Posts with tag 'Family-Friendly Activities'

Touring Lake Erie's many lighthouses Erie is a great way to spend a weekend if you're interested in Ohio's history. These structures might be relatively far from major cities like Columbus and Cincinnati, but they offer an intimate look into the state's maritime history that you won't get anywhere else. Check out the following stops on your lighthouse tour to make sure you see all of the best towers around Lake Erie. 

Vermillion Lighthouse

480 Main Street, Vermilion, OH 44089

The Vermilion Lighthouse that currently sits on the city's Main Street Beach is a replica of the original lighthouse from the 1850s. The original was badly damaged by an ice storm in 1929 and could not be repaired, so it was replaced with a newer reconstruction. 

The lighthouse stands 16 feet tall on the edge of a scenic embankment near where the Vermilion River empties into Lake Erie. Visitors cannot tour the inside of the tower, but you can spend as much time on the grounds as you please. This area has been a popular spot for marriage proposals among the locals for decades!

Port Clinton Lighthouse

West State Route 163, Port Clinton, OH 43452

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The Port Clinton Lighthouse was built in 1896 and is actually the second lighthouse erected at this location. After serving for over 50 years, the tower was moved to private property in 1952 before eventually being restored and placed back on the city shoreline in 2014. 

The area around the Lighthouse tower is now known as Waterworks Park, a publicly accessible park with many amenities in addition to the tower. Both are maintained by the Port Clinton Lighthouse Conservancy, or PCLC. The group offers public tours of the tower at certain times of the year, but visitors are always allowed to tour the grounds and spend time around the tower's base.

Huron Lighthouse and Fishing Pier

End of North Main Street, Huron, OH 44839

The Huron Lighthouse and Fishing Pier is one of the newer lighthouses on Lake Erie, built less than 100 years ago in the 1930s. It is currently maintained by the US Coast Guard as a working lighthouse on Huron's coastline.

While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the pier that leads up to it is. It's a favorite local fishing spot and one of the best spots in Ohio for birdwatching, so you might want to reserve some extra time during your trip if you enjoy either of these activities.

Marblehead Lighthouse

110 Lighthouse Drive, Marblehead, OH 43440

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The Marblehead Lighthouse was built in 1822 and is still in use today, making it the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on Lake Erie. The land it sits on is now known as Marblehead Lighthouse State Park and holds picnic areas, a gift shop, and a replica lifesaving station in addition to the tower.

Visitors can tour the lighthouse in the summer months and enjoy its upper deck's incredible view. The building's tall white base and bright red roof and railings make it a striking sight with great photo opportunities all year round. 

Ashtabula Harbor Lighthouse

End of Ashtabula Harbor Break Wall, Ashtabula, OH 44004

The Ashtabula Harbor Lighthouse was built in 1905 when the Ashtabula River breakwater was first constructed. When it was finally automated in 1973, it was the last manned lighthouse on the Great Lakes. 

Today, the tower is cared for by the Ashtabula Lighthouse Restoration Society. This group runs the Ashtabula Marine Museum next door, which houses the lighthouse's old Fresnel lens and other equipment and memorabilia. Tours of the lighthouse are available as weather permits, and visitors are always welcome to walk around the grounds.

Cleveland Harbor West Pierhead Lighthouse

2800 Whiskey Island Drive, Cleveland, OH 44102

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The Cleveland Harbor West Pierhead Lighthouse is just one of several Northeast Ohio lighthouses that were once used to illuminate the port of Cleveland. Built in 1911 and in use up until 2021, this lighthouse is best known for its tendency to become coated with ice during the area's frequent winter ice storms. When this happens, the tower takes on a charming fairytale-like appearance, making it a favorite photo subject at that time of year.

The sturdy-looking stone tower and adjacent keeper's house sit at the end of a long pier that isn't accessible to the public, meaning that it can only be observed on boat tours or from the mainland. Even at a distance, however, its eye-catching shape and intriguing history make it well worth a visit.

