Do you remember the absolute joy you felt as a kid when you got to ride the carousel at the county fair? It was far from the most thrilling ride, but getting to choose your very own animal to ride made up for the lack of speed. The whole family can have an awesome carousel experience at one of North Platte’s most beloved destinations, Cody Park.

If you grew up in the area, Cody Park probably holds some great childhood memories for you. It’s a center of activity in North Platte for residents and tourists alike; you can do everything here from swimming to sports to picnicking to walking around on classic trains.

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One of the most wonderfully nostalgic parts of the park is the restored vintage carousel built in 1913.

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North Platte natives and their families have wonderful memories of long summer days spent going around and around on this vintage ride.

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The horses and other animals are original to the carousel; they were all hand-carved and have retained their beauty throughout the years.

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Everyone’s got a favorite animal to ride on the carousel - which is yours?

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There’s a whole lot else to do while you’re at Cody Park. There are other rides for the smaller kids, and there’s a concession stand next to the carousel serving some of the best ice cream you’ll ever taste.

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Most parts of the park are open year round, but the rides and concessions are only open during the summer, from Memorial Day through the 1st of October.

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Cody Park is located at 1601 N Jeffers St, North Platte, NE 69101 (on North Hwy 83). Learn more about all that this delightful park has to offer right here.

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While you’re in North Platte, spend some time at the Golden Spike Tower and Bailey Yard – it’s a fascinating place even if aren’t a train enthusiast!

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