A dazzling experience
Be whisked away on a magical Carousel ride with Indiana roots that date back more than 100 years. For years after it opened in 1917 at White City Amusement Park—later renamed Broad Ripple Park—only White families were welcome to ride the Carousel. Now that it is at The Children's Museum, all children are welcome to ride!
The intricately painted Carousel animals were salvaged from the original ride. A museum favorite, you won’t want to miss this!
Carousel rides are free for member children and children under age 2; nonmember cost is $2 per ride per child. The $2 fee per child rider helps fund ongoing care and maintenance of the Carousel. Accompanying adults will be free of charge.
Please note: riding of Carousel animals is limited to children 17 and under only. Adults are still welcome to sit on the benches or stand beside their child at no cost, but will no longer be permitted to ride on the animals. This beloved collection item is designated as a National Historic Landmark and the museum is proactively working to preserve the iconic piece so that it is around for many years to come. Thank you for helping protect it!
Located on Level 4
Advance tickets encouraged!
Carousel Wishes and Dreams is included with museum general admission and membership. Save up to 25% when you buy at least two weeks in advance. For unlimited visits, become a member today!
Dream big
Designed for adventure and interaction, Carousel Wishes and Dreams has fun for young and old.
- Explore the maze of mirrors and life-sized kaleidoscope
- Visit the games and puzzles arcade
- Climb a tree house
- Serve pretend treats in a retro ice cream parlor
We would like to help you prepare ahead of time for some of the sights and sounds you will experience at The Children's Museum. Here's what you can expect in this exhibit.
You can find more information and tools on our Sensory Resources page.