Horses in NOLA?
There may be more horse stables and facilities in New Orleans than you think. Ponies and horses are in New Orleans beyond the French Quarters' carriage tours, which are typically mules, but all are a part of the Equidae family.
For all the horse girls and cowboys out there, here are some places you can put on your radar and what they offer in New Orleans. If you're interested in buying, boarding is covered, too.
First, here are some tips you should know before getting on a horse's back for the first time. Wear close-toed shoes—cowboy boots are the best choice. Also, wear long pants, not shorts, as jeans work well to protect against brush burn. Avoid dangling or loose objects in case the ride gets rowdy, and helmets are an obvious requirement for new riders and seasoned riders alike.
There are two types of horse riding: English and Western styles. The differences lie in the saddle seats and the rider's objectives.
Western style uses a large, wide saddle with a long horn handle for easier reining. Traditionally, the horn was designed for ranch work, such as wrapping rope for herding cattle. The Western style is used for rodeos, trail riding, long-distance treks, or utility runs. This style is the classic cowboy riding you see in Western movies.
The English style, originating from European cavalry, can be described as "horse-ballet." It's pretty fancy. English-style horses are trained for competitions, precise galloping, and tricks. The English saddle is flat, light, and has long stirrups to secure a close contact between rider and horse. Essentially, the seat is more comfortable and practical for jumping and racing than a Western saddle.
Cascade Stables
700 East Dr., New Orleans, LA 70118
cascadestables.net
Cascade Stables in Audubon Park was founded in 1981, claiming to be the oldest running stable in New Orleans and specializing in saddle seat riding, trail riding, and performance riding. If you ever wonder where those horses are from when you're in Audubon, it's there. The stable provides private, semi-private, and group lessons. Many professional equestrians practice for national competitions in the arena.
River Bend Stables
1125 General Ogden St., New Orleans, LA 70118
riverbendstables.com
Fitting its name, River Bend Stables is right on the levee off of Leake Avenue, where horses gallop along the Mississippi and are boarded in a quaint farmhouse. This facility does not offer horse rides to the public as they serve only to board horses monthly. When you pass by the farmhouse, you will probably see a horse grazing or walking about. If you want to buy a horse and live in New Orleans, think about visiting River Bend Stables.
New Branch Ranch
536 Seven Oaks Blvd., Bridge City, LA 70094
newbranchranch.com
This 115-acre ranch is a nonprofit rescue that offers trail rides, lessons, or plain ranch visits for affordable options. They are also developing horse rehabilitation and wellness facilities. Whether you want a private party, a romantic date night, or a picturesque retreat, New Branch Ranch can be a great place for an all-inclusive equestrian experience, about a 20-minute drive from New Orleans.
Saddle Up and Ride
10201 Lapalco Blvd., Avondale, LA 70094
saddleupandride.com
This horse riding school is used for school fairs, weddings, Girl and Boy Scout activities, and summer camps for kids. They also put on local horse shows and day events for the public. Bobbi Jo is the famous face of Saddle Up and Ride and trains kids from 3 years old and up to ride. The local horse shows and contests are on Sundays in the fall, winter, and spring seasons.
Pontchartrain Oak Stables
13112 Hayne Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70128
@ponchatrain.stables
These stables are more than a place for horseback riding—they're emotional. Pontchartrain Oak Stables offers horse boarding, equine-assisted wellness programs, and community-centered partnerships in New Orleans. Rooted in horsemanship and emotional connection, the stable hosts collaborative workshops with local artists, foundations, and community organizations, where wellness practices are explored alongside intimate time spent with the horses.
Sugar Roots Farm
10701 Willow Dr., New Orleans, LA 70131
sugarrootsfarm.org
Pigs, ponies, goats, ducklings, and fresh, raw honey and eggs are waiting for you at this farm. Interestingly, this farm allows you to rent out specific animals at any time of the year. You can rent the ponies named Cheddar or Chiquito, bunnies, chickens, and even goats. Workshops and festival events are also available. Sugar Roots is located in New Aurora, Algiers on the Westbank.
Fair Grounds Race Course
1751 Gentilly Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70119
fairgroundsracecourse.com
The Fair Grounds are an integral part of New Orleans' history. This 145-acre arena in Gentilly is a horse racing ground known for its Thanksgiving celebrations, the Louisiana Derby, and for being the home of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. The track is one of the oldest thoroughbred racetracks in the country, running since 1872. Betting on horses is an antiquated practice and the Fair Grounds keeps the tradition rolling, along with several slot machines and off-track betting parlors.
Equine Reflections Therapeutic Center
81120 Chenel Rd., Folsom, LA 70437
heartslandingranch.com
Have you heard of horse therapy? Healing begins with the presence of a horse at Equine Reflection Therapeutic Center. They work with community members seeking mental health benefits. The equine-assisted psychotherapy sessions involve licensed mental health professionals, horses, and psychologists, and no writing is involved. The center's retreats, coaching, and volunteer programs work with people to heal from traumas and find rehabilitation at the ranch. There are also confidence-building programs that assist in building partnerships with horses.
Horses help individuals with ADD/ADHD focus, neuro-muscular disorders, and building confidence in children. They can also visit patients in hospitals and care centers, according to Mayo Clinic.
If you've dreamed of a horse, but said, "Oh well, I'm in New Orleans," think again. Grab your cowboy boots and a saddle of your choosing and get riding.
