Site icon Metro Voice News

Gage Park mini train and carousel open for Spring Break week

gage+park+mini-train

A sure sign of spring is the opening of Topeka’s Gage Park mini-train and carousel. The two classic attractions open March 6 and will be open daily through Spring Break week. They will then remain open on weekends through the remainder of the school year before resuming daily operation for the summer.

“The start of the train and carousel season is a signal that warm-weather fun has arrived,” said Riley Shafer, community events and amenities supervisor for Shawnee County Parks + Recreation. “People are always excited to get back outdoors and enjoy the rides.”

Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the last ride at 4:45 p.m. Admission is $2. COVID-19 safety precautions remain in place with social distancing in the waiting area, seating in every other row and the rides being disinfected between each run.

The train and carousel have been making memories for families for generations.Originally designed to last 20 years, the mini-train is entering its 54th year of following a one-mile course around Gage Park. The train carries around 100,000 passengers every year, while the engineer takes them through the park’s history.

The old-fashioned carousel is more than 100 years old. It was built in 1908 and houses a Wurlitzer style band organ.

READ: Grant awarded to the City of Topeka for bikeways and trail extensions

 

Gage Park is part of Shawnee County Parks + Recreation, which includes nearly 60 miles of trails, 2,625 acres of parks and 320 annual days of sporting activities. In addition, the department offers recreation programs, educational programs and golf. A combination of tax dollars, user fees and private donations enables Shawnee County Parks and Recreation to offer parks, sporting and aquatic facilities with state-of-the art features, and beautiful, nationally recognized gardens.

–Lee Hartman | Metro Voice

Go here to visit the Topeka Metro Voice Facebook page for local event notices, breaking news and local announcements. To help us spread the word, and to continue seeing our posts on your Facebook feed, “Like” the page and then like or share a story now and then, so that they will keep showing up in your feed.

Can You Help?

With events being postponed, and businesses & churches reducing services, the advertising that the Topeka Metro Voice relies on for support is drying up. For 15 years, Topeka Metro Voice has been a leader in community and faith-based news. We have historically relied on advertising to fund the mission of our publication and sharing the Good News, as well as supporting local small businesses and community events. We are now seeking partners who want to support our publication and our mission of faith-based journalism and supporting the community and local small businesses.

Do you like what you read here? Help us continue our mission by supporting the Topeka Metro Voice in print and online for as little as $5. Every contribution counts, big or small. We sincerely thank you for your continued support and encouragement in these critical times.

 

Exit mobile version