South Bass Island Lighthouse

2368 Langram Road, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456

Completed in 1897 after several years of construction, the South Bass Island Lighthouse is noteworthy for a few reasons. It's only accessible by ferry, making a trip to see it into an adventure in its own right. Unlike most lighthouses, its 60-foot tower is attached to a two-and-a-half-story brick house where the lighthouse keeper and his family would live.

Today, the lighthouse is owned by Ohio State University, and its attached building is used for academic research. It's the only known lighthouse in the country to be owned by an academic institution, and its unique shape makes it a must-see for anyone interested in Lake Erie's many lighthouses.

Fairport Harbor Lighthouse

129 2nd Street, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077

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The Fairport Harbor Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouse towers in the area around Lake Erie. This 60-foot stone tower was in use from 1825 to 1925. After this, it was finally replaced by a new tower on the pierhead of the west breakwater. 

Now, the lighthouse is carefully maintained by the Fairport Harbor Historical Society, a local group dedicated to preserving this piece of the town's past. The former lighthouse keeper's house right next to the tower now holds the Fairport Harbor Marine Museum and its many artifacts. Be sure to stop by during your visit to the lighthouse to get a better appreciation of the building's historical context and purpose.

Light Up Your Life

Which of these lighthouses will you visit during your time around Lake Erie? 

Trains were once a primary mode of transportation in the United States. Although railroads now see less use, plenty are still around. There are a lot of places in Ohio where you can take a train ride, see some beautiful scenery, and in some cases, learn a little more about railroads and trains in the process. Here are some of the top Ohio train rides worth taking.

Zanesville & Western Scenic Railroad

5700 OH-204, Mt Perry, OH 43760

This train follows a historic rail line called the Glass Rock Spur. The company is run by volunteers who make the experience fun and lighthearted. The train cars are historical, and that's part of the thrill. Many of the rides are themed for the seasons. 

The Zanesville & Western Scenic Railroad is a great place to visit with kids. The ride isn't too long, and tickets are affordable at $9 per adult and $5 per child.

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

7900 Old Rockside Rd., Independence, OH 44131

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If you happen to be in Northeast Ohio, take a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. This train runs from Independence to Akron, passing through Cuyahoga National Park. It's a great way to see more of the park's scenery and wildlife. There are several routes of varying lengths to choose from.

The trains on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad have a cafe car. Check out the ride schedule on the railroad's website, and buy your tickets in advance. Prices start at just $11 for some of the shorter routes. You can also buy an all-day pass, which allows you to board and deboard as you please.

J&L Narrow Gauge Railroad

2261 Hubbard Rd., Youngstown, OH 44505

J&L Narrow Gauge Railroad is a great place to learn about steel mills and their role in the railroad industry. The company maintains a 24" demonstration railroad where you can ride a heavy, steel locomotive. You can also see an original, full-scale steel locomotive by Jones & Laughlin Steel.

This train offers rides on the second and fourth weekends of every month through October. Trains depart every 30 minutes between 10 am and 2 pm, and the rides last about 15 minutes. Tickets are $8 per person.

Dennison Railroad Depot Museum

400 Center St., Dennison, OH 44621

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The Dennison Railroad Depot Museum is a great place to learn about the use of railroads during WWII. The railroad was used to transport servicemen heading off to war. The Depot has been converted into a museum where you can see displays and films related to railroad history. You can also take a ride on the historic train.

During the holiday season, the train at the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum is converted into the Polar Express. This is a perfect opportunity for families with children to enjoy a festive ride. 

Carillon Park Rail & Steam Society

Carillon Boulevard, Dayton, OH 45439

The Carillon Park Rail & Steam Society maintains a passenger train that travels on a small, 1/8-scale track. The train only operates on certain days; a ride schedule is available on their website. A $1 donation is suggested for each passenger, and additional donations are encouraged. All proceeds go towards track maintenance, fuel, and other expenses.

If you really enjoy your ride on the Carillon Park Railway, consider becoming a member of their society. Members help design and maintain the on-site tracks and get additional riding privileges.

Ohio Railway Museum

990 Proprietors Rd., Worthington, OH 43085

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Ohio Railway Museum is the perfect place to learn about the history of trains and streetcars, especially as used around Columbus, Ohio. An on-site train runs every Sunday at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 pm. 

