Combine your love of travel with opportunities to visit equine-centric destinations. You can traverse gorgeous trails, meet impressive horses, stay at all-inclusive ranches, and watch exciting races. Explore cities and national parks across the United States on horseback or stand in the shadows of American equine legends. Think about the following places for your next trip within the United States, from the Pacific Shores to Mid-Atlantic pastures.
- Half Moon Bay, California
Visitors to California can sign up for scenic trail rides around the Half Moon Bay area. Consider guided horse trail rides with Sea Horse Ranch. Explore Poplar Beach and the Coastal Equestrian Trail. These routes will take your expedition group over sand, near bluffs, and through forests. Up the coast, create amazing memories on one of the ocean cruises from San Francisco ports.
- Pebble Beach, California
Pebble Beach is also within easy driving distance from San Francisco. Stay at Pebble Beach Resorts–established 1924– and enjoy rides at the Pebble Beach Equestrian Center. There are more than 27 miles of trails and beaches that accommodate horseback rides for the whole family. All levels of equestrian experience are welcome and visitors can enroll in specific programs to develop their interests.
- Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Wild horses can be found at this legendary Virginia destination. Every year, the Pony Swim brings wild horses from their habitat on Assateague Island to the Chincoteague Island auction. Young readers have loved the story Misty of Chincoteague for many years and look forward to seeing the real event in action. Come to watch the “Saltwater Cowboys” or walk out onto the accessible nature trail boardwalk.
4. Outer Banks, North Carolina
More wild horses can be found in parts of the Outer Banks in North Carolina. Wild Corolla horses may be seen on Currituck Beach. These horses are believed to be related to Spanish Mustangs that were brought over by early settlers. Rent a nearby beach house to watch the horses run from afar or join a guided horseback tour.
- Cody, Wyoming
Cody is a small town with a major variety of guided trail ride opportunities. This part of Wyoming has beautiful, expansive country views that are best appreciated from horseback. Book a ride with Cedar Mountain Trail Rides, Buffalo Bill Horse Rides, or Elf Ford Outfitters. You can also have the full western cowboy experience at Rand Creek Ranch.
- Lexington, Kentucky
Stop in at the International Museum of the Horse in Lexington and visit the famous Keeneland Race Course. The area is home to more than 450 horse farms, and many of them offer comprehensive tours for horse-loving visitors. The Kentucky Horse Park offers both camping spots and equine event viewing opportunities.
- Saratoga Spring, New York
Saratoga Race Course is the oldest track in the United States, founded in 1847. It has long been a destination for equine racing fans across America. Plan a trip to watch the $1.25 Million Travers Race, Whitney Stakes, or Saratoga Stakes Races. Also enjoy Saratoga’s natural springs, lakes, shopping, and theater entertainment.
- Ocala, Florida
This Marion County city is home to more than 600 different Thoroughbred horse farms. Ocala is commonly recognized as the “Horse Capital of the World” and has the official training site for the U.S. Equestrian Team at the Florida Horse Park. Watch high-level equestrian competitions throughout the year and meet some of the best trainers.
- Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville is at the top of any horse-lovers list of destinations. Plan your vacation to coincide with the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. The must-see event happens every May and attracts spectators from all over the world, with their best hats. Make the most of your visit by seeing the Muhammed Ali Center and Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, too.
- Branson, Missouri
Enjoy the excitement of Dolly Parton’s Stampede in Branson. A ticket to this event allows you to watch excellent riders, see beautiful horses, and eat tasty food. You may also choose a peaceful trail ride with a local guide company.
Explore American horse country today!
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Suzanne Ashton, Founder of Everything Horse (Est, 2012), has a BA Hons in Marketing Management and a Diploma in Equine Science. Suzanne has ridden and owned horses all her life and has twelve years of experience in marketing, writing, design, SEO, and website creation.