Where To Get Horseback Riding Lessons in Philly

Even in a big city like Philadelphia, you can get a taste of the countryside by learning how to ride horses.

A brown horse in a stable looks over expressively
Dream Park Equestrian Center in Gloucester County, NJ, is the temporary home of several horses, including Duke. (Abby Fritz / City Cast Philly)

Equine events such as the 8 Seconds Rodeo showcase Black rodeo athleticism and culture, a heritage that Philly is no stranger to. The city has a long history of cowboy culture, from our signature Stetson hats to riding communities dating back to the early 20th century. Learn the history and how to ride a horse at these local stables.

Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club

2607-11 West Fletcher St.

For over a century, Fletcher Street cowboys have redefined what it means to be a cowboy in a big city. Located in the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood, this organization preserves the legacy of Philly’s Black cowboys and cowgirls. Fletcher Street teaches young people life skills through horsemanship. You can volunteer on weekdays or weekends, or apply to become an official member of Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club.

Courtesy Stables

901 East Cathedral Rd.

All levels of equestrian experience are welcome. Lessons on horseback riding, leasing, trail riding, and overall horsemanship are taught here. Volunteers needed.

Next Event: 🌳Fall Day of Service - Love Your Park 2025 on Nov. 15 at 10 a.m.

Chamounix Equestrian Center

98 Chamounix Dr.

Operating out of Chamounix, Work to Ride is a local nonprofit program that teaches youth all about equine sports like polo. There are also riding lessons, summer camps, and after-school programs.

Next Event: 🎃Halloween Gymkhana Horse Show on Oct. 26 at 10 a.m.

Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Academy

8297 Bustleton Ave.

Pegasus is accredited with the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship. It’s the city’s only full-time therapeutic riding program, with equine-assisted services for children and adults with disabilities, and at-risk populations.

Next Event: 🥂2025 Volunteer Appreciation Dinner on Oct. 10 at 6 p.m.

Northwestern Stables

120 West Northwestern Ave.

This is the home of the University of Pennsylvania's equestrian team. The stables are open to the public for weekly summer camps and lessons for children over the age of seven, as well as adults.

Next Event: 🐴Haunted Horses on Oct. 25 at 4:30 p.m.

Monastery Stables

1000 Kitchens Ln.

This five-acre complex is home to the Boarders and Stewards of the Monastery, a nonprofit organization that offers riding lessons and horsemanship programs. The Fairmount Park Conservancy preserves the buildings and grounds here. Along the trails of the Wissahickon, you may see the affiliated Philadelphia Saddle Club – a membership equestrian club.