A park that includes a hand-restored carousel and a miniature train ride? Yes, please! Shelby City Park has long been a fun destination for kids of all ages. Although discerning the opening hours can be tricky--check the seasonal schedule ahead of time--$.50 rides on the beautiful carousel and miniature train are a huge (and affordable) thrill for little visitors. The carousel harkens from 1919 and is one of the last year-round carousels in a park location. And, the miniature train has been meticulously restored to its original 1952 glory--fully functional and ready for a fun ride!
The accompanying playground was once an afterthought for our family, but 2018 saw the opening of the brand new “All Aboard” playground. The new playground includes much more shade, a soft play surface, climbing and slides for kids of all ages, and or course, swings! The city included two adaptive swings and lots more accessibility for kids of all abilities. The more advanced climbing features offer great opportunities for those kid ninjas looking for a challenge. Few parks can keep all ages of kids busy, but Shelby has nailed it.
The playground is fenced in and circled by the train track, so playing kids can run along and wave to train passengers. It is, however, a bit of a haul up the ramp or stairs to get to the single restrooms in the train lobby. The pro is security and the ability to let your kids wander a bit. The con is throwing them on your back and hauling them to the bathroom (but what else is new?). The carousel building is just up the hill from the playground and houses larger restrooms, so take your bathroom break while you are up there.
The City of Shelby hosts fun seasonal celebrations at the park including an annual Easter egg hunt, Foothills Merry Go Round Festival and Halloween and Christmas events. Visit the Parks and Recreation Department website for more info to plan your trip. The City of Shelby Park is located at 850 W. Sumter Street Shelby, NC 28150 and is open dawn until 10pm. For more information, call 704-484-6811.
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