For a great summer day simply mix surf, sand, and sun. Spending the day at the beach is simply a favorite pastime for many Rhode Islanders. There's something a little bit nostalgic about hanging out on the shore. Add a beachy amusement to your day and you have the makings of an amazing warm weather escape. There is a nostalgic beachfront attraction in the Ocean State that has been around since the late 1800s and you are going to want to pay it a visit this summer.
Watch Hill is a coastal village and summer destination in the town of Westerly. It has gorgeous sandy beaches which makes it a popular shoreline paradise in the Ocean State.
As the tiny village comes alive with warm weather guests, the seasonal beach-side carousel also begins to spin for the season.
The Flying Horses carousel is a National Historic Landmark and is the oldest operating carousel in the United States where the horses are suspended from chains. It is believed to have been constructed in 1876.
The carousel was abandoned in Watch Hill by a traveling carnival back in 1879. The beachfront attraction has been entertaining children ever since.
There are twenty wood horses on this ride. They still have their original agate eyes. These enchanting animals are more realistic in looks than their later more fanciful counterparts.
As the ride begins to turn, centrifugal force takes over and pushes the horses outward giving them the appearance of flying through the air.
During the middle of the ride, rings are lowered for riders to grab as they pass by. Take the brass ring and win a free ride on this historic amusement.
Only children under 12 years-of-age may ride this carousel, but older kids and adults will love watching the little ones fly on the horses at this old-fashioned ride.
Splash in the surf and stroll on the sand while you are here. Watch Hill has some of the best shoreline in the state.
The Watch Hill Beach and Carousel is located at 151 Bay St., Westerly, RI 02891. From June 16th - Labor Day, the carousel operates from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. on weekdays and from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. on weekends and holidays. For early summer hours, visit their website.
Have you ever been to this amazing old-time beachfront attraction? Share your experiences in the comments section below.
Can't get enough of the merry-go-round style amusement? Take this incredible carousel trail through Rhode Island and take a spin on all of them.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