Rides are just $9 for adults and $7 for kids. This price also grants you admission into the museum and outdoor grounds. Plus, you can visit the gift shop for a souvenir.

Lorain & West Virginia Railway

46789 OH-18, Wellington, OH 44090

The Lorain & West Virginia Railway was built in 1906 and remained active until the 1970s. It is now maintained as a passenger train where you can enjoy different themed rides throughout the year. In October, there's a Fall Foliage ride, and in November and December, it becomes the Santa Train.

Learn more about these seasonal rides on the railroad's website. Tickets typically go on sale 60 days before an event.

Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad

16 E. South St., Lebanon, OH 45036

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The Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad travels through Warren County, just outside Cincinnati. You can catch the train in Lebanon and ride for about 9 miles round-trip. You'll pass through Turtle Creek, Union Township, and Mason or Monroe along the way. Five railroad bridges are crossed on this ride, the longest of which stretches over Turtle Creek.

The trains on the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad all feature coaches built in the 1930s with bench-style seats and open windows. All train cars are heated, and some have air conditioning. You can buy tickets for the train in person at the railway ticket office.

Northeastern Ohio Live Steamers

Lester Road, Medina, OH 44256

Northeastern Ohio Live Steamers is a steam train club that offers public rides on certain dates. A few rides are coming up on September 17, October 14, and October 15, 20220. Rides are free, but donations are encouraged.

Some rides on the Northeast Ohio Live Steamers train are themed. For example, the October rides are Halloween-themed, and guests are encouraged to wear costumes. All ages are welcome.

Hitch a Ride

Which one of these train rides will you embark on this year? Don't forget to blow the whistle as you roll by!

Fall is one of the most exciting times of year for festivals in Ohio communities, with celebrations of food, drink, music, history, and so much more on the schedule. Whether you visit an event like Cleveland Oktoberfest in Northeast Ohio, the Mohican Bluegrass Festival near Columbus, or the Ohio Renaissance Festival around the corner from Cincinnati, you're sure to find a place to make memories this fall. You can find information on those festivals and many more in our guide to Ohio fall festivals for 2022.

Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market Fall Arts & Crafts Festival

1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632

The fun begins at Hartville Marketplace for the 17th Annual Fall Arts & Crafts Festival, which takes place on September 24 from 9 am to 4 pm. This family-friendly festival is filled with art, crafts, great food, live entertainment, and fun activities for all ages. Spend your day uncovering unique finds from more than 200 crafts vendors, enjoy various seasonal activities, or watch the kids have a great time playing on outdoor inflatables. Start your holiday shopping early with crafty gifts, or find the perfect piece to decorate your home.

Cleveland Oktoberfest 2022

19201 E. Bagley Rd., Berea, OH 44130

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The highly anticipated annual Cleveland Oktoberfest will occur at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds and Event Center from September 2-5, 2022. It's one of the best ways to enjoy Labor Day weekend in the city, with everything from wiener dog races to strongman competitions. Of course, there will be plenty of great beer, traditional German cuisine, and fantastic live music to enjoy all weekend long. Discover the latest beers from the best microbreweries in the Cleveland area, then cast your vote to help crown a Cleveland Oktoberfest champion.

Apple Butter & Cider Weekend

8800 Euclid Chardon Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094

Fall is a great time to celebrate the harvest of the season, so it would be hard to pick a better time for the Apple Butter & Cider Weekend at Lake Metroparks Farmpark in Kirtland. This event takes place on October 1-2, 2022, from 9 AM through 5 PM. Learn all about how apple butter and apple cider are produced, watch traditional harvest activities, then sample the delicious dishes that result from the process. There will also be a variety of seasonal activities, highlighted by the three-acre Johnny Appleseed Trail corn maze.

