The Gesa Carousel of Dreams: A Whimsical Ride for All Ages in Kennewick  A Treasure in the Heart of the Tri-Cities There's a place in Kennewick where time seems to slow down, where the air is filled with the sweet sound of music and the laughter of children. It's a place where memories are made, and where the simple joy of a carousel ride can transport you to a world of wonder. This magical place is the Gesa Carousel of Dreams, a true gem in the heart of the Tri-Cities that has captured the imagination of families and visitors for years. Many people say that the Gesa Carousel of Dreams is more than just an amusement ride; it's a work of art. And they're right. This isn't your average carousel you'd find at a county fair or shopping mall. It's a meticulously restored 1910 Charles Carmel carousel, a masterpiece of craftsmanship from a bygone era when artisans poured their hearts and souls into every detail. With 44 hand-carved horses, a WSU Cougar, a UW Husky, and even dragon chariots, every ride is a new adventure waiting to unfold. The attention to detail is simply breathtaking, from the jeweled adornments to the intricate carvings that bring each figure to life. Customers rave about the beautiful restoration, and it's no wonder. This carousel is a testament to the love and dedication of the community that brought this treasure to Kennewick. A Journey of a Lifetime The story of the Gesa Carousel of Dreams is as enchanting as the carousel itself. For decades, it brought joy to visitors at Silver Beach Amusement Park in Michigan, spinning beneath the summer sun and creating countless memories for families. But when the park closed its doors, the carousel was dismantled and placed in storage, its future uncertain. It could have been the end of the story, a sad conclusion to a beautiful chapter. But a group of passionate Tri-Cities residents had a different idea. They saw potential where others saw only old machinery. They saw magic where others saw only wood and paint. In 2002, these visionaries purchased the carousel and embarked on what would become a twelve-year journey of fundraising and restoration. It was a labor of love that tested their patience and determination, but they never gave up. Volunteers worked tirelessly, artisans carefully restored each horse to its former glory, and the community rallied together to raise the funds needed to bring this dream to life. It's a powerful testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision. When the carousel finally found its permanent home in Kennewick, it was more than just the opening of an attraction; it was the fulfillment of a dream that had been years in the making. A Beloved Landmark That Brings Families Together Today, the Gesa Carousel of Dreams is a beloved landmark, attracting around 170,000 visitors each year. That's not just a number; it's 170,000 smiles, 170,000 moments of joy, and countless memories that will last a lifetime. It's a place where families come to celebrate birthdays, where couples have their first dates, and where grandparents bring their grandchildren to share in the magic they remember from their own childhood. People of all ages can experience the simple pleasure of a carousel ride, and in our fast-paced, digital world, that kind of timeless joy is more precious than ever. The carousel operates on a schedule designed to accommodate both families and special events. You can catch a ride on Fridays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. And here's the best part: it's incredibly affordable. At just $3 per ride or four rides for $10, it's an experience that won't break the bank. In a world where entertainment can cost a small fortune, the Gesa Carousel of Dreams offers families a budget-friendly way to create priceless memories together. More Than Just a Ride While the carousel is undoubtedly the star of the show, the Gesa Carousel of Dreams offers so much more than just a spin on a wooden horse. Customers rave about the friendly staff, who go above and beyond to make every visit special. Many people say that the gentleman operating the carousel has a wonderful spirit and a genuine knack for making each family's experience magical. He's not just pushing buttons and collecting tickets; he's creating moments of joy, ensuring that every child feels special, and making sure that every family leaves with a smile on their face. It's this personal touch that sets the Gesa Carousel of Dreams apart from other attractions and keeps people coming back for more. And let's not forget the fun and games! The playful ring-catching game is a huge hit with visitors of all ages. As the carousel spins, riders reach out to grab the brass ring, and if you're lucky enough to snag one, you'll win a free ride! It's a simple thing, but it adds an extra layer of excitement to the experience. Kids love the challenge, and adults love the nostalgia of a game that harkens back to a simpler time. It's these little touches that make the Gesa Carousel of Dreams feel like a step back in time to an era when entertainment was about connection, not just consumption. A Perfect Day Out for the Whole Family The location of the Gesa Carousel of Dreams at the Southridge Sports Complex makes it an ideal destination for a full day of family fun. After your carousel