There’s a place in Ontario where time stood still and history remained untouched. St Catherine’s Lakeside Park is not only a peaceful escape with a sandy beach and picnic pavilion, but it’s also home to a handcrafted, 134-year-old carousel. And it still costs 5 cents to ride.
You’ll find this historic gem in Port Dalhousie’s Lakeside Park. It is a fun destination in the summer considering there’s a beach to enjoy, adventures along the Lake Ontario Waterfront Trail and the Port Dalhousie Harbour Walkway.
But since we’re here for a little bit of history, there’s lots to know about the Lakeside Park Carousel.
According to St Catherine’s official website, the historic carousel was hand carved from 1898 to 1905 by Charles I.D. Looff in Brooklyn, New York.
“Relocated in 1921, the carousel came to St. Catharines from its earlier home at an amusement park in Scarborough, now part of the City of Toronto. It was purchased for the amusement park flourishing in Port Dalhousie, which had 58 attractions,” shares the town’s site.
“In those days, more than a quarter million people annually crossed the lake in steamships to visit Port Dalhousie on weekends.”
Recent Posts:
There’s a forested trail in Ontario that leads to a cascading waterfall
This Ontario park is well-known for its shallow, sandy beach & clear waters
The carousel has 68 animals and four chariots. The music is played by an antique Frati band organ which uses a system of paper music rolls – talk about throwback.
“Each animal was hand carved, and the horses still have real horsehair tails,” shares the site.
“The carousel animals have all been carefully restored by the Friends of the Carousel, who continue with annual maintenance and repair work to keep the carousel in sound working order.”
This carousel is one of the 350 antique hand-carved carousels that are still operating in North America.
And since it’s still operating, the answer is yes, you can still ride it. It’s 5 cents a ride or admission by donation.
Make a trip down to St Catherine’s and go for a ride on the carousel from 11 AM to 8 PM every day until September 2nd.
You won’t regret it
Lakeside Park Carousel
Where: 1 Lakeport Rd, St. Catharines, ON
When: 11 AM to 8 PM daily until September 2nd.
Cost: 5 cents a ride
