Story originally appeared on Westgate Resorts.

Timeshare Adventures Travel Tips

Have a Fantastic Time Horseback Riding in Orlando at These 7 Beautiful Ranches

Orlando’s natural beauty and wildlife are unparalleled—from incredible parks and lakes to white sandy beaches and majestic forests, this area is a nature lover’s dream! And what better way to explore forest trails and pristine beaches than on horseback?

There are numerous ranches that offer horseback riding in Orlando, along with other equestrian activities designed for kids and adults! So, put on your riding boots and get ready to bond with the friendliest, most beautiful horses in the area.

7 Best Places for Orlando Horseback Riding

  1. Horseback Riding at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo

  2. Hidden Palms Ranch

  3. Lazy H Ranch

  4. AAA Equestrian

  5. DreamCatcher Horse Rescue

  6. Mustang Moon Equine Solutions

  7. Wagon Wheel Horse Farm

Whether a beginner or a seasoned equestrian, you’ll have a great time at any of these seven ranches and farms.

1 | Horseback Riding at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo |

Saddle up a beautiful horse and enjoy a 45-minute horseback ride along pristine, natural trails at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo! During the ride, you’ll be accompanied by experienced riders who will guide you on this scenic adventure.

Riders must be at least eight years old, and it’s recommended you wear long pants and a hat to ride comfortably. Plus, you’ll be able to take amazing photos as you’ll look like a real cowboy or cowgirl!

The resort also hosts the Saturday Night Rodeo, where you can stop by for extra fun. You may even spot your horse helping out at the event!

If you’re visiting Orlando with small kids, Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo offers pony rides inside the Petting Farm specially designed for the youngest adventurers.

WHERE: 3200 River Ranch Blvd, River Ranch, FL 33867 │WHO: 863-692-1321

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2 | Hidden Palms Ranch |

Located in the heart of Seminole County, Hidden Palms Ranch lets you escape into nature and reconnect with your outdoorsy side on horseback, regardless of your experience with horses.

You can opt for a private horseback ride that includes only you, your friends or family, and a guide. As you ride around the amazing Lake Jesup Conservation Area, through the stunning hammocks of ancient live oak, you may spot eagles, osprey, and hawks! The ride is suitable for up to five guests aged ten or up.

If your child is over five years old and a horse lover, sign them up for the Horse Experience. It is ideal for those who want to interact with horses and learn all about them. The ranch guide will teach your child how to groom, tack up, and properly ride a horse!

WHERE: 1410 Oakway, Sanford, FL 32773 │WHO: 407-620-7880

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3 | Lazy H Ranch |

Enjoy the most beautiful scenery of the Kissimmee area on horseback at Lazy H Ranch. While on the trail, you’ll ride through hundred-year-old mossy oak hammocks across open prairies and along the breathtaking shores of Lake Tohopekaliga! In the meantime, you’ll hear incredible tales of Florida’s cattlemen and cow town heritage.

If you’re in the area on a romantic getaway, Lazy H Ranch offers private sunset tours for a perfect date night! You and your significant other can go horseback riding for an hour and watch a gorgeous sunset on horseback. You can also take beautiful photos to capture this unique experience!

The ranch also offers photoshoots with its magnificent horses to make your engagement, wedding, or family photos stand out!

WHERE: 2120 Macy Island Rd, Kissimmee, FL 34744 │WHO: 407-414-3113

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4 | AAA Equestrian |

From horseback riding lessons and trail riding to horse leasing and boarding, AAA Equestrian offers various activities and services for all ages and experience levels! You’ll love its stables, outdoor arena, stunning trails, and majestic horses of different breeds.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider looking to improve your skills, you can take a horseback riding lesson with a team of professionals. They will help you improve your technique and have fun in the process!

Trail rides at AAA Equestrian are suitable for riders of all skill levels and ages. Their friendly staff will pick a horse that best suits you and take you on a walk through beautiful woods where you may spot foxes and deer!

WHERE: 1800 Gregory Rd, Orlando, FL 32825 │WHO: 321-229-9857

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5 | DreamCatcher Horse Rescue |

If you’re on the lookout for the perfect family activity outside of the city, DreamCatcher Horse Rescue offers horseback and pony riding, so you and your kids can have fun in nature!

The ranch offers horseback riding on a 40-minute scenic trail for anyone older than six. On this guided walking tour, you’ll follow a wooded trail, walk by a crystal-clear lake, and take in the stunning views of a local winery. You may have a chance to see amazing animals like eagles, herons, and tortoises.

For a one-of-a-kind trail riding experience, opt for the water ride—it’s a unique experience that includes riding a horse through the lake! The trail goes through deep water, so prepare to get wet!

The ranch also offers you a chance to spend additional hands-on time with the horses, feed them, and learn the basics of grooming with an instructor.

WHERE: 10639 Toad Rd, Clermont, FL 34715 │WHO: 407-702-8332

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6 | Mustang Moon Equine Solutions |

The horseback riding lessons and trails at Mustang Moon Equine Solutions are amazing options for a fun-filled family day near Orlando. The host is super friendly, adores the horses, and is fantastic at teaching even absolute beginners how to ride a horse properly!

The ranch organizes a peaceful guided horseback ride through the woods. You will have plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and immersing yourself in the sounds of nature.

The horses are well-trained, and the host will pick the perfect one for you based on your skill level. With the host’s clear instructions, you’ll have an easy time learning the basics of horseback riding, so you can relax and enjoy the ride to the fullest. Plus, you’ll have a chance to meet all the horses before your ride and give them treats!

WHERE: 16335 SW 19 St, Ocala, FL 34481 │WHO: 352-620-5311

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7 | Wagon Wheel Horse Farm |

Located around 100 miles from Orlando, Wagon Wheel Horse Farm is one of the top locations for horseback riding near Orlando. It offers a chance to explore Florida’s untamed nature from a new perspective!

The ranch allows groups of up to five people to ride together, making this activity a great option for families and groups of friends. The horses are well-trained, calm, and quiet, so the ride is guaranteed to be relaxing and enjoyable.

The activity usually takes place on the 3,000-acre preserve, but if the preserve is closed, you may ride along the beautiful Lake Okeechobee. Either way, you’ll have a wonderful time exploring nature on horseback with a friendly, knowledgeable guide!

WHERE: 1255 NE 42nd Terrace, Okeechobee, FL 34972 │WHO: 863-634-6397