Come horse around at Echo Farm in South Salem on this Road Trip: Close to Home.

The farm offers lesson for beginner riders up to experienced ones. “We have approximately 28 horses at any given time, that fluctuates a little bit. We have about 30 acres, lots of turn out for the horse,” says Echo Farm owner Callie Kuntz.

You can book a 30 minute, one-on-one lesson, and learn to ride like a pro. No matter the level, getting to know the horse you’re about ride is vital. That’s why they encourage you to come a little earlier and get acquainted with your new partner.   

It’s a partnership in which there has to be certain trust and respect. 

Then, you’ll learn to saddle up. Getting on a horse can be complicated, but Kuntz walks you through the process so you’ll be trotting in no time! “For a lot of people, horses are therapeutic to begin with so just being out and spending time with an animal is very relaxing and can help everybody regroup in these crazy times,” says Kuntz.

You'll also learn the importance of grooming and caring for your horse. “It will protect them from like the tack, which is the saddle and bridals we put on them, but it’s also a great opportunity to form a bond with your horse,” says rider Amanda Ferrara.

And right across the street, we found the perfect restaurant that truly fits today's theme. The Horse and Hound has a long history dating back to the 1700s. This restaurant serves anything from pub fare to fine dining, and their meals are made with herbs grown right from the restaurant’s garden!