Lakewood Equestrian Center has rides, lessons, and more

Somewhere deep down, there’s a cowboy or cowgirl just waiting to break free. Of course, living in a city, you might think that itch will have to go unscratched. However, it’s easier than you think—especially if you live in Lakewood.

Only 14 minutes away from Park Del Amo Apartment Homes, Lakewood Equestrian Center is one Lakewood gem you need to check out. This public equestrian facility has been a staple in Lakewood since 1946. From horseback training to pony rides to horse therapy, here’s what you’ll find on a visit to Lakewood Equestrian Center.

Ever wanted to learn to ride a horse? Or do you need to brush up on your riding skills? Lakewood Equestrian Center offers Western riding lessons, English riding lessons, and dressage training. Sessions are available for children and adults, but kids must be at least seven years old to participate. Check here for contact information to schedule a lesson.

Part of the facility, Pony Time is a private company offering activities for kids of all ages. There’s a petting zoo ( check for re-opening details), “unicorn” and pony rides, animal feeding, summer camps, special events, and more. 

Pony lessons and trail rides are available by appointment only. For kids ages one and older, you can choose a groom and trail ride or just a trail ride. Pony lessons are for children ages three to seven. For all riding activities, children must weigh 80 pounds or less.  

Pony Time also offers walk-in trot rides from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. During these rides, a pony trots around the track for five laps. Children must be at least three years old and weigh 80 pounds or less.

Kids can also take a turn riding a “unicorn” around the track for five laps on weekdays, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. and 2–4 p.m. on weekends. Riders must be at least one year old and weigh 80 pounds or less.

Another part of the facility is the all-volunteer Shoestring City Ranch . This 501(c)(3) equine therapy program rescues horses and uses them to teach children about farm life and animal care. The horses in the program have either been neglected, rescued from slaughter, or given up by owners who could no longer care for them. In the program, children learn responsibility, build confidence, and gain communication skills while learning how to care for horses.

Lakewood Equestrian Center is so much more than a local attraction. Whether you’re taking lessons, watching your children on a pony ride, or working one on one with horses in recovery, it’s a place for building character and memories to last a lifetime. If all of that is reason enough to stick around in Lakewood, California, check out Park Del Amo Apartment Homes . After your equestrian experience, we’d love to make coming home the best part of your day.

Photo courtesy of Pony Time