Tesla Model 3 Maiden Voyage - CW Parker Carousel Museum - Leavenworth KS

Carousels.

They seem to be becoming a thing of the past. Forgotten about and moved on from. Replaced by more interactive and technological rides at parks and carnivals. You might not know it, but they actually have a very long and interesting history, bringing joy to children all around the United States, when long range transportation was still sparse.

That history, is encapsulated in a small museum hidden in the town of Leavensworth Kansas. It essentially operates as a community center for locals. They hang out there during the day and you can be sure to find a puzzle on a table that they will invite you to put a couple of pieces in. After you hang out with the wonderful ladies for a bit, they will let you tour the upstair that has artifacts ranging the entire history of the carousel.

The cherry on top here though, is a ticket to ride one of the oldest carousels left operating. When I first was offered the chance, I dismissed it, thinking it would be like your average ride that you had when you were a kid. They convinced me to reconsider and I’m glad that I did. I forgot that this was made before safety regulations and this thing kicks! I really do look forward to the next time I get the chance to stop by.