2022 Ohio Pawpaw Festival

5900 US-50, Albany, OH 45710

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The 24th Annual Ohio Pawpaw Festival is a celebration of the pawpaw, North America's largest native tree fruit, taking place on September 16-18, 2022, around Lake Snowden. You will have the opportunity to sample meals that highlight the great flavor of the pawpaw, peruse pawpaw-related works of art, and enjoy tons of family-friendly activities while you explore. Enjoy live music from some of Ohio's best bands all weekend long, and be sure to check out the Kids Central area, which features plenty of fun, hands-on activities for younger visitors. Interested in the agricultural side of pawpaws? This festival also features educational panels on growing, cooking, medicinal use, sustainability, and even the genetics of the pawpaw.

Mohican Bluegrass Festival

22462 Wally Rd., Glenmont, OH 44628

Head to the scenic Mohican Wilderness campground for a weekend of live music and fun activities for the whole family September 15-17. The 31st Annual Mohican Bluegrass Festival features three days of live music spread across multiple stages, tons of great food from local vendors, and fun crafts from local artisans. Reserve a campsite in advance, and turn the festival into a weekend-long family vacation.

Ohio Sauerkraut Festival

Historic Main Street, Waynesville, OH 45068

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The annual Ohio Sauerkraut Festival is always one of the biggest events of the year in Waynesville, and this year's event will be no exception. The festival takes place on October 8-9, 2022, with booths, vendors, food, drink, and activities all along Historic Main Street in Waynesville. You can try sauerkraut prepared in nearly every way imaginable, including the famous sauerkraut pizza, which tastes much better than it sounds. In addition to providing fun activities for the community, this event serves as a major fundraiser for local non-profit organizations. It even raises money for scholarships given to local graduating high school seniors.

Ohio Renaissance Festival

10542 OH-73, Waynesville, OH 45068

Take thyself back to another era when you visit the Ohio Renaissance Festival, which will be open every weekend from September 3 through October 30, 2022. Experience a real-life recreation of a renaissance-era, 16th-century village filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors you've read about in the history books. The village will be filled with unique shops, live shows, fun activities for kids, delicious food, and games for all ages. There will be themed weekends throughout the event, like Fantasy Weekend, Pirates Weekend, Romance Weekend, and Tricks or Treats Weekend, so check the schedule to find the perfect weekend to visit the Ohio Renaissance Festival.

Cincinnati Coffee Festival

1241 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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Coffee lovers from around Ohio and beyond will meet up for the annual Cincinnati Coffee Festival on October 22-23, 2022. It's the largest coffee festival in the Midwest, with roasters, coffee shops, bakers, and chocolatiers coming together to create a weekend that your taste buds definitely won't want to miss. The event features delicious samples, live entertainment, coffee art, demos related to all things coffee, fun competitions, and plenty of surprises along the way. And this festival isn't just about coffee! Tea and chocolate lovers will also find plenty to enjoy at the Cincinnati Coffee Festival.

Fun Fall Festivities

No matter which corner of Ohio you call home, there are fun festivals to be enjoyed all year long. So, which festival will you fall in love with this year?

Burying your nose in a good book is a great way to leave your worries behind for a few hours. People who read typically have more active imaginations. Plus, reading can help ease stress and depression, prevent cognitive decline, and build your vocabulary. Whether you love mystery novels, non-fiction, or something in-between, Northeast Ohio has several local bookstores worth visiting. Head to one of these book shops to find your next read.

Loganberry Books

10515 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44120

Located in the historic Larchmere neighborhood, this Cleveland bookstore first opened in 1994 and has kept readers happy ever since. They have more than 100,000 different titles in stock, including many on women's history and literature. Loganberry Books carries both new and used titles, including some leatherbound books and first editions. If you're not only a reader but a book collector, this is the place to go.

Loganberry books is open daily. Shoppers can join their Perks Program for free and earn a $10 coupon for every $100 spent. Perks Program members also get a bonus coupon on birthdays and extra store credit when they sell books.

Half-Price Books

1607 Golden Gate Plaza, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124

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Half-Price Books is a family-owned bookstore that sells secondhand books and other media. You can take them your already-read books to sell and go home with new titles to enjoy. The store has a good selection of books on philosophy, martial arts, and animals. The wide aisles and friendly atmosphere make it a great place to shop with kids.

