National Carousel Day is celebrated throughout the United States on July 25th. As people search for a merry-go-round to celebrate the day, Massachusetts has many diverse and distinct offerings. From antique carousels to modern takes on the old favorite, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

#1. Oldest Working Platform Carousel in America | Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard

The Flying Horse Carousel was built in New York City before being moved to it’s current location on Martha’s Vineyard in 1884. The carousel was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1987. Featuring music from 1923 and the chance to grab the lucky brass ring which gets you a free ride!

#2. One of “America’s Best Carousels” | Boston Common

The Boston Common Carousel is in it’s fourth year of operation at its location adjacent to the Frog Pond. An oak floor, beveled glass mirrors, and a standard pie top with a lighted crown all give the Carousel a classic style. Named one of America’s Best Carousels by Travel & Leisure, the carousel was built in 1947 and is open to visitors from mid-April to the end of October.

#3. One of only a few hand-carved carousels in America | Falmouth

The Carousel of Light was created by Falmouth artist Lance Shinkle. Lance began the task of hand-carving each horse and chariot in 1988. Years later, after Lance had created 32 horses, two wheelchair-accessible chariots, and had painted 12 colorful scenery panels to decorate the carousel, the first ride happened at the Barnstable County Fair. In 2014, the Carousel received a home at the Mullen Hall School where it sits today.

#4. An Original Charles Looff Carousel | Sandwich

Charles Looff was the earliest and most successful of the Coney Island carousel builders. Between 1876 and 1916 he built around 40 carousels at his factory in Rhode Island. Today, only 10 of these carousels are still in operation including the 1908 hand-carved carousel at Heritage Museums and Gardens. With it’s sparkling mirrors, glittering jewels and decorated animals riders can enjoy unlimited rides with admission to Heritage. 

#5. Last Existing Attraction from Paragon Park | Hull 

The Paragon Carousel is an antique wooden carousel built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. This carousel was an attraction at Paragon Park at Nantasket Beach before the park closed in 1985. It was saved from auction in 1996 and Hull has been its home ever since. It is the last existing attraction from Paragon Park and one of fewer than 100 “Grand” carousels remaining in the U.S. today.

When on a carousel, going round and round is fun. In real estate, going in circles can be frustrating and time consuming. If you are looking to buy or sell, contact a Robert Paul agent today who can help you accomplish your goals while you focus on enjoying life and taking time to stop and ride a carousel.