I admit, I’m one of those people that considers a horse show a vacation…whether I’m competing or just watching. I love the excitement and the atmosphere…fancy show clothes and bright colored ribbons…the sweet smell of hay and horse sweat…. But, turns out, some people don’t enjoy watching horses parade around in the arena during their downtime (shocking, I know!).
If you’re looking for a vacation destination that can satisfy both horse lovers and the rest of the family all at the same time, check out these great options!
Lexington, KY
Located in the heart of bluegrass horse country, Lexington offers a wide variety of activities for horse lovers and non-horse lovers alike! Barn tours, race tracks, the Kentucky Horse Park…equestrians can be entertained for days. While distillery tours, historical sites, and beautiful countryside provide lots of opportunities for non-horse lovers to explore and enjoy the area as well.
For great ideas of things to do in Lexington for horse lovers, check out this blog post!
Assateague and Chincoteague Island, VA/MD
If you grew up reading Misty of Chincoteague by Marguerite Henry, then you’re familiar with Assateague Island. This island is home to a band of wild ponies that roam free on the beach. Once a year the horses are gathered and driven to Chincoteague Island where a portion of them are sold to private owners to help maintain an appropriate herd size. Not only does Chincoteague/Assateague offer the opportunity to glimpse these wild horses in their natural habitat, there are incredible beaches to explore as well as hiking, fishing, and crabbing/clamming for the less horse inclined of the group.
Mackinac Island, MI
Mackinac Island in Lake Huron is unique in the fact that it doesn’t allow motor vehicles on the island. Instead, horses, bicycles, and boats provide the main forms of transportation. It’s like stepping back in time. Take a leisurely carriage tour around the island…enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing…visit a fudge factory…or check out the local historic sites.
