Before domesticating horses, medieval knights experimented with alternative transportation methods, but they found that cows moved too slowly and court jesters were backseat drivers. Learn from mounting mistakes with today's Groupon: for $45, you get two one-hour private riding lessons at Arcadia Stables in Holly (a $100 value).
Planted on an idyllic, hilly 70-acre farm, Arcadia Stables houses a 100'x200' indoor arena, three horses and two large ponies for lessons, and experienced trainer Danielle Weddle, who teaches English-style riding and proper horse care in private one-hour lessons. Danielle begins lessons by instilling the basics of grooming, tacking, and caring for horses to help develop strong human-steed relationships without the use of velcro. Then, riders are given the reins for 30–45 minutes of saddle time as they learn English-style riding. Depending on availability, equine apprentices can schedule lessons any time between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. seven days a week. Riders are required to wear hard-soled shoes, jeans, and a convincing John Wayne smirk.
Arcadia Stables
Arcadia Stables stretches out across more than 70 acres of picturesque riding trails, rolling hills, and verdant woods. The equestrian experts’ hard work has helped to maintain the 100’x200’ indoor arena, where riders can master the art of English-style riding during private and group lessons. Adjacent to the indoor arena, a heated observation room—complete with a kitchenette—lets parents keep an eye on lessons, saving students from the hassles of additional pressure or the stench of a parent who hid inside the manure pile just to feel more involved.