Family-Friendly Horse Play in Galena, Illinois
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Basic mobility is sufficient; suitable for young children and seniors.
Overview
Engage with gentle horses through grooming, leading, and learning about their care at Shenandoah Riding Center in Galena. A perfect adventure for families eager to connect with these amazing animals.
Horse Play
Family Horse Experience All Ages Welcome
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About This Adventure
Experience the magic of Shenandoah Riding Center with hands-on activities perfect for families and young children. Engage with friendly horses through grooming, leading, and learning about their care. Explore the barn and discover fascinating insights into horse nutrition and health, making this a memorable day for all horse enthusiasts.
Come and join us and get a glimpse into what Shenandoah Riding Center is all about. This is a perfect experience for families or groups that have kids too young for our trail rides. This is also a great choice for those who want to interact with horses without having to get into the saddle or ride in an outdoor environment. Over the course of your visit, we will engage in several different horse-related activities, and meet with many horses both big and small. We will groom, tack, and lead the horses around the property. Our horses absolutely love attention and are a great way to interact with equines for younger or more apprehensive humans. We will also tour our barn and meet with whoever may be inside that day while learning about the functioning of the farm and what it takes to care for these amazing animals. What do horses eat? Do they need special diets or vitamins? What do we do if a horse needs to see the vet? These are just a few examples of things we will discuss during your visit.
***All children 12 and under will need a paying adult ***
Need 4 participants for event to take place
Adventure Tips
Wear closed-toe shoes
Protect your feet around horses and in the barn with sturdy, closed-toe footwear.
Arrive hydrated
Bring water especially in warmer months to stay comfortable during activities outdoors.
Listen carefully during barn tours
Pay close attention to the care instructions to safely interact with the horses.
Avoid loose clothing
Wear fitted clothes to prevent tangling or snagging when grooming or walking horses.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer
- Eastern bluebirds
History
Galena has a rich equestrian history dating back to the 19th century, when horse-drawn transport was vital for mining and farming.
Conservation
Shenandoah Riding Center promotes sustainable horse care practices and supports local land preservation efforts to protect natural habitats.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe sturdy shoes
Protects feet from accidental stepping or rough barn surfaces.
Light jacket or layers
Keeps you comfortable during cool spring mornings or evenings.
spring specific
Insect repellent
Helps to keep pesky bugs away during warm months.
summer specific
Water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout your adventure.