Flying Horses Carousel Reviews

This is the oldest carousel in the US, so you just have to visit! My kids loved riding. And if you catch the golden ring you can ride again for free.

Very busy carousel. Horses are static but you can gather rings for a free ride. Young kids will like it.

No line, cheap admission, 2-3 minute ride! Just do it!
Fun for young and old. Don’t forget to try and grab the rings as you go around. The person with the gold ring gets another ride for free.

Ride the carousel and grab the brass ring. You'll love riding the colorful horses on America's oldest running carousel. Listen to the wonderful music and grab the brass ring for your free ride.

Historical site that the entire family will enjoy. Prices were decent, interactive and beautiful timepieces.

you have to visit and ride this amazing piece of history. We rode this every day of our vacation. My 3 year old was in heaven every time (so was I). I caught the brass ring the first day I rode and the last day.

It was delightful to watch the children go for the brass ring and enjoy the carousel. I wish the horses were attached to the moving gears the way they were in my day, but even stationary, it was fun to watch the faces of the young ones.

Get off the ferry at Oak Bluffs and walk about a block to the Flying Horses Carousel. This is a must see attraction for the entire family. The full size horses are for adults and children. The antique carousel is beautiful. Get the brass ring and win a free ride.

My girls (6 &7) loved riding on the carousel. They have never (and neither had I) seen a carousel that they could pull the rings. My husband and I did not ride, but there were many adults that seemed to be having a blast!

It was great to take my daughter to the place I'd been at her age. It was every bit as wonderful! Where else can you actually grab for rings?

Both of my kids, 7 year old girl and 12 year old boy, both enjoyed the ride. They said that it was well worth it and that they would do it again.

Flying Horses Carousel is the oldest operating platform carousel in America, moved to the islands in the 1880s. It is as low tech as you can get and for that reason you should go. The carousel is one of only a handful of carousels that still have brass rings for a rider to attempt to grab as the carousel rotates which adds a bit of competition to the experience. At first you get to practice & then they announce that the brass ring has been added and off you go! If you “grab the brass ring” (yes! that’s where the expression originated) you win a free ride. Take a few moments to enjoy fun from another era, it is a unique experience.

I think this is a must see for young and old alike! Read the history of it and it makes it even better. I'm not a fan of riding around in a circle, but just to see it is well worth it!

This is the oldest continuiously operating carousel in America. You need to go if for no other reason that to see it. They still have the rings you can collect and if you are the lucky one to get the brass ring, you win a free ride. There is not a lot to say, except to visit and take some pics.

This is an old world carousel where you can pick the metal rings as you go around. If your my age you understand and if not go learn how to have simple fun. I had my grand children 👶 with me and they had a marvelous time. One of them caught the brass ring for a free ride. Lots of fun. 👍

If you love carousel horses, add this location to your list. Fun for children and adults alike! They are in an enclosure and protected from the elements. Plan extra time for parking in high season.

What a wonderful experience for all of our generations. This is a must see and do for all families visiting Oak Bluffs..

The children love this carousel. If they catch the brass ring, they get a free ride. $2.50 a ride.. Fun!!

The carousel is nice, old, and historic, but the horses don't go up and down and don't begin to fly!

We only did this excursion once while we spent the week in Oak Bluffs but the kids always enjoy a couple go-arounds to catch the rings.

Great time trying to grab the rings on the Flying Horse. Fun little carousel with great charm. Good for all ages !

housed in an unassuming building near the port in oak bluffs is a rare piece of history you will really enjoy seeing - even if you don't hop on for a ride. This is an authentic, still working, 1890's carousel and is awesome to see it still going. GO and take a look and see something that has likely provided a big smile to every kid (and kid at heart) that has seen it ;)

The pictures pretty much say it all. No moving horses. There is a brass ring dispenser located such that virtually every kid who tried ended up with a stack of brass rings. Somehow, there was a special ring that got you a free ride, but didn't figure out how that worked. My parents (80 years old) thought is was really quaint and were glad we popped in; our teens were unimpressed. Pretty much the closest thing to the ferry terminal (shops and food are farther away), and it was indoors out of the sun, so it was a good place to spend a few extra minutes before joining the ferry line.

This is a must see and experience when you come to Oak Bluffs. This antique piece of yesterday is the classic metaphor for life. Cliche?--not to me. The ancient feel of the whole experience links one to yesterday and still creates excitment and joy in kids of all ages. The thrill of the brass ring and grabbing multiple rings if you try hard never gets old. The only hint of a down-side is watching some people disrespect this landmark and not help preserve it for generations to come.

Lovely carousel. Well informed host. Great history. Was not in operation while we were there. But considering we were a group of 9 retired women, not a problem. We were allowed to get on the carousel. Great stop.

Love going here with the kids. They like to see who can get the most rings on the horses. We have been here many times.

The Flying Horses is America's first carousel. It is maintained in excellent condition and retains the traditional ring grabbing, music and the adoration of children of all ages.

We have been coming to Flying Horses for years. It is an antique carousel that is located in Oak Bluffs.

There is always a long line but it moves relatively quickly. This carousel does the whole brass ring thing. It is pretty entertaining to watch kids, teenagers and adults lose their flipping minds trying to get the rings.

It was a pretty neat attraction probably best from about 4-12 yrs old. A novelty with old style horses and ring feeders to collect while on the ride. Kids definitely enjoyed. Can take the younger kids on as well. A bit crowded and quite warm in its pavilion, but worth a quick visit.

Although the carousel wasn't operating (during off season it only operates on weekends), it was open from 10-2 (I think) for photos! Lee volunteers his time to have it open so people can take photos on the horses. He is extremely knowledgeable and friendly. We had a nice chat.

Not just a working carousel. Lots of vintage arcade games. Zoltar from the movie BIG was pretty cool. Right in the heart of oak bluffs, don’t blink or you might miss it.

My wife and I are the wrong age group to enjoy this. It's located at the end of Circuit Avenue near the docks. The building is very run down. In most cases, the older look would be charming, but here the dirty floors, peeling paint and cracks come off as unkempt and worn out. A large 80 gallon garbage can sits right in the middle of the room. It's a focal point and should not be.

There are two different types of entertainment. Half the building is filled with arcade games, toddler rides and prize games. The other half of the building has an antique looking carousel. They have added an unusual feature that is very cool and fun to break up the slow sping. There is a ring dispenser mounted on the wall. As you go around, you grab a ring. If it's brass, you win a prize. Most are just regular rings. You place them on a spike on the top of your horses head. It's highly entertaining watching full grown adults try to grab three and four rings before they spin out of reach. We laughed watching people trying to grab them.

This place is geared for families and small kids. Teens will like it for a few minutes, but the games are really not their style. The ring challenge will get most teens going. They will like this. For empty nesters, this place has no value to visit.

Are children who are three and a 8 years old both enjoyed the antique carousel and the arcade. It was a very small arcade but had perfect toddler games. The carousel was unique as if incorporated a ring game while on it. Inexpensive fun, can't be that!

Kids enjoyed it. They had fun snatching the rings. Go first thing in the morning because it gets very crowded and the space is small.

OK, I am a carousel buff, and this is a must-ride. From the looks of my fellow riders, this is for all ages. If you want a chance to grab the brass ring, choose an outside horse and don't be afraid to reach safely for it. The music is loud and fun, the ride long enough, and every time you ride a carousel, your life is extended one year!

We didn't know about this on our day trip to the Vineyard. It was one of the locals that pointed it out to us. We took our 16 month old grand daughter on the ride and she loved it. You can also buy a children's book about the carousel there too. A recommend.

If you visit Martha's Vineyard, be sure to visit the Flying Horses Carousel. This is the oldest carousel in America and all of the horses are hand carved. It is a little smaller than I expected but young and old alike enjoy their turn taking a spin on this vintage attraction. During your trip around the carousel, riders can take their turn at attempting to grab the brass rings. It is a National Historic Landmark, and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. It is a wonderful attraction located in the Oak Bluff Section of Martha's Vineyard.

The carousel is one of only a handful of carousels that still have brass rings for a rider to attempt to grab as the carousel rotates.

This was my second trip to Martha's Vineyard and first time without children. My husband and I went on the carousel anyway because it is so much fun! The price is a bargain too! We pulled a brass ring and won a free ride! This is a must do attraction at any age!

