The New England Carousel Museum in Bristol, Connecticut is a hidden gem that offers a magical glimpse into the colorful world of carousel art and history. Housed in a restored 33,000 square foot former hosiery factory, this unique museum was founded in 1990 and has grown from owning just one carousel horse to showcasing over 100 antique wooden carousel animals from across the United States. You’ll be amazed by the museum’s extensive collection, interactive exhibits, working carousel ride, and specialized areas including a carving workshop and restoration area.
When you visit this delightful attraction, you’ll discover not just carousel treasures but also other interesting collections housed within the same building. The museum complex includes a Museum of Fire History and a Museum of Greek Culture, making it a surprising destination with something for everyone. What started as a small operation renting just 10,000 square feet has blossomed into a beloved cultural institution that continues to preserve and celebrate the artistry and joy of carousel craftsmanship for visitors of all ages.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Connecticut! Look for deals here:
Connecticut Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
The Carousel Museum
The Carousel Museum in Bristol, Connecticut is a unique treasure that will transport you back to the golden age of carousels. This charming museum houses an impressive collection of carousel animals and memorabilia from across the United States.
When you visit, you’ll get to see carousel pieces from places like Maine, New York, Kansas, and California. The museum’s collection continues to grow each year through donations, giving you a chance to witness these beautiful pieces of American folk art up close.
Beyond carousel items, the museum offers more to explore. You’ll find vintage firefighting gear and Greek art displays that add variety to your visit. Best of all, there’s an indoor working carousel where you can experience the magic firsthand!
The museum serves as both a preservation center and an educational space. It’s perfect for families, history buffs, or anyone who appreciates the artistry and nostalgia of these magnificent merry-go-rounds.
Rating: 4.7 (491 reviews)
Location: 95 Riverside Ave, Bristol, CT 06010
Contact: (860) 585-5411
Website: Visit Website
History of the New England Carousel Museum
The New England Carousel Museum has grown from humble beginnings into one of the region’s most beloved cultural treasures, preserving America’s rich carousel heritage while expanding its collections and educational programs.
Founding and Early Years
The New England Carousel Museum opened its doors in 1990 as a nonprofit educational organization in Bristol, Connecticut. When it first began, the museum occupied just 10,000 square feet on the first floor of a restored hosiery factory building at 95 Riverside Avenue.
Would you believe the museum started with only one carousel horse in its collection? The founders had a clear mission: to present the art and history of carousels and preserve this vanishing piece of Americana for future generations.
The museum quickly became known as “the best hidden secret in New England” as it began building its collection and educational programs. Early visitors were drawn to the unique focus on carousel art and craftsmanship that couldn’t be found elsewhere in the region.
Evolution of Exhibits
Over the years, the New England Carousel Museum has expanded dramatically, now housing one of the largest permanent collections of carousel animals in the United States. The museum doesn’t just display horses – you’ll find all sorts of carousel creatures throughout the exhibits!
The museum has grown to include comprehensive displays explaining carousel history and demonstrating how these magnificent animals were constructed. You can learn about the craftsmanship behind these pieces of moving art and see the work of modern carousel creators continuing this tradition.
A major addition came with the installation of a working carousel inside the museum, giving visitors a chance to experience the magic firsthand. The museum has also expanded to include the Museum of Fire History under the same roof, providing even more reasons to visit.
Current Exhibitions
The New England Carousel Museum offers fascinating rotating exhibitions that showcase the artistry and history of carousels. Their collection includes beautifully restored carousel animals from across the United States.
Featured Carousels
The museum currently features an impressive display of carousel animals that have been donated from all across America. You’ll see exquisite pieces from Maine, New York, Kansas, Las Vegas, New Jersey, California, and more. Each piece tells a story of American craftsmanship and artistry.
The permanent collection continues to grow each year, with new additions regularly being incorporated into the displays. When you visit, you can enjoy a ride on the museum’s working carousel—a magical experience that brings the exhibits to life.
The carousel animals represent some of the finest examples of antique carousel art in existence. Their detailed craftsmanship and vibrant colors showcase why these pieces are considered treasures of American folk art.
Special Collections
Beyond carousel animals, you can explore “Dolls: No Ordinary Playthings” running through December 31, 2025. This exhibit features an extensive collection of dolls owned by a former member of the performing group Up With People.
The dolls are arranged by theme, time period, and country of origin. You’ll be amazed by dolls from Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, India, Russia, and many other countries.
In addition to the main carousel exhibits, your admission includes access to the Museum of Fire History, the Museum of Greek Culture, and the Glo Sessions Art Gallery. The museum’s changing fine art gallery always offers something new to discover on repeat visits.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Connecticut! Look for deals here:
Connecticut Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Fairfield County
Hartford County
Litchfield County
Middlesex County
New Haven County
New London County
Tolland County
