Flying Horses Carousel
About
The Flying Horses Carousel is the nation’s oldest platform carousel. Since 1884, the Flying Horses Carousel has delighted visitors in the town of Oak Bluffs.
Constructed by Charles Dare of New York Carousel Manufacturing in 1876, it is one of only two Dare carousels that still exist. Originally operated as an attraction on Coney Island, it was moved to Oak Bluffs in 1884 and includes stationary hand-carved wooden horses with manes and tails of real horsehair and inset glass eyes. Each horse is brightly painted and fixed to the rotating platform by a metal post.
In the 1870s, when the Flying Horses Carousel was designed, summer recreation in America was expanding. At its peak, Coney Island, the most famous of the country’s amusement parks, had 25 carousels in operation – including the Flying Horses Carousel.
Vineyard Preservation Trust acquired the carousel in 1986 to prevent it from being dismantled and sold piecemeal to collectors of antique carved horses. The Trust undertook an extensive restoration of the Flying Horses, returning the carousel to its original appearance, complete with the historic panel paintings that were done by a Dare factory artist.
Connect with this landmark
HOURS:
Monday-Friday: 10am-2pm
Join us for weekday tours led by longtime carousel employee and former manager Lee Benjamin! Learn about, walk through, and take photos of the historic horses.
The carousel will not be operating during these hours; no rides available.
Saturday & Sunday: 11:00am-4:30pm
$4: individual ticket
$35: 10-pass
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Host a Special Event
Host your next little and big kids’ party at the Flying Horses Carousel! Click to learn more.
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Be a Part of History: Name the Last Chariot on the Flying Horses Carousel!
With 20 Horses, 4 Chariots, and only ONE left to name, the Vineyard Preservation Trust presents a rare and exciting fundraising opportunity to benefit the cherished Flying Horses Carousel in Oak Bluffs.
$100 per entry.
Events At The Flying Horses Carousel
Donation Request Form
Please submit this Donation Request Form to inquire a donation of items or services.
Oak Bluffs, MA