I kept seeing this place as one of the top things to do in Oak Bluffs. My thoughts were “why?”. Well we walked past and went in and I am glad we did. This vintage carousel is worth a look. And my teenagers enjoyed riding it and collecting rings. Fun atmosphere!

featuring antique horse, this ride is a Martha's Vineyard classic and is located indoors out of the sun's heat. Don't expect only kids on the ride, there are adults as well competing for the coveted brass ring. Be warned it is loud with children's shouts and the carousel music so the more sensitive child should skip this.

My teenager didn’t want to ride. Very much a little kids site or those recapturing their childhood! My husband took pics because he visited the carousel throughout his childhood- Nostalgic

This is a beautiful old carousel where grabbing the brass ring is still a thing you can do. Grab a ring and get another free ride!

Very fun atmosphere. No long waits. We had our folks go a couple of times. Also some arcade games and rides to go to. Really nice staff as well.

One of the most idyllic places in the nation is Martha's Vineyard and one of the best places to spend time on the island is in Oak Bluffs. Moments are so carefree and sweet in this corner of the island especially with Flying Horses Carousel. People of all ages can enjoy a ride on this classic carousel (the oldest in America). Definitely a must stop for children and adults alike. A thrill of a ride!

For the 10th year in a row, my daughters made the golden ring a contest. This is such an annual tradition now we can't help ourselves we buy the 10 ticket card. This year We pulled the golden ring 2 times. Even if you have pre-teens get them to try this. The horses are wonderful. Never miss a chance to try it out.

This is not just a merry go round! It’s an adventure! You have to grab rings as you go around and the 2 people who grab a grass ring, wins a free ride! We went almost every single night!! My small kids had a blast. Parents with very young children can join by sitting on the bench!

My husband managed the two older and I held my 11 month old. Great fun!!

The Carousel was beautiful with the recondition horses. It was stunning. It was interesting watching the riders try to catch the brass ring for a free ride.

Everyone should take one ride on this piece of history and bring the grandkids. It's not as jazzed up as newer rides, but goes faster than you would expect it to. Let the kid in you out for so,e fun! We'll be back with the grandkids in the near future. A steal at $2.50 per ride!

The carolsel doest go up and down, but it does have the brass ring you can get and that is something you NEVER see..so glad we stopped!

Great way to enter Martha's Vineyard in Oak Bluffs as we got off the ferry. My kids, my wife, and I enjoyed riding the oldest carousel in the country. At $3 per person, this an must do experience in Martha's Vineyard.

Came back to visit with my grandchildren, brought back great memories of taking my own children when they were young. Worth the short boat ride from Falmouth!

No kids with us in this trip! We just stepped in , took pictures, and left. Interesting history!
Worth a stop for sure!!

If you have children this is a must do activity. Not expensive and a great part of history. My nephews love it and look forward to it every year

My husband always rode the carousel as a child visiting the island, and now we bring our daughter to ride the horses. She loves it, and we'll continue the tradition.

We enjoyed viewing the carousel, but it was too loud for our 5 year old granddaughter to stay in line to actually ride it!

My daughter loves it here, we've been coming every year for about 10 years. She likes to catch the golden ring. We always bring a friend an it's usually a hit with them too

How fun to go back in time on a beautifully restored carousel! It was just the right amount of time whirling around on our horses and hoping for the brass ring.
I highly recommend this to any visitor to Martha's Vineyard.

Not your regular carousel. It’s antique and involves a game of catching brass rings. Our 2-y-old loved it! He went again

What afreat way to keep history in the lives of our children today. Kids gettong ribgs for free ride.. the craftmanship.. just beautiful

Second time on the island and second time stopping here.. my daughter LOVES the classic carousel and the people working here could not be nicer. A must visit for sure!

Very competitive between all my teenagers to get the most rings! They were skeptical at first but once it started the competition was on!

Fun to see and ride on for young and old. If you cannot ride a horse you can sit in a gilded chair. Grab the brass ring for a free ride. Oldest carousel in the northeast.

What a blast from the past....enjoyed sharing the experience with our grandson. Quite a piece of history as the oldest operating carousel in the country.

Really cool place. The carousel was a lot of fun, even for our 8 year old. The staff was extremely helpful when our 6 year old couldn't reach the rings. Good ole' fashioned family fun!!

We ride all carousels anywhere near where we are traveling. We really enjoyed this one because it was indoors, reasonable priced and fun.

What a unique and fun experience! A glorious old carousel with a ring-grab game on the side. I was brought here by a friend and greatly enjoyed it. Hope to be back!

1983 was the last time I was on Martha's Vineyard. Either it's changed or my memory just isn't what it used to be, which very likely could be the explanation. Yup... the cool Gingerbread House Village is still there within the enchanting "camp" of a wealthy religious congregation..... Yup, Oak Bluffs is still funky, a bit honky tonk, and interesting (as well as beautiful)- but its extremely car-centric, overcrowded and a bit expensive. Did I say overcrowded?

Boarding the ferry in a built-up Woods Hole nearly an hour late..... there were SO many people, lots of confusion, and a VERY cranky child who screamed most of the time and tried everyone's patience. Plus lots of rolling bags and stairs, but a shortage of elevators. If you could 'go with the flow' and hung out on the upper deck.... the trip was actually really nice. It was very hot out this day (and during the whole island visit of 3 nights) but you could watch the ocean, islands, mainland and the rest of the world pass by on this short sail out to Oak Bluffs.

I had not ridden the Flying Horses Carousel when I was at Oak Bluffs the first time, in 1983. I was visiting a friend this time who's family had grown up there, and we were staying during his annual jaunt to the family homestead for a little R & R. We wandered downtown, a 15-minute walk, on Sunday. The carousel was there alright.... looking nostalgic and appealing, and teaming with children, baby strollers and obsequious Mothers keeping an eye. I asked the young staff what the cost was and what were their hours, for Monday as well. The curt 16 year old girl at the ticket booth answered matter-of-factly "$3.00, 10-10." OK, so they are already done with tourists. She might have been an American among so many young Albanians working in Oak Bluffs this year.

I was disappointed to find that the horses on this small carousel, the oldest in the nation, did not raise and lower. They remained motionless on the carousel floor. The flying horses don't "fly" at all, as it turns out. Well, I guess that's okay.... I mean, for $3.00..... and its an antique and nicely-maintained, and they play old-fashioned calliope music. But I just couldn't bring myself. Not only did I feel like the dirty old man (though I was sure I was still just a child, inside) but I so did not want to deal with crying children, doting suspicious parents, and germs galore. They don't offer disinfectant spray bottles and I didn't have hand sanitizer. They DO still do this thing where you can reach out and try to grab a brass ring from its post on each trip around, which seems dangerous to me... but what do I know? If you snag it, you get a consecutive ride free, but hopefully not a cold germ. Someone did grab it on one of the go-rounds while I was watching.

I couldn't believe it when I really weighed-it-out - and decided to walk away. Even though I was there again. Even though I had not ridden the carousel yet. Even though my friend was paying my fare. Even so, because I planned to return on Monday, when it was quieter (less children). So I returned on Monday afternoon. Nope, the place was crawling with children and families..... almost twice as busy as it had been the day before. I was over it. I was not going to ride. So..... this is one item that I will NOT be crossing-off my bucket list. and you know, it's okay. I appreciate the Flying Horses for what they are and their place in history. I don't need to ride them to feel complete. I am unlikely to go back, but I try to never say never.

It's small and loud inside, but worth the nostalgia and experience. If you go right when the ferry arrives, the line is long, so try to catch it when there isn't a ferry right there.

I think if the horses went up and down my 3 year old would not have enjoyed it, but since all the horses were static, she did enjoy it and when she saw me reaching for the rings on the outside horse, she tried to do the same with the inside horse.

All 4 of our kids- aged 11-13 enjoyed trying to catch the brass ring and win a free ride on the carousel. Very crowded after ferry lets off and claw games in the arcade seemed to be unwinable but kids enjoyed it. Staff was very friendly.

We see the carousel off the side of the road. We didn't try it however we peaked inside and saw lots of families enjoying their experience. This is apparently one of the oldest Carousels in America.

