Tails & Trails: Horseback Riding For Kids In Brooklyn

Brooklyn kids have it all: playdates in world famous parks, art classes surrounded by masterpieces, and cuisine to tempt even the pickiest of eaters. But as much as the borough has to offer kids, there are four words that could send a Brooklyn parent into a frenzy: “I want a pony.”

If your kid is dreaming of saddles and braiding manes, don’t put your co-op on the market just yet. Head to these stables to give them the best equestrian experiences Brooklyn has to offer.

Kensington Stables
51 Caton Place, 718-972-4588

This decades-old stable nestled between warehouses and new condos developments would be easy to miss if it weren’t for the occasional whinnying. But if you’ve ever had to stop for a passing horse in Prospect Park, this is where they came from. Offering trail rides, lessons, and even a summer camp, Kensington Stables is the only place near the park to saddle up. For kids 11 and up, the 3.5-mile, hour-long trail ride costs $37. Younger kids are welcome on the trail rides too, but with the assistance of a grounds person and at a rate of $57. For smaller children, Kensington Stables has pony rides that will take them up the block and back for only $3, but call ahead first to make sure there are ponies available that day. Open from 10am to sunset every day of the week, Kensington Stables is located about a 10-minute walk from the Fort Hamilton F train station.

Jamaica Bay Riding Academy
7000 Shore Parkway, 718-531-8949

Less accessible by public transportation, but worthy of the trip, Jamaica Bay Riding Academy in Bergen Beach has been offering trail rides and equestrian lessons since 1972. Located in the Gateway National Wildlife Preserve, JBRA trail rides will take you and your kids along the Mill Basin shoreline. For kids 6 and older, the 50-minute trail ride costs $65 per person and requires a minimum of two people. JBRA also offers pony rides for kids 6 and younger at $17 for a 10-minute ride. Reservations are required for the trail rides, although it is best to call ahead anyway since the center is host to a number of events throughout the year.

GallopNYC
info@gallopnyc.org or 646-233-4507

For kids with special needs, Brooklyn-based nonprofit GallopNYC offers therapy programs for kids starting as young as 18 months. The well-loved therapeutic riding and hippotherapy programs are held at Kensington Stables as well as Jamaica Bay Riding Academy for limited sessions each season. More information about the benefits of the program and how to register your kids can be found on GallopNYC’s website.