The best horseback riding in NYC

Options abound at this family-operated equestrian center in Brooklyn. Since the '70s, Jamaica Bay Riding Academy has provided visitors with an opportunity to hop on a horse and gallop down local paths. Interested visitors can choose from private lessons, lesson packages, summer camp sessions, birthday parties and theraputic riding.

With a special focus on theraputic programming, GallopNYC caters its riding offers to help those with emotional, physical, developmental and other disabilities. Recreational riding is available but limited, and all procedes go toward the theraputic tutition scholarships. Free horse education programs are also available.

Why walk through Prospect Park when you can explore the Brooklyn green space on horseback? Prospect Park Stables from Be•Brooklyn Equine, formerly Kensington Stables, takes riders of all levels on a 3.5-mile path through the park and also offers lessons, pony rides at the barn for tots, a teen horsemanship program and other cool features. All ages. 

When venturing to Randall's Island, make sure to enjoy an elevated view of the surrounding areas, courtesy of the horses. The New York City Riding Academy is prepared to turn your little equestrian into a full-fledged pro by way of riding lessons and summer camps, which focuses on riding, grooming, saddling and more.

Gallop through Van Cortlandt Park on horseback and learn how to ride, jump and care for horses thanks to Riverdale Stable's after-school programs, private lessons, summer camps that culminate in informal horse shows and jumping lessons.

English and Western riding lessons, pony rides and trail rides are offered to children ages 6 and up. What are you waiting for?! Don't forget to explore the birthday party options for the little rider in your life.