Beautiful old 🎠 carosel. A chance to grab the brass ring, great spot for kids along with video games. Can get a little loud.

How i know, this is the oldest carousel in the country, waaaittt...whaattt???can you just believe that???thats AMAZING!!!
Its doesn’t matter how old you’re, you should try it!!!also if you gonna be lucky, you can win the second ride for free(while riding, you can collect some rings, and if you find gold one, you can ride the carousel one more time for free!)

The history alone of this place is worth the visit. One of only 2 of its kind still operating in the US. It’s not just for kids-if your a history buff please check it out. It’s so cool!

Full disclosure: I have always wanted to ride a carousel with the ring feature CHECK!
It was as much fun as I'd imagined, and not as easy as it looked. I collected enough to have a respectable showing. They have rings for riders on both the inner & outer lanes, so no one is denied the fun. Ride costs 2.50, & if you get the BRASS ring you get a free ride. If you donate to the restoration/upkeep you get a sticker. Take a ride & try your luck, it was fun.

This was one of my kids' favorite thing to do on the island. I enjoyed watching everyone grab for the rings. There were several people who looked like expert grabbers and were able to catch several each time they went by. I really enjoyed just watching my kids and everyone else. We have ridden on many carousels, old and new, but the ring catching made this one unique to us. Without that it would be just an average carousel to me. It was $3.50 with tax per ride. The brass ring always seem to be the almost last one pulled every time we watched.

This is a must if you’re visiting the island. My 1 year old son and 3 year old niece had a great time on the carousel. Even adults can ride it. It’s the history behind it that makes it worth while.

This was a cute kid area of Martha’s Vineyard. Very nostalgic and the young children seemed to really enjoy this.

We came over in July from Northern Ireland and had a great time.
It was a brilliant place to visit, our 3 kids loved it as did we.
Would highly recommend when visiting the island and Oak Bluffs

I grew up with this carousel when I vacationed in Oaks Bluff every summer as a kid. Beautiful horses and chariots and nice carousel music. You can catch the gold ring for a free ride. Some horses go up and down and others are stationary. You can stand up and hold a pole to catch the rings if you want to. A nice place where memories are made.

When my granddaughters arrive for a week on the Vineyard each year, one of the first stops is always the carousel. We rode the horses probably a dozen times and the 6 year old captured the brass ring twice. Pretty exciting. The lines can be long and it's pretty warm inside so dress lightly.

So cool to see a preserved and working carousel. It’s right in the middle of the activity in Oak Bluffs, so you don’t need a special day trip.

It was enjoyable for my 7yo to ride the carousel and collect the rings! She loved it! I actually enjoyed it as well. I sat on one of the benches on the carousel. This is a "have to" when visiting MV with kids 😄

A fun pace to take th family for a ride on the oldest carousel in the US I believe. You will have to staning in a line but it goes quickly

This is definitely one thing to try during your visit to Martha's Vineyard. It's the oldest continuously operating carousel in the country apparently. It's old but it's definitely worth the time, especially if you have children.

This is a must for any visitor - especially if you have young kids. Good challenge in grabbing the rings. There's a way to grab more than one at a time, but I won't give away the secret.

It's $3 to ride the carousel, but it's fun. You try to capture the brass rings. If you get the gold ring, you get a free ride. You must go on the carousel if you go to Oak Buffs.

This was the first thing we did when we got off of the ferry. We went in and it was a little crowded. There wasn't a lot of organization as to where to go and pay when you first come in. We paid the $3.50 per person for the kids to ride. I do believe that was their favorite part of the day. There were adults and children on the ride and it looked like everybody was having a good time. I loved that my kids got to ride on a carousel that has survived for so long. Also, it is an indoor ride with a small arcade area but I didn't go to that part of the building.

Who does not love a ride on the carousel ?
Young or old , its the most fun to step inside the Flying Horses Carousel
In Oak Bluffs and take a ride!
The piped organ music with the colorful carousel will make anyones heart sing!
Go on, Take a ride.... Reach for the Golden Ring and enjoy!

This is a very old carousel in the center of town. Our son had his first ride on the flying horses recently and enjoyed it. There are also a few arcade games and things along with the carousel. Kids will enjoy it. Collect the rings as you ride and you can win a free ride!!! Costs $2.50 per ride.

Cute activity to do with the kids. Interactive and fun. The kids had a ball and it was fairly inexpensive

The Merry-go-round has been on the Island for over a Century and running with perfect rhythm and delightful music. These horses have been preserved well and the tails are real horse hair. There are big horses on the outside of the carousel and little horses on the inside of the circle. Everyone can catch a ring and the last one is Brass. That means a free ride. Rainy days are the most popular times to go but anytime of day is wonderful. Come and enjoy an antique gift to all.

All 3 of my grandchildren were on the carousel and my youngest age 4 couldn't reach the rings so the manager stood next to her horse and grabbed the rings for her as her older sisters could. No one asked for this exceptional service but I really appreciated the care and concern of this person. A great ride for all 3 of them.

I have been riding this carousel for the past 56 years and it never gets old! I bring all of my gust here for this memorable experience and they always feel like kids again after the ride! Ding, ding!!!!

When I first came to Oak Bluffs, I have no idea what I would find. Stumbling upon a carousel in the middle of the town, with something I least expected in Oak Bluffs. For me, I think it was the most fun and fascinating thing I saw that trip. It immediately transported me back to a time before my childhood. That was a time when we are appreciated older things. Even if you don’t want to ride, they will take any type of donations that you were going to give. Just stopping in to see the kids ride the carousel it’s worth a five minute stop. I don’t remember anything about a weight limit, but remember the things that were made that long ago Had low weight limits. The horses will not be the same size is at Disney World.

Located at the foot of Circuit Ave the Flying Horses Carousel has been operating for over 100 years. There are brackets that flip out once the ride starts that contain rings. One for the inside rides and one for the outside rides. See how many rings you can grab. My wife used to be able to grab seven when she was younger. Just before the ride ends they place a brass ring in the holder. If your lucky enough to catch it you get a free ride. We now take our grandkids there and relive our youth through them. Truly worth while for all.

Ok, so I like old carousels and the old
Wurlitzer concert organs. The organ is audible but not visible, is it prerecorded? Either way, stop in and get a peek at the oldest carousel in the USA. Not as grandiose as later construction, but beautiful in its simplicity.

This carousel was really cool! My 9 and 12 year olds loved it! While riding you're supposed to catch the brass ring to win a free ride...even the adults got into it!

We stopped in to see the Flying Horses Carousel while in Oak Bluffs this summer. It's America's oldest operating platform carousels and is a national landmark. It started its life as a Coney Island, NY amusement after its construction in 1876. It was moved to Oak Bluffs in 1884. (I can't fathom how these things last so long, but I'm SO glad there are people who strive to take care of them!) The horses are beautifully restored and the kids were having a ball, in spite of the extreme heat (no AC). They have brass rings that can be grabbed and thrown back into a bin for reuse. They weren't too hard to grab, so even younger kids were succeeding.

My 7 year old daughter really enjoyed this carousel. She won the brass ring once and got a free ride too! It is not as pretty as some of the other ones we have been to and it is quite small in a hot building. With that said for $2.50 you get a fun ride and it is worth it for the kids.

Lovely little activity on the oldest carousel. The children compete for a ring as they going around to win for a free ride. Even i got into the fun of it all with my son.

This wonderful fun place has Flying Horses and a few historic arcade games. Reminds me of my childhood. So much fun to search for the “brass ring” on the Horses, great for kids and nostalgic for adults.

Historic and iconic. The oldest active carousel. A must for kids of all ages. The ride has 2 silver ring dispensers on inside for little kids and external for bigger kids that you grab and collect. Every ride has 1 gold ring and for that one lucky person who collects it gets a free ride.

We have been to Oak Bluffs twice now and both times we have stopped by this wonderful carousel. On the second visit, we had the whole family on the trip. All of us had a great time riding on this vintage carousel. Some of us enjoyed it even more than others, as my son's friend managed to catch the "Brass" ring, not once but twice. (catching the brass ring gets you a free ride)

My husband and I dont have children but this is a must-do just on the principle of it being the oldest working carousel...plus getting the rings is fun! There is a child in all of us!