Half-Price Books is open daily. They offer online ordering and curbside pickup, which are great if you're in a rush.

Fireside Book Shop

29 N. Franklin St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44022

Fireside Book Shop has been serving Northeast Ohio since 1963. The store has an old-fashioned appeal but in the best way. They not only have a great selection of books, but also countless puzzles, greeting cards, and board games. The helpful staff members can help you find the perfect book, whether you're shopping for yourself or a loved one.

Fireside Book Shop is a woman-owned business and is open daily. Their Trade-In Program is a customer favorite, allowing shoppers to trade in their used books for store credit. Stop by regularly, and you'll always have something new to read.

The Learned Owl Book Shop

204 N. Main St., Hudson, OH 44236

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The Learned Owl Book Shop has been open on Main Street since 1968. Although the shop is small, its selection of books is incredible. The owner knows everything on the shelves and is very helpful. They also have a children's nook and a selection of adult coloring books.

This bookstore is open daily and is within walking distance of many great cafes and restaurants. You could spend an afternoon picking out a book, walking around the neighborhood, then treating yourself to a nice meal.

Horizontal Books

1921 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113

If you find yourself in Cleveland, stop by Horizontal Books and browse their shelves. This shop sells overstock books. If you purchase one, you save 50% off the standard retail price. Purchase more than one, and you save even more. Horizontal Books brings in new titles every day, so there's always something else to discover.

Horizontal Books is open daily from 10 am - 6 pm. They're in the process of opening up their own coffee shop, too.

Mac's Backs-Books On Coventry

1820 Coventry Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118

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Mac's Backs-Books on Coventry is a one of the largest bookstores in Ohio. They have three stories of books and community rooms where they host educational events. This shop has a great sci-fi collection and lots of young adult fiction. The entire basement is full of non-fiction titles.

Mack's Backs is walking distance from Case Western Reserve University and is therefore popular with college students. Keep an eye on their website for events such as book signings, writing workshops, and live readings.

Novelty Shop Used & Rare Books

14948 Chillicothe Rd., Novelty, OH 44072

If you're looking for a specific rare or antique book, Novelty Shop is the place to go. This boutique book store sells used, rare, and antique books, along with a small selection of other antique items. You'll find original hardcovers of classics, leatherbound books, and first editions galore.

Novelty Shop has been open since 1999 and is frequented by many of Ohio's book collectors. You're bound to learn something just by stopping in and taking a look around. 

Visible Voice Books

2258 Professor Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113

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Visible Voice Books wants to make reading cool again. This independent bookstore has a very relaxed, inviting atmosphere and stocks titles in almost every genre. But they also have so much more than books. There's a bar and coffee shop where you can grab your favorite drink to sip while you read. Selections include craft beers from Fat Head and Left Hand Brewing. They even host wine tasting events.

Inside Visible Voice Books, there is also a neighborhood pizza shop called Crust. So, you can enjoy lunch, find a new book, and buy a bottle of wine—all under one roof. The shop is open Tuesday-Sunday.

Get Lost in a Book

Where will you discover your new favorite novel? Let us know which one of these bookstores feels most like home.

While modern carousels are a beloved amusement ride, they have their roots in a combat preparation exercise from the Middle Ages. Knights attempted to spear small rings hanging overhead as they galloped in a circle. Commoners eventually adapted the game with the beginnings of our current form.

Did you know that the first carousel in the United States was built in the 1840s by Franz Wiesenhoffer in Hessville, OH? Our state is still recognized as the home of many incredible carousels, including those in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870

Everyone knows that carousels are a traditional part of any respectable fair, carnival, and amusement park. Not surprisingly, Cedar Point takes their carousel game to a whole new level, with three carousels that make frequent appearances on top-10 lists. The Kiddy Kingdom Carousel, dating back to 1925 and features 52 animals, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Next is the Midway Carousel, built in 1912 and operating at Cedar Point since 1946, making it the park's oldest ride. Finally, challenge family and friends to a spin on the Cedar Downs Racing Derby, one of only two racing carousels in the United States. Visit the website for hours and ticket pricing.

