Ameri-Go-Round

The Ameri-Go-Round is a carousel featuring 48 hand-carved wooden horses arranged in three rows alongside two decorated chariots with American patriotic imagery. The entire structure sits protected within a pavilion on the zoo grounds.

Built in 1918 by Philadelphia Toboggan Company for Cincinnati Zoo, this carousel later traveled to California before arriving in Seattle in 2006. Its journey reflects how these machines moved between American amusement destinations across the decades.

The hand-carved horses show the craft tradition of an earlier era, with gentle facial expressions and natural details that reflect master carver John Zalar's work. Visitors can notice the fine details and artistic decorations while riding past, which tell the story of how carousel makers once worked.

The carousel operates under a protective roof that shields it from weather year-round, making it accessible in any season. Plan to experience it during regular zoo hours when the ride is in operation.

Some horses display ornate details like golden griffins embroidered on their saddle blankets and carved animal hides underneath the saddles. These fine touches reveal the specialized techniques carousel makers used to create extra visual interest on each figure.