Didn't ride it but it was great to see it. Reasonable popcorn too. Riders get to grab rings as they go around. Very amusing.

This is an interesting historical visit, but as a carousel it is not that great. Small, old and plain does not make for an interesting ride. The fact that you can catch the brass ring takes it to 3 stars.

This carousel is a work of art harkenning back to a simpler time. This is certainly part of the reason I have fond memories of my summers on Martha's Vineyard. Go be a kid again and remember what it is like, before the World beat you down, to reach for that brass ring and know one of the simple joys of L I V I N.

I first rode the Flying Horses at age 8 in 1954 and will never forget the thrill of stretching for the gold ring. Generations of Island kids and summer kids alike have had that experience. Now owned by the Preservation Trust this merry go round is the oldest American platform carousel still in operation. Give your kids a break from the digital world with this very analog experience. Help your kids appreciate the history with some of these Flying Horses facts from the Preservation Trust website:
The Flying Horses Carousel is the nation’s oldest platform carousel and has been designated by the U.S. Department of the Interior as a national landmark. Constructed in 1876 by Charles Dare, it is one of only two Dare carousels still in existence. Originally operated as a Coney Island, NY amusement, it was moved to Oak Bluffs in 1884, where it has lived in its red barn, delighting generations of Island residents and visitors ever since. The carousel was acquired by the Preservation Trust in 1986 to prevent it from being dismantled and sold piecemeal to collectors of antique carved horses. The Trust undertook an extensive restoration of the Flying Horses, returning the carousel to its original appearance, complete with the historic panel paintings that were done by a Dare factory artist. The horses were individually restored by Rosa Regan, the premier carousel conservator in the United States. They feature real horsehair manes and tails, and distinctive objects in their glass eyes. The 1923 Wurlitzer Band Organ plays tunes that our grandparents would remember, on original paper rolls. The highlight of every ride is the chance to grab the lucky Brass Ring!

We visited the Flying Horses today and it was amazing. The children-age range 6-18, enjoyed the Carousel. It was very clean and well managed.

We’ve all been on carousels but how many keep you busy trying to catch a brass ring everytime you go around? The kids loved it, it was unique and although we didn’t catch any brass rings, it was fun.

Beautiful kept up antique carousel, very interesting to see. Wish it was actually running while we were there.

The 'Flying Horses' have been around for a long time. It is a great activity to spend time with children. It is one of the oldest carousels in the country.

My daughter and her friend, both 17, always insist on visiting the Flying Horses on our last day on the Vineyard. It’s nice to have something so nostalgic still around and that even teenagers find it fun!

When in Martha's Vineyard we stopped in at the Flying Horses Carousel. While I only spent a few minutes there, it was a fun place to visit, given it's history. I did have the cotton candy which was delicious!

My kids had a blast on this. I helped my 3 year old daughter grab the rings each time and she put them on the "unicorn" horse and kept telling me how much fun she was having. Definitely worth doing!

I take my daughter back every year for a ride on the carousel! She could spend all day on it. So much fun and something she always looks forward to and always want to invite friends so they can experience it too! A must site to visit.

This is a great stop in the small town of Oak Bluffs. Hop on a horse and reach for a brass ring! Kids of all ages can't help but thrill in trying to collect as many rings as possible before the ride ends.

You hear people talk about this attraction "everyone's done this". But hey, just because everyone else has done it doesn't mean you have. If this is something you want to see and do, don't let other people make you feel bad about it. It doesn't matter what age you are either. Carousels are a reminder of childhood. I know that they make me think of my childhood which the pipe organ music. Just take a ride and let the good times roll.

Ther is a section where you can try and snatch a brass ring, this has been around for many years and is the highlight of the experience. Be aware of small children getting hurt, fall off, or hurting their hands as the carousel circles around towards the ring dispenser.

If you do get a ring, you get a free ride. Or maybe you can pass that on to someone who is waiting to go on.

Wouldn’t pass up a visit to Oak Bluffs without a ride with our grandchildren, they were more interested in the number of rings grabbed versus the brass ring. But they had a great time and memory of a life time.

Stopped in with my mom and my son (6) we all had a great ride and lots of fun trying for the brass ring! A very nostalgic experience and lots of fun.

The Flying Horses carousel in Oak Bluffs on Martha's Vineyard is America's oldest carousel. The horses and small and worn and stationary, but you won't find a more nostalgic ride anywhere! There is a little machine on the inside loop and the outside, and everyone tries to collect rings. There's a small pole on top of each horse head to put your collection. Then, once the music stops, the brass ring is loaded! From child to adult, everyone gets caught up in the excitement of getting "the brass ring." And if you get it, you get a free ride! It's old-fashioned fun and absolutely charming.

This is the oldest carousel in the country! It adorable and you try to get the brass ring as you go around. They sell popcorn in the place and cotton candy. My kids are older and we go here each time we are on the Vineyard! We have lots of laughs and a great time. You feel like a kid riding this ride. You need to buy tickets to get on the ride.

I love this place!!! I came here as a child and it's awesome that it is still here so I can bring my kids and enjoy it with them. We weren't lucky enough to get he brass ring but maybe next time!

Loved reaching for the brass ring ... was schooled. By an eight year old Girl In line. Worth the line that goes pretty quickly .

The Flying Horses Carousel - what fun! The cost is $3.50 but a reasonable price for the ride - hop on board and be a kid again!

I told my husband I could hear Disney. It turned out to be this carousel. It's a magical little gem. We saw many kids misbehaving on it (leaning way over, messing around). I wish they would ensure it's better taken care of.

You must see this historic carousel. It takes you back to a previous era. Also, the staff is very friendly and helpful. They make it fun

As an adult it was fun to ride the oldest carousel in America and try to catch the ring. A fun place for kids of all ages.

Transported from Coney Island Brooklyn in 1884, this is America's oldest platform carousel. Near the shore, a few blocks from the gingerbread houses.

This is a must stop if you have young children even though the horses do not move up and down. The carousel is precious and priceless for the joy it brings to children. The fun continues for the adults as well- if you are a grandparent - you can try to collect the brass ring for an extra ride!

We can't come to the island without a stop to the flying horses. The brass rings really make it. Be sure to check their hours in the off season before going.

The children won't appreciate the historical significance of this place, but they will love trying to capture the rings. Nice, cheap fun.

Fascinating to see such an old carousel still in operation and in great condition. The children on it were obviously delighted, while the parents and grandparents were taking pictures. If you have children, this is a must. If you don't, this is still a must to see.

Staff didnt seem to want to be there. Looked bored and unhappy. On Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, we went with four kids and three adults. The woman running it was sitting on the step at the doors smoking a cigarette and the Carousel was running. She said they were closed that they had the same kid for the last hour. We said well, here are seven new customers. She said no, we are closed and our payroll is "X" for another hour. It was about two hours before the posted closing time. Very disappointing and totally unprofessional!! It was a cousins vacation and the ony night we were all together to do so. Ten more minutes wouldn't have killed her. I did ride with my daughter the day before and it is beautiful.

No one is ever too old or too young for a ride on this beautifully maintained historic carousel in the heart of Oak Bluffs... Catch the brass ring and get a free ride! Popcorn, cotton candy, books and tees, plus a mini-arcade in the room next door, all combine for an innocent summer's afternoon.

Loved hearing that this is the oldest carousel in the nation. The man working took his time to explain its history. Would love to go back again.

We have been coming to the Vineyard for years and brought the kids (and now their children) to the Flying Horses every summer visit. There is something so authentic and fun about the music, the wooden horses, and the arm that dispenses the golden ring...truly a memory-making experience for all ages.

Have been riding the Flying Horses since I was a kid, and now I bring my own children. A beautifully maintained functional work of art, recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. Take note of the attention to detail--each horse has its own name, labeled on a plate mounted beneath each horse, and don't forget to check out their eyes!

The kiddos loved trying to get the brass ring all while riding the oldest carousel in the country! Fun experience for all!

Great and fun time going to see and watch people ride this old Carousel. Workers keep the pace moving so it does not take long to get to ride !

Kids loved it! They get rings, and if you get the gold one, you get to go again! Parents loved the history of it. Is well maintained, and amazing to think how many people has enjoyed this ride over the many years it's been. Very glad we stopped by.