Richland Carrousel Park

75 N. Main St., Mansfield, OH 44902

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In honor of the ride's European origins, Richland Carrousel Park uses the French spelling of the word in its name. This delightful park features the first new hand-carved carousel constructed in the United States since the 1930s, built at nearby Carousel Works. Scenery panels on the carousel depict Malabar Farm, Richland County Courthouse, and other iconic locations and notable figures from the local area. Carousel rides are $1, with discounts for purchases of 6 or 50 rides. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.

Akron Zoo

505 Euclid Ave., Akron, OH 44307

Environmental education and awareness provide the theme for the Conservation Carousel at the Akron Zoo. The hand-carved figurines are likenesses of 33 animals from around the world, ranging from a ladybug and a penguin to a Komodo dragon, a peacock chariot that's wheelchair accessible, and a baby moose that contains a time capsule from 2010. Sustainable wood, repurposed concrete, and other green initiatives were incorporated in the construction of the carousel. Rides are $2 per person. Zoo admission is $14 for adults and $11 for ages 2-14. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily through October 31. Visit the website for seasonal hours.

Columbus Commons

160 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

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In 2011, the historic City Center grounds were transformed into Columbus Commons, a 6-acre park in the midst of the beautiful downtown area. The centerpiece attraction is a hand-carved carousel with 18 charming figurines, including the OSU Buckeye horse, a frog prince, and a clown fish. Ohio Stadium and Franklin Park Conservatory are two of the hand-painted scenes decorating the canopy. Carousel rides are also a popular draw for Commons for Kids, held each Friday through August 12 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Rides are free at all times. Park hours are 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220

Carousels are generally thought of as rides for youngsters. That's not the case at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, where their Conservation Carousel is one of the more popular attractions during adults-only events such as Toast of the Wild. Of course, the carousel is a big hit with kids as well. Zoo members often upgrade their memberships at the prompting of their children, who like the unlimited carousel rides that are included. Standard pricing for rides is $3. Mark your calendar for 2023, when the zoo's new carousel will be installed. At twice the size of the current carousel, this version will feature 65 animals in a vintage open-air gazebo perched alongside Swan Lake. Admission ranges from $9.50-$25. The zoo is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. through October 31. Visit the website for seasonal hours.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

4850 Powell Rd., Powell, OH 43065

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After viewing real birds and wildlife in person, check out colorful recreations on the Grand Carousel at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. The historic 1914 Mangels-Illions carousel revolves to the sounds of a fully restored band organ that plays periodically throughout the day. Rides are $2 per person. If you want the real experience, enjoy a camel ride for $7 or a pony ride for $5. Zoo admission is $16.99 for adults and $11.99 for ages 3-9. Prices are higher for non-Franklin County residents. The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. through August. Visit the website for seasonal hours.

Toledo Zoo & Aquarium

2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH 43609

Travel to the continent of Africa on the carousel at the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium. The sole African carousel in the world lets you ride atop 42 exotic animals, such as giraffes, zebras, and gorillas. Artwork on the canopy showcases many of the featured animals in their native habitats. Rides are $3 per person, with passes available for multiple rides at discounted rates. Zoo admission is $24 for adults and $21 for ages 2-11, with an additional $2 charge for non-Lucas County residents. Visit the website for hours.

Merry-Go-Round Museum

301 Jackson St., Sandusky, OH 44870

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Inspiration for the Merry-Go-Round Museum came from a series of carousel stamps issued by the U.S. Postal Service in 1988. Appropriately, the museum is housed in a former Sandusky Post Office building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to watching activities in the restoration shop, visitors can ride the museum's vintage 1939 Allan Herschell carousel as the band organ plays the classic "oom-pa-pa" sounds. The original figurines were unavailable, so the carousel is populated with pieces from the museum's collection or on loan from private collectors. Admission, including one ride token, is $6 for adults and $4 for ages 4-14. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon - 4 p.m. Sunday through Labor Day.

Round and Round

When it comes to your preferred carousel mount, do you go old-school with the horses, or do you make a dash for one of the other animals?