City Museum is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest family attraction, Antique Children’s Carousel, debuting March 13, 2026. City Museum is already home to beloved attractions including the Rooftop Ferris Wheel and the City Express Train. The addition of the Antique Children’s Carousel marks the museum’s third powered ride and its most perfectly scaled adventure for younger explorers.
This beautifully restored, 20-foot diameter carousel was originally manufactured in the 1920s by the renowned Allan Herschell Company of North Tonawanda, New York, the most prolific carousel maker in American history. Known for producing more than 3,000 hand-carved wooden carousels, the company specialized in portable machines that traveled with carnivals across the country, bringing joy to generations of families.
“This carousel feels like it was always meant to be here,” said Eric Gilbert, City Museum General Manager. “City Museum is built on imagination, artistry, and unexpected discovery and this ride embodies all of that. From the hand-carved wooden horses and chariots to the historic craftsmanship, it fits seamlessly into our creative, one-of-a-kind aesthetic. It’s playful, artistic, a little nostalgic, and completely magical – just like City Museum.”
In 1988, the carousel was restored as a historical art preservation project by sculptor Carlos Sardina and his wife Judy. The Sardinas toured their carousels nationwide from the late 1980s through the early 2010s, sharing the joy of antique rides with communities across the country.
Now, this historic treasure has found a permanent home at City Museum.
Join us during the first two weekends of the Antique Children’s Carousel grand re-re-opening with 1920s-era entertainment reminiscent of the golden age of amusement parks and mechanical marvels.
Friday, March 13 – Sunday, March 15 between 12-4pm:
- Stilt walker
- Balloon twister
- Ragtime Jazz Duo in Beatnik Bob’s
Friday, March 20 – Sunday, March 22 between 12-4pm:
- Stilt walker
- Balloon twister
- Gaslight Square Duo (Friday, 3/20 and Sunday, 3/22)
- Ragtime Jazz Duo (Saturday, 3/21)
The Carousel is included with general admission or a member pass to City Museum. Member Passes can be purchased at citymuseum.org/tickets