We take visitors to Oak Bluffs at least once a summer. On the mandatory list of activities is to ride on the Flying Horses Carousel. Regardless of your age, this is fun way to spend 5 minutes and try to catch the gold ring. Ok the horses don't go up and down they are simply beautiful. Tap into your inner child and be sure to give this a try.

Hard not to like a carousel and an old one that has been well maintained is even better! Loved grabbing for the "brass ring" even though I didn't get one. Fun for adults and family alike!!!

My husband and I laughed like little kids as we tried to capture the brass ring. This was a fun little treat on our trip to Martha's Vineyard.

Think this is the oldest operating carousel. It is in a building and small but cute with history. Near the ferry boat area. Adults can ride as well. Everyone looked like they were having fun.

The carousel is iconic. We have come here every time we have been on Martha's Vineyard. Grab the brass ring!!

Oak Bluffs on Martha's Vineyard Island in Massachusetts is a time travel experience back to the early 1960's. Part of the charm of the area is the oldest carousel. It is indoors and not very elaborate, but you can still try to capture the brass ring in old fashioned style. There are a few old arcade games as welll such as Zoltar, and The Love Tester...lol The calliope music alone will make you feel like a kid again. The building is an old rickety building. There are stairs to get inside. It is quite close to the ferry.

It's an Oak Bluffs must. Go for the brass ring at the oldest operating carousel in the US. Good for kids + young at heart.

The rings are what makes this fun. If you have small kids its a must. They have a small arcade there too. It’s a pretty neat place to visit.

This is a quaint old carousel, and it's fairly priced to ride. Riding the carousel is a game, and you collect rings every time you go around, and whoever gets the bronze ring gets a free prize. All in all, a fun place even for adults.

A nice location in the heart of Oak Bluffs.

Though there can be long lines to "climb aboard", this historic "Flying Horses" caroiusel is a nice experience. And it definitely gives meaning to the phrase "going for" or "grabbing" the brass ring". Many carousels whether historic or modern, have highly decorated animals to ride. But very few have an actual "ring dispenser" where riders seek to grab the fabled "brass ring" (all the other ringss in thsi ride are plain metal) that gives the lucky rider, a free ride. Perhaps not like winning a car or a million bucks in a lottery, but it was a real hoot to see everyone (myself included) reaching out to grab the ring while passing by. And the added interest in this carousel is the fact that it is a definite antique, not modern recreation.

For a bit of simple time pleasure, a nice attraction to see in operation...or to ride in and try one's luck "going for the brass ring...."

Such a nice trip! My kids loved the horses, and one caught the brass ring! It's possible that it becomes mobbed later in the season, but when we went there was virtually no wait. Kids loved it, and I enjoyed the historical feel.

Brought the Grandsons here. This is quite the treasure. For younger people to see what excitement was before the arcade and video games was fun. Great job saving history as well. Thanks for a fun time.

Although we didn't go on the carousel (as the boys are in their 20s) it was a great place to stop, look and reminisce back to our childhood. Worth the stop.

This is a wonderful attraction that is not only fun for kis of all ages, but a slice of vineyard history as well. Great fun -- catch the brass ring for a free ride! Only drawback is that the preteen employees are empowered to be as rude as they want to the tourists.

This is an old time carousel, even if you don't want to ride it, at least go look at it. Fun for all ages, if you catch the brass ring, you get a free ride.

this was the first place i wanted to visit but once i went inside it was not what i expected. I guess i was looking for more elegant looking carousel

This Carousel is a landmark in the town of Oak Bluffs. Gorgeous hand carved horses. This town has awesome shops, great restaurants and cafes. A little bit of everything in this area around the Flyng Horses.

The carousel had been kept in good shape and looks like it did when it was in Coney Island. The kids (big and small) had a great time.

Sadly the horses where not opened, another family was looking forward to bringing there 3 yr old, I'm not sure why they don't stay open thru September! Such a shame! Not much else for kids except beach, we have many memories of our kids when we use to spend some time during summer months,

$3 a ride or book of 10 for $25. Two options to grab the brass ring, inside track for shorter arms and outside for longer arms. Must do for all ages fun

A wonderful piece of history with a twist! Super cute, a must do on MV! Kids ride on the flying horses and have to catch rings! Recommend the little ones sit on the inside horses so they can reach them!

After visiting for the first time last year we have decided to make this our annual "last day of vacation" activity. What a fun activity to do to help ease the pain of having to leave such a beautiful place and have to return to reality. Riding a carousel is fun in general, but this is a genuine, old fashioned carousel with golden rings to be won!!! When you can get two teenage girls to giggle over such a thing, you know you have a winner!

This is a must do when on the vineyard. Kids of all ages have fun grabbing the rings and trying to win the brass ring for a free ride. I went when I was a kid and now I take my kid....just a bit of fun to break up the day. Plus the carousel is an antique. For only $3 a ride give it a try.

This is such a super cute thing to do if you're on holiday in Martha's Vineyard! The oldest wooden carousel in the United States, it's easy to find on the main strip of Oak Bluffs, it's a bargain at only a couple of dollars for a ride and it's great fun whether you're 8 or 38!

Saddle up, grab a brass ring on your way round and collect a free ride...there's bound to be a queue when you arrive but it moves quickly and there are plenty of places nearby to grab a drink or a snack and come back later if waiting isn't your thing.

Is it modern and exciting? Maybe not. Is it charming and vintage in the truest sense? Absolutely. Take ten minutes out of your adult life to revisit your childhood and leave with a big old smile on your face.

Ride the carousel and try to get the brass ring! This is fun for all ages! An antique carousel that actually works! Kids of all ages will enjoy this attraction... buy the 10 pack because you’ll want to ride it again!

Quaint and like stepping back in time - a nice thing for kids old and young to do.
Just another special place on Martha's Vineyard.

This is a very old carousel and the horses themselves do not move up and down. It is located in the center of town and worth a ride if you are in oak bluffs and have small children. My 2 yr old son enjoyed it.

The experience is wonderful. Music and Brass rings. Wish the horses went up and down.
Staff was friendly and helped little kids.

You can't ask for more then a carousel ride for the family on the nations oldest carousel. They play a game during the ride that whoever gets the brass ring gets a free ride. The kids absolutely loved the game and the ride. I loved the old decor and the way they have maintained the look and originality of the carousel. All visitors to MV need to take a ride with the kids!

Its worth taking a look if your in town, is historical, if you like history or merry go rounds than its pretty cool.

Experiencing Flying Horses the first time for me was 56 years ago! It was thrilling then and I still feel the thrill now when I go around and catch the gold ring!! It's a must thing to do when visiting the island.

Take the chance to visit one of the oldest carousels in the country. Beautifully restored and you have the chance at a brass ring as well! Great fun at a reasonable price.

Really old indoor musical horse carousel where you try to grab rings from either the inside or outside arms while riding the horses. Whoever gets a brass ring gets a free ride and they announce when the brass rings move into the arms. It's a fairly long ride and it's only $3 for an adult. This ride isn't just for children!
There are also a few arcade games in the building.
The popcorn here is really good and it's only $3 for a large bag.

Have been coming here for the past 50 years or so. Always ride it when I am on the Vineyard even at my older age! Now bringing my great nice here to ride for the first time. Great memories!

This antique carousel was a fun stop and catching the rings made it more fun for the older kids. It’s also a bargain at $3.50 per ride, and a chance for a free ride if you catch the brass ring as my son did! It is centrally located near restaurants and shopping as well.

Flying horses carousel was a good time! We rode the carousel three times and my daughter got the brass ring on one ride so we got a free ride.

It is a historical site that has an old school feel. The staff was all younger kids but they were all polite and helpful.

They sell some snacks and there is a small arcade attached to the back side of it. It is just a block or so off the ferry, so it is easy to find. Definitely a fun stop if you have young children.

The kids enjoyed the ride. They liked pulling the rings from the arms and seeing who could get the most. Since it wasn’t busy they let the kids ride again without an additional ticket.

Americas oldest carousel with the added fun of going for the brass ring, which I did and won a free ride. Great fun for parents and all the children

Touted as the oldest continually operating carousel in the United States, this is definitely something to do when visiting Martha’s Vineyard, especially with children. There is a brass rings that can be caught as the carousel rotates and this gives you a free ride. Snacks available. Just lots of fun, especially for first timers and kids of all ages.

