One of Virginia’s most charming seaside throwbacks is officially back in motion for the season.

The historic Hampton Carousel, a 106-year-old landmark that has delighted generations, has reopened for spring and summer operations—offering a nostalgic ride that feels increasingly rare in today’s theme park landscape.

To mark the occasion, the city will host a Carousel Carnival on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring free rides and games. It’s a fitting celebration for an attraction that has long been part of Hampton’s identity.

The carousel’s story stretches back to the 1920s, when it originally operated at Buckroe Beach Amusement Park. After the park closed in the 1980s, the ride was carefully dismantled, with its hand-carved horses cleaned and restored during the process.

In 1991, the carousel found a new home in downtown Hampton, where it continues to operate today. Not long after its relocation, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places—cementing its status as both a cultural and historical treasure.

Visitors can now ride daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (closed Mondays), with rides priced at just $1, making it one of the most affordable—and authentic—family attractions still operating in the country.

For those looking to experience a piece of living amusement history, this is about as classic as it gets.

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