International Museum of Carousel Art - Hood River, Oregon

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The Carousel Museum in Hood River is closed.  There are hopes that it will be reopened in Dee but there is no certain timeline for this.

Discover a Magical Attraction in Hood River: The International Museum of Carousel Art. If you're traveling in northwest Oregon and you happen to be a fan of carousels, you won't want to miss the opportunity to view the world's largest collection of antique carousel animals and carousel art. Travel from Portland east on I-84 about 70 miles and you'll come to Hood River. More than 150 carousel animals are exhibited at the International Museum of Carousel Art here.

The incredible collection of hand-carved, wooden carousel animals at the International Museum of Carousel Art includes works by many master carvers. Individual carousels usually include artwork created by only one artist. The Museum presents a unique opportunity to compare, contrast and enjoy many different styles of carousel animals. 

The majority of the antique carousel animals and artwork on display at the International Museum of Carousel Art is from the incredible collection owned by Duane and Carol Perron. The Perrons' collection of carousel art began in the 1970s' with just one carousel horse. Today the couple owns the largest and most comprehensive collection of carousel art in the world, including over a dozen complete carousels.

A large portion of the Perron Family Collection of carousel art is on permanent loan to the International Museum of Carousel Art. The Perrons and other volunteers have assisted in restoring a number of historic carousels throughout the United States. The proceeds from the operation of these restored carousels are used to fund restorations of additional carousels. An average of two additional carousels are restored each year as a result.

The International Museum of Carousel Art operates as a non-profit organization, as it has since its foundation in the early 1980s. The Perron family remains devoted to helping preserve and restore carousels throughout the world.

In addition to the many beautiful and intriguing carousel animals displayed at the International Museum of Carousel Art, you can also see (and hear) an operational 1917 Wurlitzer band organ as well as other rare artifacts. Exhibits focusing on European animals, American carvers, and the restoration process involved in preserving carousel art are some of the other highlights of the Museum.  

The Museum of Carousel Art was formerly located at 304 Oak Street in Hood River. It is presently closed temporarily while it moves to a different location (September 2008). You can find out more about carousel art and contact the Museum for more information on the grand re-opening of this fascinating attraction.

While visiting Hood River, you'll most likely need to take a break during your day's activities. There are several hotel options available and great rates can be found on HotelsCombined.com.

304 Oak Street,
Hood River, Oregon 97031