Frequently Asked Questions
Questions, and their answers, about the Adirondack Carousel
Everything You Need to Know
Before You Ride
Located in the heart of Saranac Lake, the Adirondack Carousel is a community-built attraction that celebrates Adirondack wildlife, art, and imagination. Hand-carved animals, vibrant painted panels, and a warm, welcoming pavilion make it a favorite destination for families, visitors, and locals alike.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or you’re a returning rider, this page is designed to answer the most common questions about the Carousel. From ride details and accessibility to events and group visits, we hope this information helps you make the most of your time with us.
If you have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out as we’re always happy to help!
Frequently asked Questions,
and their Answers
Where is the Adirondack Carousel located?
The Adirondack Carousel is located in William Morris Park, at the intersection of Bloomingdale Avenue and Broadway in downtown Saranac Lake, New York.
What animals can you ride on the Carousel?
The Carousel features hand-carved figures inspired by Adirondack wildlife, including a bear, loon, deer, otter, raccoon, black fly, and many more. Each figure is unique and created by volunteer carvers. You can learn more about the animals, and how they were made, by visiting our Carvings page.
Is the carousel open year-round?
Yes. Hours vary from season to season and are listed on this website.
How long is a Carousel ride?
Each ride lasts approximately three to four minutes – just enough time to enjoy the music, movement, and artwork.
Is the Carousel appropriate for young children?
Absolutely. The Carousel is designed for riders of all ages, and children must be accompanied by an adult as needed for safety.
How tall does my child have to be to ride the Carousel?
We don’t have a set height limit, small children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian when riding the Carousel, and will need to hold on to them tightly at all times while the Carousel is in motion.
Is the Adirondack Carousel accessible to people with disabilities?
Yes. The Carousel is accessible to people with disabilities and includes a wheelchair-accessible Chris-Craft boat chariot so everyone can enjoy the ride.
Are there restrooms on site?
Yes. Restrooms are available within the Carousel pavilion during open hours. However, the restrooms are not ADA compliant.
Can I host a birthday party or private event at the Carousel?
Yes. The Adirondack Carousel offers space for birthday parties and private events. Reservations are required, and details can be found on our Rent Us page or by contacting us directly by phone at (518) 891-9521.
Do you offer group rates or school visits?
Group visits, including school and community groups, are welcome. Advance scheduling is encouraged to ensure availability and a great experience.
Can I buy food at the carousel?
How old is the carousel?
It opened in 2012 as a new carousel. See our About Us page for more information.
Who owns the carousel?
The carousel is a non-profit organization. The building and park are owned by the Village of Saranac Lake.
Are pets allowed in the building?
Yes, if they are on a leash, but only service animals are allowed to ride the carousel.
Can the Happiness Pass be shared among people, or do I need one for each child?
The Happiness Pass can be shared with family and friends, and it does not expire.
Is there an age limit or weight limit for riding the carousel?
No one is too young or too old to ride the carousel. Children under three do need an adult standing beside them, and both are covered by one fare. There is a weight limit of 250 pounds. If you are over this limit, you can safely ride in the boat on one of the two stationary animals {Harry the Horse and Paws the Black Bear).
Who came up with the names for the animals?
The animals were named by the elementary school children (grades three through five) in three local schools: Petrova, Bloomingdale, and St. Berhard’s. Each class was assigned an animal to name; they brainstormed names and voted.
Why is there a ladybug on each animal?
The New York State insect is the nine-spotted ladybug.
Does the carousel have free days?
There are several events each year during which rides are free. Check the website for upcoming events. In addition, we are participants in the Museums for All program, which offers $1.00 rides year-round to qualifying customers (EBT card and ID required).
Can the carousel be rented for parties?
Yes. See our Rent Us page for more information.
Does the carousel have a gift shop?
Yes. We have a wide selection of toys and gifts, many with an Adirondack theme.
How many animals are on the carousel?
The carousel holds 18 animals and one boat, with another six animals in readiness to be rotated in and out as needed (as when an animal on the carousel need a repair).
Is the carousel ride accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. The bench in the boat can be removed to accommodate a wheelchair, and there are wheelchair tie downs if requested. A ramp makes it easy to access the boat.
CAROUSEL
RULES
- A child must be 3 years old or 36" tall to ride the Carousel alone.
- A parent or guardian must stand next to a child who cannot ride alone.
- All children must be seated when the Carousel is in motion.
- Riders must not change animals while the Carousel is in motion.
- Only one rider per animal.
- No food or drinks are allowed on the Carousel.
- No running or horseplay on the Carousel.
- No live animals, except service animals, are allowed on the Carousel.