Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum
Step back in time at the only carousel museum in the world housed in its original factory, featuring antique rides and craft demonstrations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the only carousel museum in the world housed in its original factory, featuring antique rides and craft demonstrations.
"This magical place fulfilled one of my childhood dreams of going to an old-fashioned amusement park from the late 1800s."
🎯 Ride the Carousels!
Don't miss the chance to ride the antique carousels; it's a highlight for many visitors!
🗣️ Chat with Staff
The employees and volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about carousel history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ride the Antique Carousels
Main exhibit floor
Experience the magic of riding a piece of history on one of the two operational antique carousels.
Witness Hand-Carved Animals
Carving Floor
Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of hand-carved and painted carousel animals, some still being created today.
Wurlitzer Music Roll Demonstration
Wurlitzer Music Department
See and hear the historic Wurlitzer equipment that produced music rolls for carousels and other entertainment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Carousel Experience
Embrace the Interactive Nature
The museum also features demonstrations of carousel animal carving and the operation of vintage Wurlitzer music roll equipment, offering a unique glimpse into the craft. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ride the Carousels!
Don't miss the chance to ride the antique carousels; it's a highlight for many visitors!
🗣️ Chat with Staff
The employees and volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about carousel history.
🕰️ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 30 minutes to an hour to explore and enjoy the rides.
📸 Photo opportunities abound
Capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of the carousel animals and factory.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ride the Carousels!
Don't miss the chance to ride the antique carousels; it's a highlight for many visitors!
🗣️ Chat with Staff
The employees and volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about carousel history.
🕰️ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 30 minutes to an hour to explore and enjoy the rides.
📸 Photo opportunities abound
Capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of the carousel animals and factory.
🚗 Parking is available
Street parking is generally available near the museum.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum for its unique historical significance, interactive carousel rides, and the passion of its staff. Many highlight the educational value of seeing the manufacturing process and the charm of the antique machinery. While some note the museum is relatively small and can be explored quickly, most find it a worthwhile and magical experience, especially for families.
"Very nice museum with a lot of information and history. Admission is only $9 per person. They had a big carousel and a smaller carousel for kids. They also have some other rides for kids. The employees are super friendly and knowledgeable. It took us approximately 30 minutes to go through everything and ride the big carousel."
Will Gausman
"Ian, the curator was great we had a large group and he projected his voice so all could hear him. Knows his carrousel history and makes the presentation very interesting with human touches as he went along. They are saving a part of history. The ride at the end was a blast, kids will love it well worth a visit if you are in the area."
Jamie Hyde
"I saw this place on YouTube and I knew I had to check it out. I had a great time looking around learning about Carousel history, how they’re made and even got to ride an Antique carousel. This place is absolutely fascinating and I learned a lot about the Herschell carousel company and all the rides and games made by them, including a delightfully twisted take on the striking machine where instead of launching a weight to hit a bell you would hit a mechanical cow on the head to make it fall to its knees. Also the guy running the carousel was very knowledgeable and shared a lot about specific carousel companies and the Brass ring thing. Also the carousel was a blast to ride.
Also if you have kid’s, they will love it. Not only do they have 2 working carousels, including one specifically designed for children, but they also have a bunch of old Kiddieland rides out front that they can ride. It’s 100% worth the journey."
willku9000
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in North Tonawanda, NY, a short drive from Buffalo and Niagara Falls. Many visitors arrive by car, with street parking available. +1 It's also accessible via public transport routes serving the Buffalo-Niagara region.
Yes, the museum is conveniently located in North Tonawanda, NY, which is very close to Niagara Falls, making it an easy addition to a Niagara Falls itinerary. +1
For exploring North Tonawanda and the surrounding areas, driving is the most common method. Ride-sharing services are also available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around $9 per person, offering great value for the experience. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current pricing and any special event fees.
While advance booking isn't usually required for general admission, it's recommended during peak seasons or for special events to secure your spot.
The museum's hours can vary seasonally, often opening for the season around Memorial Day weekend. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date operating schedule.
Yes, your admission typically includes access to ride the operational antique carousels, making it a truly immersive experience.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
You can ride antique carousels, see carousel animals being carved, learn about the history of the Herschell Company, and view vintage Wurlitzer music roll equipment.
Absolutely! Riding the antique carousels is a highlight of the visit and is included with admission.
Yes, the museum features a smaller carousel for kids and other vintage Kiddieland rides out front, making it a great family destination.
Visitors can often witness live demonstrations of wood carving for carousel animals and the operation of Wurlitzer music roll equipment.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the museum, many historic buildings are working to improve accessibility. The presence of a service dog in a review suggests some level of accommodation.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, allowing you to capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of the carousels and factory.
The carousel animals themselves, the vintage Wurlitzer equipment, and the historic factory architecture offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with museum staff upon arrival to ensure compliance with their guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate the educational aspect of the museum, learning about the history of carousel manufacturing.
💖 Couples and History Enthusiasts
Exploring the intricate details of the hand-carved animals and learning about the manufacturing process can spark interesting conversations and shared discoveries. History enthusiasts will be fascinated by the preservation of the original factory building and its machinery.
The opportunity to see still-operational Wurlitzer equipment and understand the craft of carousel making offers a deep dive into a specific niche of industrial and artistic history. The knowledgeable staff further enhance the experience with their passion and insights. 📸 Photographers and Artists
The historic factory setting itself, with its vintage machinery and architectural elements, offers a compelling atmosphere. Urban sketchers and artists will find inspiration in the intricate carvings and the nostalgic feel of the place.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Allan Herschell Company
The company was renowned for producing portable carousels and other amusement rides, catering to traveling carnivals and amusement parks across the nation. Their legacy is preserved here, offering a tangible connection to a significant era of American entertainment history. Visitors can explore the original production equipment, including the Wurlitzer Music Department, where music rolls were created for self-playing organs.
The museum also showcases the craftsmanship involved in creating carousel animals, with demonstrations of hand-carving and painting techniques that were used decades ago and are still practiced by some artisans today. The museum's commitment to preserving this history is evident in its ongoing efforts, including the development of new facilities like a Music Hall.
It's a place where the past is not just remembered but actively brought to life, offering an educational and entertaining experience for all ages. Experiencing the Carousels and Kiddieland
One is a larger, classic carousel that evokes the grandeur of early amusement parks, while a smaller one is specifically designed for younger children. Beyond the main carousels, the museum also features vintage Kiddieland rides out front, which are operational during the warmer months.
Social
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