The Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the captivating world of carousels. With its historic 40-foot carousel and an array of interactive exhibits, the museum invites visitors to uncover the craftsmanship and artistry that have defined this timeless amusement. Whether you’re a carousel enthusiast or simply looking for a fun family outing, this admission ticket promises an engaging and educational experience. But what secrets does the museum hold, just waiting to be discovered?
Good To Know
- Admission to the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum includes two ride tokens, with additional tokens available for $1 per token.
- The museum is open Monday-Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
- Visitors can explore the museum’s historic 40-foot carousel with 36 hand-carved horses, as well as the 1940s aluminum Kiddie Carousel.
- The museum features engaging exhibits that immerse guests in the rich history and craftsmanship of the carousel factory.
- Admission tickets offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the booking, and local taxes are included.
Overview and Admission Details
The Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum, located near Niagara Falls, NY, offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience one of the last wooden carousel complexes in the United States.
Admission includes two ride tokens, with additional tokens available for $1. The museum is open Monday-Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Local taxes are included, and the museum features a large carving shop, woodworking shop, paint shop, and assembly roundhouse within a 7-structure complex.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Niagara Falls.
Museum Features and Exhibits
A historic 40-foot carousel with 36 hand-carved horses and over 580 lights stands as the centerpiece of the museum’s impressive exhibits.
Visitors can also explore:
- A 1940s aluminum Kiddie Carousel in the Children’s Gallery
- The Kiddieland Testing Park Exhibit, featuring refurbished kiddie rides from the postwar era
- The Wurlitzer Music Roll Department and Lockman Collection, showcasing the evolution of carousel animals
These unique exhibits immerse guests in the rich history and craftsmanship of the Herschell Carrousel Factory.
Whether admiring the intricate woodwork or riding the antique carousels, the museum offers a nostalgic journey back in time.
Family-Friendly Activities
Ideal for family-friendly fun, the museum includes a dedicated Children’s Gallery and refurbished kiddie rides for young visitors to enjoy.
The Kiddieland Testing Park Exhibit showcases four classic rides from the postwar era, allowing kids to experience the nostalgia of vintage amusement.
The museum’s picnic pavilion and admissions house offer convenient amenities for families.
With its engaging activities and child-friendly features, the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum provides an enjoyable and educational experience for all ages.
Whether you’re looking to introduce your little ones to carousel history or simply create cherished memories, this museum promises a delightful outing for the whole family.
Accessibility and Participation
For visitors, the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum is wheelchair accessible, allowing all to experience its delights. Most travelers can participate in the museum’s offerings, though children must be accompanied by an adult.
The carousel has a weight restriction of 200 pounds, and the kiddie rides have varying height restrictions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
- The museum’s exhibits and attractions are designed to be accessible and inclusive, catering to visitors of all abilities.
Guests with mobility challenges can explore the museum’s expansive grounds and enjoy the captivating history and whimsical displays.
The museum’s staff is committed to ensuring that every visitor has a memorable and accessible experience.
Visitor Experience and Reviews
Visitors thoroughly enjoy their time at the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum, rating it 4.7 out of 5 based on 11 reviews.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable staff and engaging tours, which provide a nostalgic trip back to childhood. The museum’s unique exhibits, like the Wurlitzer Music Roll Department and Lockman Collection, captivate guests.
Visitors also highlight the gift shop’s carousel-inspired collectibles as a highlight of their experience.
With 100% of travelers recommending the museum, the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum offers a truly delightful and memorable visit for families and enthusiasts alike.
Exploring Carousel History
The Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum offers a captivating exploration of carousel history, housed within a historic 7-structure complex.
Visitors can explore the evolution of carousel animals, as showcased in the Lockman Collection. The museum’s Wurlitzer Music Roll Department provides a fascinating glimpse into the music that once breathed life into these beloved amusement park rides.
Plus, the museum boasts:
- A historic 40-foot carousel with 36 hand-carved horses and over 580 lights
- A 1940s aluminum Kiddie Carousel in the Children’s Gallery
- The Kiddieland Testing Park Exhibit, featuring refurbished kiddie rides from the postwar era
These immersive exhibits capture the timeless charm and craftsmanship that defined the golden age of carousels.
Discovering Unique Exhibits
Beyond the iconic carousel, the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum boasts a wealth of unique exhibits that captivate visitors.
The Wurlitzer Music Roll Department showcases the evolution of music rolls, while the Lockman Collection offers a glimpse into the transformation of carousel animals over time.
Visitors can explore the museum’s carving shop, woodworking shop, paint shop, and assembly roundhouse, gaining insight into the intricate craftsmanship behind these enchanting creations.
The Kiddieland Testing Park Exhibit features refurbished kiddie rides from the postwar era, adding an extra layer of nostalgia to the experience.
With these engaging displays, the museum invites guests to explore the rich history and artistry of carousels.
Carousel-Inspired Gifts and Collectibles
The museum’s gift shop offers a delightful array of carousel-inspired collectibles and souvenirs that allow visitors to take home a piece of the enchanting experience.
From intricately crafted carousel animal figurines to whimsical music boxes, the selection caters to every taste.
Highlights include:
- Handpainted wooden carousel horse ornaments, perfect for adding a touch of nostalgia to any holiday décor.
- A variety of vintage-inspired carousel-themed t-shirts and mugs, ideal for sharing the museum’s charm with friends and family.
- Unique jewelry pieces featuring carousel-inspired designs, providing a wearable memento of the visit.
These carousel-themed items make wonderful gifts and keepsakes, ensuring the magic of the museum lives on long after the visit.
Things To Known
Can I Ride the Carousel as Many Times as I Want?
Yes, visitors can ride the historic carousel as many times as they’d like. The admission ticket includes two ride tokens, and additional tokens can be purchased for $1 each to enjoy the carousel further.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Food for the Picnic Pavilion?
No, you don’t need to bring your own food for the picnic pavilion. The museum provides a convenient space for visitors to enjoy their own packed lunches or snacks during their visit.
Is Photography Allowed Inside the Museum?
Photography is allowed inside the museum, so visitors can capture the historic carousel, woodworking exhibits, and other displays. However, flash photography may be restricted to preserve the delicate artifacts.
Can I Bring My Pet to the Museum?
Pets are generally not allowed inside the museum. However, service animals are permitted to accompany visitors. Guests should contact the museum in advance to make any necessary arrangements for their service animal.
Is There a Dress Code for the Museum?
There’s no strict dress code at the museum, so visitors can wear whatever’s comfortable. Casual attire is perfectly fine – the focus is on enjoying the historic carousels and exhibits, not formal wear.
Sum Up
The Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum offers a captivating journey through carousel history. Visitors can explore the museum’s diverse exhibits, enjoy the historic 40-foot carousel, and enjoy the artistry of these enchanting machines. With family-friendly activities, accessible amenities, and positive reviews, it’s an ideal destination for a delightful day filled with carousel-inspired wonder and discovery.
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