5 Things To Do Where to Play / Where to Shop Top 5 Things To Do Near The Breezeway Resort The Flying Horse Carousel Watch Hill, RI The Flying Horse Carousel at Watch Hill in Westerly, considered to be the oldest in America, has a history that is both fascinating and controversial. In 1879, a traveling carnival which could no longer continue on its way, was forced to abandon its merry-go-round in Watch Hill, one of the foremost summer vacation spots of the past century. The carousel was originally drawn from place to place by a horse, and legend has it that the horse was so faithful to the carousel that when he died his tail was cured and inset into the rump of one of the carousel horses as a permanent memorial. The carousel is unique in that its horses are not attached to the floor, but hang by chains suspended by overhead "sweeps". The faster the ride, the farther out the horses swing, hence the name "Flying Horse Carousel." Unlike most carousels, there is no wooden platform. The horses, smaller than most, "fly" out over a dirt floor. Their tails and manes are made of real horsehair, the saddles are genuine leather, and the horses possess their original agate eyes. Each horse is hand-carved from a single piece of wood. The Flying Horse Carousel progressed from its original means of propulsion …"horsepower" to water power and finally, to electricity. Riders are limited to children under 12 years of age. The Flying Horse Carousel is believed to be the oldest carousel in America. The date of construction of the Watch Hill carousel is uncertain, however it was probably manufactured by the Charles W. Dare Company of New York in 1876 and possibly as early as 1867. Bay Street, Watch Hill, RI Watch Hill Fire District 401-348-89322. Duckland and Water Tours Westerly, RI When you want to see the town and get your feet wet… Take a ride on a completely overhauled World War II amphibious landing vehicle. This 70 minute tour visits some historical sites in Westerly and then plunges into the Pawcatuck River. Young and old will love it. 1 Chamber Way, Westerly, RI www. ducklandwatertours.com 800-732-76363. Napatree Point Conservation Area Napatree Point, RI If you like long walks on the beach, a little history, and some fantastic bird watching, make sure you prepare a picnic, grab a blanket and camera and head off to Napatree Point. Napatree Point was once an extension of Watch Hill out into the ocean. Many houses and barracks were located along an old road that stretched out to the point. The hurricane of '38 knocked all of the houses into Watch Hill Harbor which by some is refered to as "the Kitchen" for many of the objects found under water. There is no trace of the old road but People have found many things buried in the dunes along Napatree Point. The fort is worth exploring at the point. There are numerous tunnels and stairs leading to lower levels. Ever changing plants seem to occasionally reveal new tunnels and doorways into the sands. The fort is not looked after by any groups but does appear on military documents of abandoned forts. Click here for photos of the fort. ca.ckwinfo.net/lis/mansfield. Napatree Point, RI Watch Hill Fire District 401-348-89324. Performing Arts in Downtown Westerly Westerly, RI No matter what time of year you visit, you are sure to find a unique and exciting venue to watch a live play, musical or movie in revitalized historic downtown Westerly. Surrounding a gorgeous park and amidst fantastic restaurants and art galleries you will find the latest independent films, an off Broadway play or even Shakespeare in the park. Come see what’s playing: www.granitetheatre.com 401-596-2341 www.revivalhouse.net 401-315-2770 www.colonialtheatrerict.org 401-596-7909 Bike around the Block Misquamicut, RI Block Island, RI Bring your bicycle from home or rent one nearby because we are in a perfect area for a relaxing bike ride. The streets are flat and the scenery is spectacular. Pedal through some exclusive seaside villages where the rich and famous call home (for the summer at least). Ride to the “overlook” at Weekapaug Village for a commanding view of the Westerly, Misquamicut and Watch Hill Beaches. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Hop the ferry to Block Island and ride around one of Rhode islands treasures. It’s like an Island that time has forgotten. You’ll be pleased you pedaled through this picturesque place preserved from the past.