ride, the kids can cool off at the adjacent splash pad, a welcome treat during those hot Tri-Cities summers. The playground is another big draw, giving children a chance to burn off some energy before or after their ride. Many families make a whole afternoon of it, packing a picnic lunch and enjoying the beautiful outdoor space. The area also features sports fields, walking paths, and even a farmers market during the season, so there's always something to see and do. For those looking to explore the broader Southridge area, you'll find plenty of options. The neighborhood is home to shops, restaurants, and other attractions that make it easy to turn a carousel visit into a full day out. It's become a destination in its own right, drawing visitors from across the Tri-Cities and beyond. And for travelers who are unfamiliar with the area, the carousel serves as a perfect introduction to the warmth and community spirit that defines Kennewick. A Place for Every Occasion The Gesa Carousel of Dreams is more than just a weekend destination. It's a versatile event venue that can be transformed to fit any occasion. The party rooms are a popular choice for birthdays and other celebrations, offering a unique and memorable setting that kids absolutely love. Imagine the joy on your child's face when they realize their birthday party is at a real carousel! The snack bar is always a hit with the little ones, offering treats and refreshments that add to the festive atmosphere. During the holidays, the carousel truly comes alive with festive magic. The building is decked out in decorations, and you can even take a ride on Jingles, the specially carved reindeer. It's a magical experience that will get you in the holiday spirit and create memories that your family will treasure for years to come. Many people say that visiting the carousel during the holidays has become an annual tradition for their families, right up there with decorating the tree and baking cookies. Celebrating Local Artistry and Community Pride The Gesa Carousel of Dreams is also a showcase for local talent and artistry. It's home to the beautiful creations of local carver Mike Thornton, including a stunning salmon figure that pays tribute to the region's rich fishing heritage and a WSU Cougar that shows pride in the local university. These unique touches are more than just decorations; they're a testament to the carousel's commitment to community involvement and celebrating the culture and spirit of the Tri-Cities. Every detail, from the hand-carved figures to the twinkling lights, tells a story of craftsmanship, dedication, and community pride. The carousel also serves as an educational resource, teaching visitors about the history of carousel art and the importance of preservation. Informational displays share the story of Charles Carmel, the master artisan who created these beautiful horses over a century ago, and explain the painstaking restoration process that brought them back to life. It's a living museum, a place where you can not only have fun but also learn about and appreciate the artistry of a bygone era. A Community Treasure Worth Supporting When you ride the Gesa Carousel of Dreams, you're not just having fun; you're supporting a local nonprofit project that's dedicated to preserving this piece of history. The proceeds from every ride go towards the ongoing maintenance and restoration of this 109-year-old treasure, ensuring that it will continue to bring joy to future generations. It's a wonderful feeling to know that you're a part of something so special, that you're helping to preserve a piece of history for your children, your grandchildren, and beyond. The carousel requires constant care and attention. The wooden horses need to be maintained, the mechanical systems need to be serviced, and the building needs to be kept in good repair. It's a labor of love that requires both financial resources and dedicated volunteers. By purchasing a ride or making a donation, you're ensuring that this treasure will continue to spin for many years to come. Many people say that knowing their ticket supports such an important cause makes the experience even more meaningful. Why the Gesa Carousel of Dreams Matters In our modern world of smartphones, video games, and virtual reality, the Gesa Carousel of Dreams offers something increasingly rare: a simple, authentic experience that brings people together. There are no screens, no apps, no digital distractions. Just the gentle motion of the carousel, the cheerful music, and the joy of being present in the moment with the people you love. It's a reminder of what truly matters in life, and it's a gift that the Tri-Cities community has given to itself and to future generations. The Gesa Carousel of Dreams is a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision. It's a place of joy, wonder, and nostalgia, a place where memories are made and dreams come true. Whether you're a lifelong resident of the Tri-Cities or a first-time visitor, a trip to the Gesa Carousel of Dreams is an experience you won't soon forget. So come on down, take a ride, and let the magic of the carousel transport you to a world of pure imagination. Your inner child is waiting, and the Gesa Carousel of Dreams is ready to make your day a little more magical.