Salem’s Riverfront Carousel and Artisan Workshops

There’s a timeless magic to carousels, and Salem’s Riverfront Carousel captures that glamour. Located on the banks of the Willamette River in Salem, the carousel is a community-made work of art that captures the area’s history, and offers visitors many moments of fun.

Each carousel horse was hand-carved by local woodworkers and painted by local artisans. Many of the mounts also have a regional theme, or are based off of real horses. Folks who sponsored the building of a horse during the carousel’s construction had a say in the creative process, so a few horses are memorials to loved ones, historical figures, or concepts important to the donors. As new critters and horses are added, donors are invited to step up and contribute financially and creatively to the carousel's evolving set of rides.

In addition to the carousel which was completed in 2001, the building in which it’s housed also offers artisan workshops. Visitors can stop in to admire craftspeople engaged in designing, carving or painting new ride additions. There are also an assortment of regular, non-carousel related workshops, including cane making, miniature-making, and special projects. Around the holidays, the workshops reflect seasonal themes, such as ornament-carving and more.

Salem’s Riverfront Carousel is open every day of the week. Hours are:

Monday - Thursday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday - Saturday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m. – 5. p.m.

A ride costs $1.50. Discount and packages are available and certain holidays have special rates. The carousel is wheelchair accessible.

Click the Learn More button to visit the official website.