City Island Stables, Inc.

“Great experience at the City Island Stables. It was my first time riding a horse and they made everything easy. We booked a private trail ride for 10:30 on a weekday. We arrived at around 10:20 and parked in the graveled lot. We entered the sole building where we checked in and had to fill out liability waivers. We then waited while the horses were prepped. In the building, there is a bathroom, a beverage vending machine, some lovely decor as some horse-riding related items for purchase. We were told to choose a helmet...they have both medium and large sizes. Now most of the helmets are very worn but there is sanitizing spray there. They also recommended and offered some bug spray (OFF) as it was very humid that day. Once the horses were ready we used the small staircase to get on them. It can be a little strange for those uneasy with heights or balance...but take it someone who is uneasy with both...you will get comfortable very quickly. Navigating the horse are very straight-forward...pull the reins left to go left, right to go right, pull both back to stop and kick the horse (yeah...I know...felt a little bad at first too) to speed up or go forward. The horses are well trained so they are very familiar with their order and the trail. They will navigate through it on auto-pilot essentially. During my trail ride, I only needed to kick 2-3 times...to catch (speed) up and move forward when it was distracted once. The trail offered a lot of tree-shaded areas so it wasn't too bad on that hot and humid day. Our trail guide was great...she seemed very knowledgeable and experience and answered all of our questions. All other staff we encountered were also very nice. We had a great time here and would highly recommend it. Trail rides (No reservations required) are $70 per person for 45-60 minutes. Private trail rides (Reservations required) where it is ONLY you, your party and the instructor are $85. There are also lesser options for $10-15 which include a guided ride around the corral. They also offer private riding lessons for $50 per 30 minutes and $75 for 60 minutes.”

“Horses in the Bronx?!? Who would have thought. The horses were friendly and the staff too. We booked online and left a deposit. Easy. Getting there we took an uber but driving and parking is available. The ride was calming and therapeutic. A hidden gem for sure for the Bronxinites. I recommend if you are in the Bronx or wanting to visit something besides the zoo.”

“Great staff, horses seem to be very well taken care of. The trail ride was nice and well paced. My boy Ace did very well, as all the other horses. Id recommend this place for everyone whether its something you've done 100 times or it being your first.”

“This place is amazing. Me and my family of 5 were able to be squeeze in as walkins. (But please don’t do that do your reservation online) we were really lucky. James our instructor was so nice and patiently with us. My kids (teenagers) had fun!”