The Flying Pig, Graeter’s, Oktoberfest, the Cincinnati Zoo and Carol Ann’s Carousel— these are some things that put our beloved city on the map!
- Open 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM Thursday through Sunday (Summer Hours April 1st to August 31st)
- Open 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM Friday through Sunday (Winter Hours September 1st to March 31st)
The carousel is set up inside a giant glass structure in Smale Park, so you can enjoy a ride no matter the weather or temperature. (And for what it’s worth, there are restrooms inside the Carousel building, and they were very clean and family friendly!).
This old-fashioned attraction was designed, built and hand-painted by Carousel Works of Mansfield, Ohio, the world’s largest maker of wooden carousels. Carol Ann’s Carousel features 3 rows of 44 Cincinnati-inspired figures, including The ‘Spring in Ault Park’ ladybug, The Carew Tower Gorilla, and The Cincinnati Zoo Baby Elephant. In addition, local artist, Jonathan Queen painted Cincinnati scenes on the carousel, making this attraction a true celebration of Cincinnati.
One ride will cost you a $2 token, and kids under 42″ have to ride with a (free) adult. Purchase more tokens for a better deal like 6 rides for 10 tokens.
If you’re curious: the carousel is named for local philanthropist Carol Ann Haile, who, along with husband Ralph, had a passion and commitment for serving the Greater Cincinnati community. In May of 2013, The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr./U.S. Bank Foundation announced that the foundation was making a $5 million gift to fund the Carousel’s construction.
Come and take a ride on one of 44 whimsical Cincinnati-centric characters that make up Carol Ann’s Carousel. The carousel is an amazing work of art featuring original artwork by Jonathan Queen with panels depicting animal characters playing in one of the numerous Cincinnati parks. Additional panels celebrate the many historic landmarks of Cincinnati. The carousel is housed inside a glass building so it can operate year-round.
Carol Ann’s Carousel is located at Smale Riverfront Park, 120 E. Mehring Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202.