Waterfront park in Ontario has a vintage carousel you can ride for just 5 cents
Let's be real… finding anything that still costs a nickel these days is virtually impossible, right? Well, as it turns out, there's one waterfront park in Ontario that's still offering a sliver of fun for just five cents.
Located in St. Catharines, in the little waterfront community of Port Dalhousie, Lakeside Park Beach is home to a scenic beach and a beloved historic attraction: a beautifully restored carousel where every ride still costs five cents.
The carousel was first created in 1898 and features 68 hand-carved animals created by renowned carousel builder Charles I.D. Looff. More than a century after it first welcomed riders, the attraction continues to operate with the same five-cent fare that has become part of its charm.
Of course, the age-old ride undergoes regular maintenance, including the ride's horses, which, many don't know, feature real horse tails.
But there's more to Lakeside Park Beach than its iconic carousel.
The waterfront destination gives beachgoers plenty of reasons to spend an entire summer day by Lake Ontario, making it a great day trip for anyone looking to relax beyond their own backyard.
First things first: the sandy beach is a popular spot for swimming, while the shoreline offers stunning views across Lake Ontario toward the Port Dalhousie harbour and lighthouse.
The area also features picnic tables, walking paths, and volleyball courts, making it an ideal spot for anyone looking to enjoy time outdoors, no matter the activity. If you are planning to stay the day, you can even bring your own portable barbecue and enjoy a classic lakeside picnic.
Although you could easily spend the whole day there, there are notable attractions nearby if you want to explore more of St. Catharines. Popular spots like 13th Street Winery and the St. Catharines Museum & Welland Canals Centre are just a short drive away.
And if an overnight stay is on the cards, the Juniper Inn isn't a shabby option to check out; touted as one of the region's first boutique hotels, you can stay in playfully designed rooms in a historic building dating back to the 19th century.
So, whether you're visiting for the nostalgic carousel, a beach staycation, or a sunset stroll along the shore, this waterfront spot in Ontario is one of the few where five cents can still buy you a little bit of fun.
Here's hoping you still have nickels lying around the house!
Lakeside Park Beach is located at 1 Lakeport Rd., in St. Catharines, Ont.
Friends of the Lakeside Park Carousel
