Who didn’t at some point beg their parents for a pony growing up? While the idea of having a horse as a pet might’ve struck our fancy as kids, it’s safe to say they’re far more majestic than domestic and for many of us, a day at the stables is much more doable than taking on ownership. Your average horse is 16 hands tall (that’s roughly five foot, three inches), weighs between 900 and 2,000 pounds (depending on the breed), and gallops at speeds around 30 miles per hour (whoa, Nelly!). Horses are also incredibly gentle creatures, often used in animal therapy for those with anxiety, ADD, autism, and developmental disabilities. Whether you’re interested in the mental and physical health benefits of riding or simply the fun, here are some ranches, farms, and stables where you can get up close and personal with these beautiful broncos.
With plenty of green pastures and miles of riding trails, this farm is a rider’s dream. Find horse training and riding clinics, boarding, gorgeous horse barn, and even an AirBnB overlooking the property. Carolina
Skilled horsewoman Cindy Worden runs this full facility horse farm where she trains both horses and riders. Worden and her team of educated equestrians specialize in horsemanship, desensitization, behavioral issues, and lessons. Richmond
For owner Pam Maloof, this is more than just a horse farm. In addition to training, lessons, boarding, sales, special events, and summer camps, it’s also home to the FHF Foundation, a nonprofit supporting the community through equine assisted learning and psychotherapy. East Greenwich
Family comes first at this boarding and riding facility, which sits on 20 acres of pastoral property. Find boarding, training, and lessons for all ages and skill levels, whether you’re into showing or weekend trail riding. Exeter
Since 1992, this equestrian center has specialized in lessons for hunters, jumpers, and horsemanship for kids and adults alike, plus hosting shows and seasonal programs. Fun fact: The URI Equestrian Team trains here! Ashaway
When owner Donna Gardiner moved here from Maine, she was looking to recreate the magic of riding at her grandfather’s farm. Today, she runs this horse stable offering boarding, personalized riding lessons, and even birthday parties. Charlestown
If you’re in Block Island, chances are you’re there for the beaches – and this horse farm on the scenic west side of the island offers guided trail rides on both the beach and nature preserve, even at sunset. Block Island
Find consignment horses, training, board, shows, and lessons for riders beginning through advanced. Special kiddo programs include bareback riding, camp crafts with horseshoes, and pony painting! Charlestown
Founded in 1979 by Bonnie Smith, the South Kingstown stable offers lessons, coaching, shows, stall and pasture boarding, summer campus, horses for sale, pony parties, and more. Wakefield
This landmark property was established in 1957 and encompasses 118 acres, hosts special events like weddings and notable music performances, and, of course, boasts a full lesson program, clinics, camps, and boarding. West Greenwich
Known as a pretty “sweet” place to be, this family-friendly stable leads beginner through advanced riding lessons, competes in the local show circuit, offers boarding, and has a 4-H club to bring friends together. Richmond
Offering the full gamut of services: boarding, training, trail riding, lessons, and opportunities to show in a scenic setting off South County Trail. Richmond
Camp Bow Wow • 3 Keyes Way, West Warwick • 401-250-3595
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