Support the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s 1928 Spillman Carousel! The Spillman Carousel has been housed in the Cook Carousel Pavilion overlooking the Grand River, as an iconic piece of downtown Grand Rapids and a family favorite, welcoming hundreds of thousands of children for the last 25 years.

Almost 100 years old, the Spillman Carousel began going through a much needed renovation in 2017, which includes mechanical and electrical upgrades, installation of 1,200 LED light bulbs, band organ repairs, and restoration of 53 horses and menagerie and two chariots. The project includes several safety and accessibility upgrades including the creation of a wheelchair accessible chariot, integration of a ramp incline for access, bilingual signage and instructional recordings, as well as additional communication features for those who are blind or visually impaired or deaf or hard of hearing.

We need your help to finish this project! The GRPM is working towards reopening the Carousel for the community in fall of 2021. Join us today to help reopen the Spillman Carousel with a financial donation.

Give an individual gift by clicking Donate today!

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To make a greater impact, consider becoming a sponsor to gain special access to opening day, starting at $500. Reach out to Stephanie Szymas at sszymas@grpm.org with any questions.

Special thanks to the Peter C. & Emajean Cook Foundation made their considerable investment in 1994 to provide this one-of-a-kind experience for the community by building the Cook Carousel Pavilion to house this working artifact. In 2017, thanks to the Peter C. & Emajean Cook Foundation, the GRPM was awarded a grant to help restore the 1928 Spillman Carousel, an investment ensuring future generations a classic amusement experience, while preserving a rare artifact in the process.

GRPM's 1928 Spillman Carousel Renovation Project.

By The Grand Rapids Public Museum Foundation

GRPM's 1928 Spillman Carousel Renovation Project.

Allow us to offer the timeless Carousel experience to visitors of all ages for years to come!