For our granddaughter, now 10, the Flying Horses is a major treat. She loves getting the brass ring and could spend hours here. I think it's fun too. The brass ring challenge makes all the difference in the amount of fun at a merry go round. We have been bringing her since she was 5.

The horses are truly beautiful with real horse hair and beautiful painted bodies and wonderful faces. Antique!

When we arrived we heard the music and decided to drop in. Funny how such a simple pleasure is so well received by all who are part of the crowd.

My daughter loves to go to this carousel. It's an old one and the kids go around and grab the Rings and whoever gets the gold ring gets to go on another ride. You can buy popcorn and they have a small arcade and it's right when you get off the ferry in Oak Bluffs if you walk forward you'll see it

This carousel is interactive where you reach out to grab metal rings from an arm that extends to the outside and inside portions of the carousel. The goal is to obtain the brass ring to earn a free ride. The owners have done a great job at maintaining the beautiful carousel. The length of time on the carousel is surprisingly generous.

The Flying Horses Carousel is an absolutely excellent venue that anyone will truly appreciate! You absolutely cannot visit the Vineyard and leave without going to The Flying Horses Carousel. They are the oldest in the United States and are very proud of that fact! It is especially enjoyable for all new visitors to the island and I strongly recommend it!

Stopped in really quick to take pics, maybe take a ride next time. All of the riders seemed to enjoy the carousel itself.

I enjoyed the charming history of this carousel. It is in great shape for it's age. It is great for kids of all ages, large or small.

Nice little fun spot for the kids. Adults can ride too, but it's really the kids who have the most fun. This is a true antique, where the riders can catch the rings!

This is the oldest of its type in America. Fun for all ages; try to score the rings, hear the classic
music...If you can, take the time to look at the building, the horses, paintings, etc.

It is closed for the winter; check status before you try to see it...

This is just a cool experience whether your an adult or a child. This is the oldest carousel in the country, and a steal for $3 a ride. This is probably the cheapest thing you can do while creating memories on this island. For $5, you can buy yourself a ride, and give your remaining $2 to saving the carousel. Young or old, this will put a smile on your face!

The Flying Horses Carousel is inexpensive and a fun challenge for those with quick hands to grab the rings. For those that just want to enjoy the sounds and feel of an old time carousel ride, it's great too. It's a quick ride so it won't take too much time out of your busy week at the Vineyard. Our sons, ages 10 and 12, have enjoyed it since they were four and six. A classic, fun attraction for all ages! Word to the wise...go when it's not too hot, as it can get stuffy in there while you're waiting to get on the carousel.

Caught on island on a rainy day or arriving after beach time. Bring the kids to this classic 1800s carousel. It's a right of passage for little ones visiting the island and parents trying to make the best if a foggy day. Grab an ice cream or fudge on one of the many shops in the neighborhood after.

This carousel experience, complete with brass rings to grab, is a wonderful throwback to amusement parks that existed when we were kids.

Fun for children and adults alike!
See if you can grab the bass ring and win a free ride!
If you don't do anything else on Martha's Vineyard, do this!
Brings out the kid in everyone.

The oldest is in Watch Hill, as it has always been. This one is the oldest PLATFORM carousel - and was built about 15 years later. Also this was was shipped up here from its original home - Coney Island. This is a nice ride - if you happen to be shelling out $ to come to MV (ferries are pretty darn expensive...). Otherwise save yourself the time & money and hop in the car over to Westerly. The nation's oldest. (The OLDEST is in Germany, but that's another story...)

I rode the ponies and went for the brass ring. This is the oldest working wooden carousel in the US. It is as beautiful today as it was in the '60s. Soo much fun to visit. All ages present. Short lines.

What a wonderful piece of history! A carousel built in 1876 an still going today! Absolutely a beautiful work of art and brings out the kid in every age. Grab the brass ring an enjoy the ride, I did!

Because the carousel is heralded as the oldest in the nation, I had to ride it for nostalgia sake. I felt like a kid again and the interesting thing about this carousel is that there are rings that you try to collect in search of the brass ring which will win you a free ride and bragging rights.

I cute experience for both young and old.

Super fun old charming carousel! Buy the 20 pack and just stop in on occasion and if you get the brass ring you score!!! Enjoy! It's a must do while there!!

A must see, of course. The carousel is a great piece of history and cheap enough. My only complaint is the people operating it seemed less than enthused to be there. It was the 'last day of the season' I think, so maybe they were just worn out from a season of tourists. Still worth the stop!

We well over 50 couples had a blast on the carousel....! It brought back so many memories of fun times....the music was so classic....! Go and Enjoy !

Nothing says family tradition more than a ride (or multiple rides)on the oldest carousel in America. In the heart of Oak Bluffs and in the heart of my family...the Flying Horses continue to put smiles on young and old faces. To get the brass ring not only once but twice will always be remembered by my 8 year old grandson and once by my 36 year old daughter is now part of our family lore.

A must do when you come to MV It's a blast for all ages! Just make sure you grab the rings! I got most of them and won a free ride where my husband could laugh and take pictures at my expense! Have fun!!! 🎉😁

A must do based on the historical significance and just the fun of grabbing the brass ring. Close to all the shops in Oak Bluffs

Ride the oldest carousel in the country and grab the brass ring to win a free ride!!! Fun for all ages!!!!

We do not understand how this is a highly rated tourist site. We respect historical sites in general, but this was pretty crap-tacular. Nothing to see here, folks.

if you're on the Island, you HAVE to stop at the Flying Horses, America's oldest carousel.. No matter the age, everyone can ride. My little guys love catching the rings. They have 2 arm, an inner for little people and the outer for taller ones. there are chariots so you can just sit and enjoy the ride.
There is an additional game room as well. However the real attraction are the horses and well they should be.
at $3 a ride, still an affordable, fun activity on Martha's Vineyard.

I don't ride carousel horses but I sincerely appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into making them. The tools and artistry that went into making this carousel reminds me of the turn of the century carousel at Walt Disney World albeit far smaller and housed indoors due to the location. This iconic landmark does not take a long time to visit but if you are with children you should stop for a ride. If you are an adult you can stop to appreciate the workmanship and antiquity of this landmark.

It is a very small building but cute, and vintage....We saw the Zoltar machine there and it reminded us of the movie Big! It really worked and all seven of us got our fortunes and believe it or not they were very close to our personalities! fun...

Its great that as an adult you can still go on. It's a ride that I recommend if you still want to fell like kide, Never to old to fell the magic!

A must see and do in Oak Bluffs. You can feel the generations of fun that have gone before. Delightful!

Historical carrusel,kids love it, but the interiors , lighting and paint long do for a revamping,
It is a shame that th interiors are inso bad shape...

The younger kids loved riding the horses and trying to catch the rings. Quintessential memories of Martha's Vineyard! It was so fun we returned again and again.

Yes it is old..but that is the charm of it. Trying to get the most rings and then the special ring...Kids love and so did the adults. Worth going on and very affordable.

So much fun for EVERYONE! We didn't realize that there was a game going on until we were halfway done with our first ride! Pay attention, grab as many rings as you can in the hopes of getting the brass ring!

So unique and so fun! All kids and some adults truly enjoyed this ride.
Everyone seemed seriously to snatch metal rings and tried to get a brass ring for one more ride.
Some were really good at picking a few rings at a time. Small kids also tried via small pony rides.
Such a fun place.
3.5$ per person per ride; 10 time pass is 30$.
Enjoy!

The beautifully crafted horses in this indoor carousel will remind older people of amusements of their past and likely amaze younger people, who will have the experience of trying to grab the brass ring while riding on these works of art. Don't miss it!

Smack at the bottom of Circuit Ave, a very short (2 min.) walk from the ferry terminal is every kids' desire - real old fashioned carousel with he chance for a free ride by grabbing the brass ring on each revolution. Hot pop corn, organ grinder music and watching the parents taking pictures of their child's smiling faces in just pure bliss. Hint: Don't wait for a rainy day to go here - forfeit an hour of beach time to give the kids a memory for the rest of their lives - I'm sure they'll thank you for it.

This was such a treat, to be able to see a working Carousel, the music brought back childhood memories.

