Founded in 1990, the museum is a wonderful place to spend a few hours discovering the art and history of the carousel and its carved and colorful animals who not that long ago were seats to a spinning world. Located in a repurposed hosiery factory, you will find over 100 antique carved creations along with plenty of other carousel art and memorabilia. The museum has also added a working carousel. Sorry, only kids can ride.

Additionally, the goal of the museum is not only displaying the past, but includes a full functioning workshop providing carvers, painters and restorers the opportunity to work to restore antique pieces, create new carousel pieces and demonstrate the art of the carousel. So go for the brass ring and witness the wooden artwork representing vanishing Americana being saved and preserved.

While at the New England Carousel Museum, you will also be treated to two other exhibitions upstairs: The Museum of Fire History and a small Museum of Greek Culture (posted separately).