It seems like there’s nothing like the thrill of a pony ride for a young child, which is why we visit MacDonald’s Ranch every time we’re in Scottsdale! MacDonald’s Ranch is a Western playground filled with fun activities for adults and kids. This year when we visited the ranch, my daughter’s dream came true and she was able to go on a one-hour trail ride and she had the time of her life.
When we arrive at MacDonald’s Ranch, my kids always start with the pony rides (which are free with a tip to your horse handler), and then we head over to the petting zoo where they can mingle with goats, pigs, miniature horses, donkeys, goats, sheep and chickens. After they get their fill of animals, we head over to the area where they have some fun games – bean bag toss, ring toss, and horseshoes. There’s also a fun area with “cows” that the kids can practice their lassoing with. (All of these activities are FREE!)
This year we set up a trail ride for my daughter, husband, uncle, and friend. We checked in when we arrived, and they got the horses all ready for the ride, and then the riders hopped up on their horses (thanks to a handy step stool) and headed out into the desert for an hour ride. The horses were so good and just followed each other along, so it was the perfect opportunity for most of our riders who were riding for the first time. They came back with rave reviews and my daughter is already asking when she can go again!
MacDonald’s Ranch is always a part of our Scottsdale vacation plans, and I hope it’s something you’ll enjoy as a family too. All of the activities onsite are free to enjoy, and the trail rides vary in pricing based on the length of trail ride. You can learn more at their website: http://www.macdonaldsranch.com/.
