroom available for weddings, quinceañeras, meetings, and other celebrations. With the capacity to host up to 150 guests at round tables with space for a dance floor, the space blends whimsy with elegance. The historic backdrop of carousel creatures and polished wood flooring offers a setting that lingers in memory long after the last song plays.

Practical Information for Visitors

Address: 95 Riverside Ave., Bristol, CT 06010
Phone: 860-585-5411
Website: [Official Carousel Museum Website]
Hours:

• Wednesday through Saturday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Sunday: 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
• Closed Monday and Tuesday

Admission Pricing:

• Adults: $6.00
• Seniors: $5.50
• Children (4–14): $3.50
• Ages 3 and under: $2.00
  Each ticket includes one ride on the carousel.

Supporting the Carousel Legacy

The museum is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization and invites public support through memberships, donations, and an adopt-a-horse program. A dedicated transportation fund ensures that new additions to the collection—donated from across the United States—can be safely brought to their new home in Bristol. Contributions are vital for maintaining the magic and integrity of this growing archive.

A Lasting Impression

The New England Carousel Museum doesn’t rely on flashy gimmicks or commercial attractions. It draws people in with color, craftsmanship, and a genuine reverence for one of the most joyful inventions in entertainment history. Whether you’re a family with young children, a history buff, or someone who appreciates the timeless blend of engineering and art, this destination invites you to pause and celebrate a rich, spinning legacy of joy.

A visit here is an opportunity to see history in motion, surrounded by the sound of carousel music and the gleam of hand-painted wood. It is one of Connecticut’s most engaging cultural offerings, where every corner holds a new character and every ride is a revival of wonder.