Yippee-yi-yo! Saddle-up for a ride on this main attraction and historic landmark featuring 20 hand painted horses. Tickets are only $1.00 per ride.
2024 Hours of Operation:
May 25 – August 16
Open Daily
Noon – 7:00 pm
August 17 – September 29
Open Saturdays and Sundays
Noon – 6:00 pm
History of the Krape Park Carousel
The Krape Park Carousel has been community favorite and regional attraction since it opened on July 4, 1959. It was donated to the Freeport Park District by the late Robert F. Koenig, who served on the Freeport Park Board of Commissioners from 1942 to 1960.
In 1995, the Carousel was refurbished. This community project led by Freeport native, Gary R. Carr, included refurbishing, painting, and naming all 20 horses. Be sure to check the plate on the back of the saddle to see the name of the horse and the school art department that painted them. Other enhancements included new lighting; a music system; accessible ramp; colorful canopy; and a remodeled admissions booth.
Artwork in the top oval frames was also updated. The 12 paintings featuring portraits of local historical figures and landmarks that depict Freeport’s rich history. Painted portraits include Robert F. Koenig, Jane Addams, Chief Winneshiek, Tutty Baker, Dr. W.W. Krape, and General Smith D. Atkins. Landmark paintings include the old Stephenson County Courthouse, Brown’s Mill, a farm scene, Freeport High School, First Presbyterian Church and Krape Park waterfall.
In 2018, the Carousel was completely disassembled and refurbished again including the construction of a new plaza to support the structure for many years to come. This renovation kept the design and décor from the prior phase intact, but focused on enhancing safety, security and sustainability of this treasured asset.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or planning your family’s next reunion at Krape Park, be sure to include a ride on one of the painted ponies!