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Carousel of Happiness: A Whimsical Mountain Escape

Experience whimsical joy at the Carousel of Happiness in Nederland, CO, a magical menagerie of hand-carved animals and vintage charm.

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Nestled in the mountain town of Nederland, Colorado, the Carousel of Happiness is a restored 1910 Looff carousel featuring 56 hand-carved animals. A Vietnam veteran's vision brought to life, it offers a unique and joyful experience for all ages, accompanied by the sounds of a 1913 Wurlitzer organ.

A brief summary to Carousel of Happiness

  • Monday 11 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Carousel's website for seasonal hours, as they vary throughout the year.
  • Consider visiting during the week for a less crowded experience.
  • Take time to explore the town of Nederland, known for its quirky charm and mountain setting.
  • Look for the observation window to watch the carousel's antique gears in motion.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Boulder, take CO-119 (Boulder Canyon Drive) west towards Nederland. The Carousel of Happiness is located just off Highway 119 at 20 Lakeview Drive, next to the Train Cars Coffee Shop. Parking is available near the B&F Mountain Market. Parking fees may apply.

  • Public Transport

    From Boulder, take the RTD bus route 'H' to Nederland. From the Nederland bus stop, walk approximately 10 minutes to the Carousel of Happiness at 20 Lakeview Dr. Check the RTD schedule for limited service times. A one-way fare is typically around $5.25.

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Discover more about Carousel of Happiness

The Carousel of Happiness in Nederland, Colorado, is more than just an amusement ride; it's a testament to the power of dreams and community spirit. The story begins with Scott Harrison, a Marine serving in Vietnam, who found solace in a music box that played Chopin's "Tristesse," evoking visions of a carousel in a mountain meadow. Years later, after returning home, Harrison rescued an abandoned 1910 Looff carousel frame and embarked on a 26-year journey to hand-carve a whimsical menagerie of animals. The carousel features 56 unique, hand-carved animals, ranging from a moose and a pig to a dragon and a mermaid; 35 of them are ridable. The carousel also features original art, including paintings rescued from a 1910 carousel and restored by Denver artist Edwin Friedman, plus a 1970s mural of endangered species. The entire structure resonates with a sense of warmth and joy, enhanced by the music of a 1913 Wurlitzer organ. The Carousel of Happiness is a non-profit organization that gives away thousands of rides every year to people who benefit from a place to find a moment of peace and happiness. The community of Nederland rallied to support Harrison's vision, raising $700,000 to build a permanent home for the carousel. The Carousel of Happiness opened on Memorial Day 2010. The carousel is accessible, with a wheelchair ramp and step stools. There is also a puppet theater and a story booth.

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