Things to Do in Chelsea

A nationally renowned trainer with more than 25 years of equine experience, Anna Owens leads a staff of instructors in the instillation of proper riding form at Lachlan Farm. During lessons, riders establish a firm fundamental foundation and then hone specific skills to achieve their individual goals, whether they are competitive showmanship or mounted vigilantism. Lachlan Farm’s instructors cater to all ages and skill levels, even instructing youngsters aged 2–6 in private mini lessons that focus on the basics. Lessons occur rain or shine, as they can be moved to the facility’s indoor areas if the weather refuses to cooperate.

Hidden Hills Equestrian Center's owner and trainer, Stephanie Howard Gingles, shares her equine-related wisdom with casual and competitive riders during horse-riding lessons, which cover English-, hunter-, and jumper-style riding techniques and horse-care methods. Hidden Hills Equestrian Center's owner and trainer, Stephanie Howard Gingles, shares her equine-related wisdom with casual and competitive riders during horse-riding lessons, which cover English-, hunter-, and jumper-style riding techniques and horse-care methods. The facility’s lush, emerald expanses and white fences reserve a spacious area for advanced lessons in jumping and horse showing. Students can borrow one of Hidden Hills’ horses for riding lessons and fast-food runs, or can bring along their own steeds. Horse owners can also find adequate lodgings for their four-legged companions in Hidden Hills’ boarding stalls, which include grooming, feeding, and blanketing services.

Along Stepping Stone Farm's 130 acres of pastures, trails, and tree-studded hills, owner Courtney Huguley provides opportunities for students to hone horsemanship skills and connect with natural surroundings. During lessons, Courtney and assistant instructor Melissa Croxton teach students the basics of saddleseat riding, a traditional English style from which many other methods have originated, including jousting with swimming noodles. Once students gain comfort and confidence during private lessons, the instructors introduce them to group lessons with up to four other riders to master walking, trotting, and synchronized neighing.

Weeklong summer camps are also available for younger riders. During these sessions, each camper is assigned to one specific horse, learning responsibility and companionship.

Under the shadowy cover of nightfall, and by the flickering glow of a lantern, the Birmingham Ghost Walk weaves gaggles of ghost seekers through the city's spirit-populated historical sites. Tour leader Wolfgang Poe leads each march through time, beginning with a group-bonding ritual that tunes minds into the vibrations of Wolfgang's spirit guides. Winding toward the Alabama and Lyric Theaters, walks stop to discuss brothels, taverns, and townhouses long since gone, but not vacated by their former inhabitants. As the moon slinks behind clouds and shadows move into the shapes of embarrassing childhood nicknames, tour-takers shake off spine-tingling chills to finish the adventure at the Tutwiler Hotel. Cameras are allowed and, due to its dark themes and subject matter, the Ghost Walk gives itself a PG-13 rating.