Since its establishment in 1998, The Heritage Carousel has created cherished memories for countless Iowans. Visitors of all ages and backgrounds are drawn to the Carousel, where they can enjoy a delightful mix of nostalgia, whimsy, joy, and pure fun.
Now, the Heritage Carousel is poised to embark on its most ambitious venture since its inception. The Spinning Forward Campaign aims to transform the Heritage Carousel into a true destination and establish a foundation that ensures its enjoyment for generations to come. Many families have created lasting memories at the carousel.
We invite you to join us in giving back so that future generations can experience that same joy.
Donate to our Spinning Forward Campaign!
Our History
The carousel came to life through the vision and commitment of J.C. ‘Buz’ Brenton. After experiencing the joy a carousel brought to visitors in Connecticut, he promised to create a similar attraction in Des Moines. Thanks to Buz’s leadership and generosity, the dream of a carousel became a reality in July 1998, when the Heritage Carousel welcomed its first riders.
Our Vision
The Heritage Carousel is an accessible and affordable destination where everyone creates memories.
A central component of the Heritage Carousel has always been providing a memorable experience to anyone, regardless of their background and income. For this reason, the Heritage Carousel has maintained a $0.50 cost to ride for kids since it was opened in 1998.
Heritage Carousel:
Cost for a single ride:
50¢ for kids
$1.00 for adults
In Comparison:
Adventureland Single Day Admission per child (3+) : $44.99
Blank Park Zoo Single Day Admission per child (2 - 12) $15.00
A Whimsical Tomorrow
The Carousel has initiated an ambitious plan aimed at maintaining the Heritage Carousel's affordability, drawing in more visitors and groups to Union Park, and ensuring that future generations can continue to experience this unique community gem.
The plan includes:
Building a new shelter and garden adjacent to the Carousel
Establishing endowment funds to secure sustainable operating resources
Allocating programming funds to entice new visitors and donors to visit the Carousel
Our campaign goal is to raise $1 million in funds!
Your support for the Spinning Forward campaign will help ensure the Heritage Carousel continues to bring joy to the community for years to come. There are a variety of ways you can support the campaign. There are a limited number of naming opportunities, please email us for more details: information@heritagecarousel.org
Many ways to contribute
Gifts can be made online by clicking the donate button or by downloading a pledge form and mailing it to the address listed below. Gifts can also be made from appreciated securities, IRAs, and donor-advised funds.
If you have questions or would like to learn more about how you can support the campaign, please reach out to us at information@heritagecarousel.org.
Our Mailing Address:
Heritage Carousel
P.O. Box 8352
Des Moines, IA 50301-8352
Federal Tax ID:
#39-1910802