There’s something timeless about a carousel—the music, the motion, the simple joy of the ride. At the Greenway Carousel at The Tiffany & Co. Foundation Grove on the Rose Kennedy Greenway, that feeling is paired with something just as meaningful: a commitment to making sure everyone can be part of the experience.
Located in the heart of downtown Boston, the Greenway Carousel is truly one of a kind. Its hand-carved characters—drawn from the imaginations of local students and inspired by the air, sea, and land animals of Boston Harbor—invite riders to soar, glide, and explore. But what makes this carousel especially unique is not just what you ride—it’s how thoughtfully it’s designed for who gets to ride.
From the very beginning, accessibility has been central to the Carousel’s design. In partnership with the Institute for Human Centered Design, the Greenway Carousel was built using universal design principles—going beyond traditional accessibility measures to create an experience that is welcoming, intuitive, and enjoyable for people with a wide range of physical, sensory, and cognitive abilities.
Thoughtful Features, Meaningful Experiences
Accessibility here isn’t an add-on—it’s part of every detail:
- Ramp access (conveniently stored beneath the carousel) for easy boarding
- A wheelchair-accessible harbor seal chariot with securements
- A clearly identifiable non-moving “stander” option for a steady ride
- Textured elements—like carved fur and feathers—for tactile, sensory-friendly exploration
- Adjustable lights and sound, available upon request, to better support riders with sensory sensitivities
- Bench-style seating for those who prefer or need additional support
For riders with sensory needs, small adjustments can make a big difference. The option to lower music or turn off twinkling lights helps create a calmer, more comfortable environment—transforming the ride into an experience that feels not just accessible, but truly welcoming too.
These features don’t just remove barriers—they open the door to shared experiences. Families can ride together. Caregivers can participate alongside loved ones. Children and adults alike can enjoy the same sense of wonder, side by side.
A Place Where Everyone Belongs
Public spaces shape how we connect with our city—and with each other. When those spaces are designed with care, they create opportunities for more people to feel included, valued, and at ease.
At the Greenway Carousel, accessibility means more than access. It means participation. It means dignity. It means joy.
Join Us This April
In recognition of Autism Acceptance Month, we’re proud to highlight the Greenway Carousel’s sensory-friendly features and the ways they support a more inclusive experience for all.
We invite individuals, families, and caregivers to visit, take a ride, and experience these thoughtful accommodations firsthand. Our team is always happy to make adjustments to lights and sound to help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Because everyone—young and young at heart alike—deserves the chance to feel the magic of the Carousel.