Ride an old-fashioned roundabout in downtown Mansfield

To a child, the only thrill greater than seeing an old-fashioned carousel is climbing aboard one of its shiny, majestic creatures. One of the best places for children of all ages to do just that in Ohio is in Mansfield, 45 minutes north of Columbus.

The city pays homage to the amusement-park ride in its Carrousel District, located in downtown Mansfield. The district features several blocks of unique shops and restaurants in beautifully restored Victorian buildings. At the heart of the area is the Richland Carrousel Park, where guests can ride an old-fashioned roundabout for 75 cents.

The indoor carrousel at Richland Carrousel Park

Children delight in selecting the wooden animal they ride. Each is frozen in motion, wearing a colorful costume and welcoming saddle. Once the circus-style music starts, the ride begins to spin, providing a satisfying tickle in your tummy. The whirl of the bystanders and the sight of your parents or friends waving accentuate the delight of the ride.

This ridable roundabout has 52 animal figures, each carved and painted in a 1900s style by Carousel Works in Mansfield. Among the menagerie are 30 horses, several bears and ostriches, a zebra and a goat. The company also restored the rounding boards, mirrors and mural frames, which depict past and present attractions in Mansfield. The park is housed in a heated pavilion and contains the carousel and a gift shop featuring unique carousel items and musical figurines.

The Richland Carrousel Park is located at 75 N. Main St., Mansfield.

Hours are Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (Labor Day through Dec. 31: 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Sunday.)

Admission: $.75 per five-minute ride.

For more information, call 419-522-4223 or visit www.richlandcarrousel.com.