One of the Mall’s more unexpected treasures is the Carousel [map] outside the Smithsonian Castle. Enjoyed by kids since 1967 this merry-go-round was a bit of a scandal when it was first suggested by Smithsonian Secretary S. Dillon Ripley. People were concerned that the Castle might gradually become a mini Disneyland.

In 1967 Ripley gave up on some of his additional ideas of puppet shows and light shows and managed to get a 1922 carousel installed that included 33 colorful horses and a Wurlitzer pipe organ. In 1981 it was replaced with the 1947 vintage carousel with 60 horses that we see there today. There is no longer a pipe organ, but they still play the classic merry-go-round music you'd expect.

Price: $2.50
Hours: Weather permitting it’s open during regular museum hours.

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