We stopped in while shopping Circuit Ave. Upon entering you are whisked away to the past. You can tell how old it is and feel the past with that cheery clasic Carousel music. Classic snacks like cotton candy and popcorn for refreshments for sale. There is a small but cute arcade connected to the carousel which was fun to roam.

As a 60+ "kid", I love to ride a carousel wherever I get the opportunity. This one was fun because of its long history. The horses are beautifully restored and have real horse hair for the manes and tails. The horses don't go up and down, but you do get to grab the brass rings.

The kids absolutely loved this carousel, and it's a blast for adults too. On some of the runs, the adults definitely outnumbered the kids. The brass rings are fun and a rarity. The only knocks on this place are the size and the young, very disinterested staff.

During a recent visit to Martha's Vineyard, my husband and I stopped by to see this very old and historical carousel. It appears to be in good shape and is still thrilling the little ones with it's horses, music and spinning motion!

You have to be pretty bored to think this is special and it can get pricey to put the family on more than one ride. Yes, it is history for the area but...

This carousel brings back memories. It's old and fun to ride, even for a grown up person. If you're going to Oak Bluffs, definitely bring your kids or friends to this place for couple minutes of fun !

My 6 and 8 year old loved this old horse carousel! It was a nice long ride! The employees were sooooo super friendly with the kids! Great time!

You have not had the full MV experience if you haven't tried to get the brass ring at this historic carousel! The horses are antiques and are made with just beautiful artistry that you can't find any more. This is fun for all ages, from 1-101!

30 years ago I took my children on Flying Horses and this summer I had the pleasure of introducing my grandson to the tradition. Nothing has changed! It used to be the highlight of our night out and also the Arcade which was across the street, at that time. Definitely don't miss !

My family enjoyed this place very much. There is something special about this historic Carousel Museum/ride. Kids and adults had a blast. Very inexpensive and well worth it.

The carousel here is fun for all ages to try and collect the rings. The arcade itself is mediocre, with Ryan Family Amusements up the street having many more fun and interesting options. However, this is a great spot for younger kids, or those not wanting to spend as much as they'd likely spend at Ryan Family Amusements.

Too hot to wait for a ride. The history behind the attraction is interesting. Would not go back. Little kids would enjoy the carnival games and animal coin rides.

This is a quaint old carousel. Stepping into it takes you way back into a time long ago. I love getting the rings. My 6 year old son really enjoyed it and so did I.

This is the oldest Carousel in the country! Having visited as a child it was great to visit again as an adult and show my children. The only drawback is there is little to no ventilation so it warms up inside to staggering heat that at certain times of the day is unbearable So go early

Great place to take children for an indoor carousel ride. Walking distance from the Oak Bluffs Ferry.

This is a lovely venue for all ages. Take a ride, catch the brass ring and get another free ride. A lot of fun for everyone.

The carousel is so fun to be on because of the music and the game behind it! My family goes every year and it’s always great. The vintage horses are cool and the music is so fun and familiar.

One of the things I love the most about OB is the Flying Horses. Young or young at heart ride the horses and catch the brass ring. You won't be disappointed.

Keep in mind, this was a thrilling ride back in the early 1900's. It's authentic and a fun ride for all ages, and it even has the coveted brass ring to try to grab on the way around for a free ride . A don't miss attraction that will grab your interest for about a half hour, but still worth it.

This is the oldest carousel in the US. It has a fun feature of collecting rings as you fly by- we ride on every trip to Oak Bluffs. It’s very inexpensive but the lines can be long. Don’t miss this family fun!

Fun place for children of all ages and adults as well. Oldest wooden carousel that is exceptionally maintained.

My wife and I took my daughter here. She liked the horses and enjoyed her ride. Its very cheap and if you grab the brass ring you get a free ride. We didn't get one but we saw several who did. It was an enjoyable experience in a very historical place.

A unique opportunity to ride on an antique carousel. With just $2.50 per ride (less for a 10-ride card), it's a bargain experience not to be missed by the young and young at heart.
The rings are loaded at the start and offer practice to grab that brass ring. When they load the brass rings, not all are brass...not as easy as you think to grab that brass ring for a free ride.
Concessions and souvenirs are available to commemorate the experience. A must do for everyone visiting the island.

Don't miss this beautiful piece of the past on your trip to Oak Bluffs! It's $3 per person and if you grab the brass ring you get a free ride. No bathrooms

A nice piece of history right in the middle of Oak Bluffs! Have been several times and it is always as charming as the previous time. Love seeing all of the excited children!

This is the oldest continuing operating carousel in the United States. Local kids grow up being allowed to go , by their parents, only on rainy days. Reach for the golden ring, and win a free ride.

You don't see carousels like this. The kids are there for the ride and ring game (free rides if you get a brass ring) but this is a serious throwback in time for the adults.

You're never too old to ride the carousel, especially when it's the oldest one in America. The manes are "real hair" and the carousel itself is a work of art. And you grab rings as you go around and if you're lucky, like me, you get the brass one and get to ride again for free. It's a nice long ride too. Enjoy!

It’s over a century old and in regular use. Where else can kids of all ages have fun with an antique for three and a half bucks? It’s neat and everybody should try it!

I have just been back the Martha's Vineyard after spending many summers there and I was so happy to see the the Horses were still spinning and that the next generation of family has the chance to grab for the brass ring. Yes, the building is old, it was built in the 1870's. The chance to sit and ride on a piece of history is well worth both the wait and the cost. The wonder and the laughter is a memory my family often speaks of when we talk about our trips to the Vineyard.

The Flying Horses would be better if the employees here were more on top of things. We didn't know if you could actually ride them or not. It appeared that you could based on the signage but the gentleman working there spent 20 minutes talking to ladies and ignored the crowed that was standing around waiting to see if we could ride or not. I totally understand talking to customers and explaining the history but you still need to interact with the other 12 people that walked in while you were talking. People ended up wandering around looking at the horses and taking pictures. We did the same. When the large group, including us, were walking out the door someone asked if they could ride and he said yes. So clearly you CAN ride but you need to ask specifically. Otherwise, the horses are old and not in the best shape but still pretty good considering their age. If you like history and/or carousels this is a place you would want to check out.

Want to experience the Victorian carnival ride. Here is an authentic piece of history that dates to the late 1800s. Truly grab for the brass ring and enjoy this wonderfully maintained attraction. The kids just love it.

Tiny, tiny carousel but very cute and well worth the visit. The best part is trying to grab the rings, whoever gets a bronze ring is given a free ride. My son sat on the inside of the carousel and was able to grab a ring almost every time. He was disappointed to know that he couldn't keep the rings but had a great time grabbing them.

It's so much fun to view this beautiful old carousel... the oldest in America! Charming old building with the antique (but still working) carousel. The riders even reach for the brass ring! Gotta see it when you come to Martha's Vineyard.

Went in September, the website indicates the Carousel is open September 9-October 8: daily 11am-4:30pm, but the local information desk said it was only open at weekends, you can vaguely see the carousel through the windows, but as it was dark, so you could only just make it out. Not impressed.

Not much to say other than, it's a carousel. The horses were well-maintained and looked cool, but they didn't go up and down. The had the "grab the brass ring" thing, which was pretty cool. It's an indoor carousel, so not much in terms of views. $2.50 per ride. Adults riding with a little one are free. The staff was very friendly.

What a charming piece of history and fun to do.
Adults and children all jumped on for a ride and everyone was squealing with laughter.

This is the oldest platform carousel in America. It is more than just riding in a circle. There is a ring game, too, where riders try to grab rings as they circle around. If you get the brass ring, you win another ride. I got the brass ring, but gave my free ride to a little kid.

Flying Horses is the oldest carousel in continuous operation in the US. As such it's on the National Register of Historic Places. My family visits every year. My kids love trying to get the brass ring (which earns you a free ride). There's not much too it, but the carousel definitely has the feel of a well-loved bit of history. If you're in OB with kids, definitely make it a stop.

Somehow, in the course of one day, we landed here three times, at the begging insistence of my young son. It’s an experience that must be had when visiting Oak Bluffs.

