Tri-Cities Local Reviews

At the Southridge Sports Complex in Kennewick, a gleaming carousel spins beneath twinkling lights, carrying riders of all ages on hand‑carved horses. This is the Gesa Carousel of Dreams, a meticulously restored 1910 Charles Carmel carousel with 44 horses, a WSU Cougar, a UW Husky and dragon chariots. Its journey to the Tri‑Cities is itself remarkable: after entertaining visitors at Silver Beach Amusement Park in Michigan for decades, the carousel was placed in storage and later purchased by Tri‑Cities residents in 2002. It finally found a permanent home in Kennewick after twelve years of fundraising and restoration efforts. Today, the carousel attracts approximately 170,000 visitors each year offering rides, party rentals and special events.

Reviews compiled from multiple sources highlight the carousel’s enduring appeal. On Wanderlog, visitors comment on the beautiful restoration and the nostalgic charm of riding an antique carousel. Many appreciate the friendly staff, with one reviewer praising the gentleman operating the carousel for being “so friendly, kind and [having] a wonderful spirit” and for going above and beyond to make each family’s experience magical. Another reviewer notes that their children and grandchildren “had a great time” riding the 44‑horse carousel and that staff are consistently friendly and helpful. Families enjoy the affordable pricing—$3 per ride or four rides for $10—and the playful ring‑catching game that offers a free ride if a brass ring is grabbed. Reviewers also appreciate the adjacent splash pad and playground, which allow children to cool off and play before or after their ride.

While a few reviews mention issues such as limited open hours or miscommunication regarding ride availability, the majority describe the carousel as a “lovely place to visit,” especially for families on a budget. Visitors remark on the party rooms, snack bar and special events that transform the carousel building into a versatile event venue. During the holidays, the carousel hosts festive rides on a carved reindeer named “Jingles” and displays local carver Mike Thornton’s creations, including a salmon figure and WSU Cougar. Reviewers frequently mention these unique touches as examples of the carousel’s dedication to community involvement and artistry.

The Gesa Carousel of Dreams operates on a schedule that balances maintenance with demand. Current hours are Fridays from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon – 5 p.m., with Mondays through Thursdays reserved for private bookings. Guests can purchase tokens on site and take advantage of package deals for multiple rides. The carousel’s website notes that proceeds support ongoing maintenance and restoration of the 109‑year‑old ride, ensuring that future generations can enjoy it. Reviewers comment on the satisfaction of supporting a local nonprofit project while creating family memories. For travelers unfamiliar with the Tri‑Cities, the carousel also serves as a gateway to the Southridge area, where visitors can explore sports fields, a farmers market and walking paths.

From a historical perspective, the Gesa Carousel of Dreams is more than an amusement ride; it is a piece of living art. Each horse was carved by master artisan Charles Carmel and adorned with jewels and intricate details. The restoration, led by volunteers and artisans, preserved these features while incorporating modern safety standards. Positive reviews frequently mention the carousel’s craftsmanship and the thrill of riding an antique that has delighted riders for over a century. In researching the attraction, it becomes clear that the carousel has come to symbolize community pride and collaboration in Kennewick. Visitors return not just for the ride itself but for the sense of wonder it inspires and the knowledge that their ticket supports preservation of a historic treasure.