Meet the Animals of the Adirondack Carousel
Every Animal Has a Name – and a Story to Tell
Meet the Wildlife
That Calls Our Carousel Home
Every figure on the Adirondack Carousel is a hand-carved tribute to the wildlife of the Adirondack Park, shaped and painted by skilled artists and brought to life by the community that built it. Each animal carries two stories: the tale of the real creature that roams our woods and waters, and the tale of the carving itself – who carved it, who sponsored it, and the name local schoolchildren gave it. Below, meet all twenty figures that ride (and one that doesn‘t go up and down at all). Look closely and you may spot the ladybug tucked onto every carving – New York State ‘s official insect and the object of many a happy hunt.
Think you know your Adirondack animals? After you’ve met the whole crew, take our Carousel Animal Quiz and find out how much you remember. Perfect for curious kids and the grown-ups who ride along!
Want to take a story home? Each animal below links to a printable information sheet you can download and read at your leisure.
Bug Eye the Black Fly
Carvers: Walt Reuss & Rich Kraft (Mansfield, OH & Saranac Lake, NY) | Sponsors: Marge & Ted Glowa
If you spend enough time in the Adirondack woods and waters, you will find all of the animals that ride the carousel – except for Bug Eye. He’ll find you! Black flies can arrive earlier and linger later, but it’s generally between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day that Bug Eye comes looking for you. Everyone in the Adirondacks has a “sure-fire” defense – ointments, salves, hats, and sprays of every kind – but you will never regret keeping an old-fashioned head net in your pack.
The black fly is also known as a buffalo gnat, a turkey gnat, and, for some reason, a white socks. These aquatic insects prefer clean, fast-running water; their larvae are eaten by fish and other aquatic animals, while the adults are prey for birds. Black flies are most active a few hours after sunrise and a few hours before sunset. Their bites can cause swelling, bleeding, pain, and itching – though the male flies are not attracted to humans and cannot bite at all.
Explore The Adirondack Carousel
The Adirondack Carousel in Saranac Lake is a community-built, year-round attraction featuring hand-carved figures inspired by Adirondack wildlife and culture. Created by volunteers and artists, it celebrates creativity, inclusivity, and the enduring spirit of the Adirondacks.
A Whimsical Ride in the Heart of the Adirondacks
The Adirondack Carousel in Saranac Lake brings classic charm to life with hand-carved animals inspired by local wildlife. It’s a joyful stop for families and visitors of all ages exploring the village.
Where Adirondack Wildlife Takes a Spin
Instead of traditional horses, the carousel features bears, loons, deer, and other regional favorites. Each ride celebrates the natural beauty and character of the Adirondack Mountains.
A Community Treasure in Downtown Saranac Lake
Built through local craftsmanship and volunteer support, the Adirondack Carousel reflects the town’s innovative and creative spirit. It stands as a symbol of pride and collaboration in the community.
Hand-Carved Art You Can Ride
Every carousel animal is uniquely carved and painted, making each one a small work of art. The attention to detail turns a simple ride into a memorable experience.
More Than a Carousel, It’s an Adirondack Story
The carousel blends storytelling, craftsmanship, and regional identity into one delightful attraction. Riding it feels like stepping into a moving tribute to Adirondack life.
A Year-Round Attraction with Small-Town Charm
Open in every season, the Adirondack Carousel offers a cozy and nostalgic activity no matter the weather. Rain or shine, please come visit with us!