It's always fun for a kid to go on a carousel, but this antique ride makes a game out of it the whole family can enjoy. Ride in circles on a horse of your choice and see how many rings you can get and if you are lucky and pull the brass ring you win a free ride. Sometimes the crowds get to big in the summer and they ask inside riders to give the little kids a fair chance and only grab for one ring at a time, but the outside loop is always fair game for grabbing as many rings as you can in a shot. My best grab is 4 but I usually only get three.

This was a real throwback to the good old days. Fun watching the carousel riders catch the brass ring and hear the music. Fun place right on the Main Street going into town.

My two granddaughters, 10 and 4 loved this antique carousel. Grabbing a brass ring proved too difficult for the 4-year-old who used my arm to get her rings. It goes a bit fast and the ride is just long enough. The excitement of maybe getting a brass ring never gets old.

Never have I ever ridden a carousel like this one. Old fashioned charm and the competitive aspect of finding that one brass ring! You just gotta do it.

Had to stop off to check out America's Oldest Carousel established in 1876. At $3/ride, it's reasonable for a piece of nostalgia. As you go around, you can snatch rings from dispensers and stack them on a "nail" above the horses' head to qualify for a free ride. It's interesting to see how carousels started and this is your chance.

The Flying Horses Carousel is the oldest in the US. While the horses don't go up and down like they do on some Carousels, they are beautiful. Our family enjoyed trying to catch the brass ring as the carousel went around. The line went quickly. Definitely check it out if you're in Oak Bluffs.

This is a classic game center for a rainy day on the Vineyard but do be sure to get there close to the 10AM opening time - later in the day it can get very loud and overwhelming. The carousel itself has old-school rings!

Had to ask for directions to this historic carrousel. I live where the carrousel museum exists. To be inable to see this one was a huge let-down. Building was dark. Carrousel is in a corner, with no window, so view is very limited.

So, the oldest working carousel in the country is just a wee bit different than the mall carousels of today. There is no canopy overhead, the horses don't go up and down, but ya know what? My kids didn't care in the least! They LOVED it, especially the challenge to get the rings. We didn't get the brass ring, but we got tons of the silver ones. Lots of fun and a great way to end our trip to Martha's Vineyard.

Generation after generation, a sublime experience for kids and the adults who bring them there! Can you grab the brass ring?

On the National Register of Historic Places, this carousel is a classic that first operated in 1884. Fun for the kids and fun for adults to watch the kids.

This is a long time classic on the Vineyard which all children and perhaps even adults should ride at least once. I ride it once at least once a summer. A few summers I have nabbed the brass ring. It is an exhilarating feeling and you feel as if the year ahead looks a little brighter due to that single ride. You also get a free ride if you nab a brass ring. The carousel itself is beautiful and has a wonderful vibe to its environment. The music and smell of fresh popcorn in the air add to the wonderfulness of it all.

American oldest carousel The carousel is in Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard, very near the Ferry drop off. It is a cute, fun break from the busyness of Martha's Vinyard! Very affordable.

We love the flying horses! When our 11 year old granddaughter is with us, we spend a lot of time there. (We visit on our sailboat every year, and since she was 4, we have been visiting the Flying Horses.)The brass ring makes it so much fun. I usually take a ride or two also. The staff is friendly, and the announcements are made by live humans, as befitting an antique carousel (1884). The horses are beautiful. I was surprised to see 1 star reviews but mostly they said the carousel was closed when they were here.

Quaint, Cute and Historical.
Its great that this carousel has been kept in solid working order for so long.
There are real rings for one to grab.

This is the nations oldest platform merry-go-round. It is called the Flying Horses Carousel. If you take a ride on it, try to grab the brass ring.

Had a great time riding the carousel horses. Great piece of history. Didn't get a brass ring for a free ride, but definitely a good experience.

Brought two toddlers and one caught the brass ring for a free ride! Lots of fun lines were short. Good for the toddlers and adults as well.

Fun beyond words. It appears the carousel was the only thing but there is an arcade attached too! Did I mention there is a photo booth too!?

We had a fun time going around the carousel while the weather was icky outside. The kids loved getting the rings and they had fun doing so.

I don't know if it's the oldest, since we've also been to the Paragon Carousel in Hull, Ma.

Visiting with my husband, 9 & 6 year old sons. The boys went on the carousel in the evening after dinner. From the history we read it is the oldest carousel in the country. The ride costs $3.50 per person. The carousel starts going then the music comes on, when that happens an “arm” that contains rings are able to be pulled out and you place these rings on the horses head, if you get the most (operator’s discretion) you ride again for free!

Very charming-definitely worth a stop on the Vineyard. The line was not too bad and the ring is 3-5 minutes. It was quite enjoyable. I would recommend for all ages.

Dont miss this treasure fun for all ages. Grab brass ring to get a free ride. $3 per person but memories are priceless.

i have been going to Martha's Vineyard for over 30 years and Flying Horses has stood the test of time. It really hasn't changed much since I was a kid...and that's very good. Certain things are better left unchanged and Flying Horses is one of them. It doesn't matter your age but it is more fun if you have a child who really wants to ride the carousel and tries to win the free ride by grabbing the golden ring. Highly recommended.

Gotta visit the oldest carousel in the nation. So much fun for all ages. We went on and actually got the brass ring= free ride you wom

The Flying Horses is one of my favorite things, period. It's beautiful and affordable, grabbing the rings are great (I was as proud of getting a gold ring at 30 as at 8). A must do in Oak Bluffs.

Brought me back to when I was little...So fun!!!I'm now 67 and felt like a kid for the ride!!
Couldn't grab the ring...but I couldn't when I was little anyway!

A place where childhood memories are made to last a lifetime! Year after year, must do with the kids!

What a pleasant surprise! This is definitely a trivia pursuit question. One feels as though have definitely time traveled - past life. Definitely a point to see if you children or you are a child a heart. Make sure you tune your ear to the traditional carnival background music.

Reminded me of my youth, great kids experience, great photo opportunity! You will want to get pictures of your kids finding the classic historical Merry go round. Also, pictures of the young at heart! Worth a visit if you are near Oak Bluffs, MA for the day or for the vacation week!

Note doesn't open until Saturday Memorial Day weekend! That goes for all museums on the island!, except the Camp Meeting Museum was open prior to Memorial Day weekend.

In a world of Disney and video entertainment this little gem may seem boring. I would recommend this to every age group. Even if your kids are not attracted to this, make them take a ride. Some day they will thank you.
Rides like this are what started all the more thrilling entertainment of today. Very few pieces like this still exist. Be happy and Thankful this one is still here.
Go for it, and Grab the Brass Ring!

We've been going to Martha's Vineyard for decades and always pay a visit to the Flying Horses. Our son and daughter who enjoyed the ride and their annual quest for the brass ring now have children of their own and two of these kids recently had the glorious experience of catching their very first brass rings this summer. The music, the live narration, the antique horses and classic motion (no up and down or high tech needed!), the generally festive atmosphere - all the stuff from which memories and dreams are made.

If you can find the carousel, which is inside a building, that's one step closer than I was after 10 minutes of looking for it. I was looking for an outside location. Little warm inside but when it starts up it cools down. Not a very big carousel but it is old. Lots of kids running around and as you ride the ride people try and get the brass ring to get a free ride. It cost $3.50 or so each for about a 4-5 minute ride, entertaining.

Unable to see the attraction or what all the hype is about.

Absolute waste of time and money.

Poky and boring.

I understand it’s a historical carousel but it’s not worth a visit.

went in as it was the oldest one - surprisingly my adrenaline junky children actually really enjoyed this ! they loved catching the brass rings for an extra go . it was also really quaint and felt like stepping back in time definitely
worth seeing

Fun for all! Grab those rings! Felt like a kid! We ride it every time we come to MV! It's a must see/do!

Its not just for kids.
The Flying Horse carousel is an Oak Bluff historic tradition. It is listed as the oldest platform carousel in the nation, operating since 1884.

I was skeptical but the old carousel is very well maintained. And catching the rings is quite diverting... my daughter loved it!

It's fun too act like a kid. I have never reached for rings before to try for the golden ring. Fun and a must see.

We were told that the Flying Horse is the oldest in the country. It did look old but it was very well kept. The people riding it seemed to be enjoying it and their ride time was long. It had the old brass ring grab which got you a free ride if you succeeded and it did look very hard to do. nice attraction.