A Carousel for Missoula — Attraction in Missoula

Truly one of the greatest carousels in the country in terms of quality and fun. The attention to detail put into the carousel, from the moving facade on the pipe organ with a selection of specially-written music, to the decor on the inside and outside of the building, to the dragon-shaped stand holding rings which riders reach for in hopes of getting the brass (and a free ride), to the several dozen unique, intricately hand-carved horses, I'm not being too dramatic to call this a work of art.

While obviously made with children in mind, the atmosphere and fun can really be enjoyed by anyone; this carousel spins much faster than any other I've ever seen, which is exhilarating as a child and is still amusing after growing up.

Plus, the carousel is nicely placed in between the event-filled Caras Park and the similarly medieval-themed Dragon's Hollow playground which is large and intricate enough to entertain on its own. As such it is perfectly situated next to the river as well as the most active areas of downtown Missoula.

The absolute perfect place to go for taking kids, whether on their own for a bit of fun or in groups as a visit or a nice party venue. Even adults can come to appreciate the volunteer-made art and architecture, and - hell, who are you kidding, get a token and...

We love visiting here when we are in the area visiting family. I've been going every few years for the past 20 years. Now I take my kids and they love it. They don't allow you to stand at the side of the horse anymore to aid your little kids saying they never did. (It used to not cost anything if you were not on a horse helping a little one.) So if there are only rides with high saddles left, good luck. $1 per token, 1 token 12 and younger, 2 if you are older. So to ride with a little one on your lap it cost $3 for the one horse. At least isn't expensive. Also, to ride you need a mask. Not to wash your hands after playing on the playground or in the building, just while within the Carousel gate. All in all it is and was a good time and...

It was so much fun! The carousel went pretty fast. My two daughters and I pulled plastic rings from a dragons nose as we were going around. It was challenging to grab a ring but we got all of them. The last ring is brass and whoever gets it, gets a free ride! I'm in my late 60's and felt like a kid again, riding a horse on a carousel. We laughed so much and rode the carousel a couple of times. The elderly (older than I) gentleman that was in charge, told us that a 97 year old woman got on a horse last month. She holds the record. It's for all ages and you are never too old to ride a carousel. Cute little gift shop. Friendly and fun staff there. A great experience and a must do if you are visiting...