Dunham Woods Farms

We took their Intro To Horsemanship class through the park district and simply loved it. The staff is friendly, attentive and encouraging yet laid-​back, relaxed and not over-​bearing. From their thorough explanations of «how and why» to giving you hands-​on experience in all aspects of the sport, they make sure you have a great experience. What they don’t do is simply treat you like just another wannabe who will be gone after the 6 weeks. They are genuinely interested in transferring their knowledge and preparing you in case you decide to take up the hobby/​sport on a long-​term basis. There were several people who were helping out with our class that were graduates of previous park district intro classes. Even so, their first priority is where it should be, the horses. They are meticulous with grooming and care. They seem happy and well treated. The staff goes so far as matching you with the correct size horse AND they rotate the horses so you get to experience different rides. After the week 1 intro, we rode the next 5 sessions and I had 4 different horses!!! If you have never ridden and always wanted to experience a little more than the normal tourist «trail ride», I highly recommend this place. Check the local park districts for an intro class and if you decide to continue, the staff at Dunham will give you many options. They are VERY accommodating.

Rode here for years when Linda and Julie were instructors, excellent facility. They host two schooling shows a year which are fun. They treat the school horses like kings and queens and they are very well cared for. Will go again if I ever lose weight lol