When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship
Why Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship, established in 1980 and located in Phoenix, Arizona, offers a comprehensive and welcoming environment for horse riding enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. Recognized as the only nationally accredited horseback riding school in Arizona through the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA), the school stands out by prioritizing safety and thorough horsemanship education. Whether you are a beginner, a timid or rusty rider, or even considering horse ownership, Joni Fitts School adapts its lessons to individual needs, making it an ideal meeting place for friends and families to bond over horseback riding experiences. The school provides instruction in both English and Western riding styles, incorporating elements like trotting poles, small jumps, obstacles, and trail courses to enrich the learning journey. With a versatile mix of horse breeds in the program, students gain broad horsemanship skills and appreciation for equine diversity. Its team of nationally certified instructors, accredited by the American Riding Instructor Certification Program (ARICP), further ensures high-quality training and safety for all participants. Beyond lessons, the school offers horse boarding and rental services, expanding the options for riders to enjoy their horsemanship pursuits together in a supportive and engaging setting.
Here's what people think of Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship
As of recent, Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship holds a 3.8-star rating based on 33 reviews.
User reviews of the Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship highlight a mix of experiences contributing to its 3.8-star rating from 33 reviews. Positive feedback frequently applauds the school's knowledgeable, certified instructors and the focus on safety and personalized lesson plans. Many appreciate the school's accommodating atmosphere for beginners and timid riders, as well as the variety of riding styles and activities included, such as trail rides and obstacle courses. Reviewers also commend the school's longevity and reputable accreditation, reinforcing trust in the quality of instruction. However, some negative reviews mention issues such as communication difficulties, scheduling challenges, or occasional dissatisfaction with the facilities or horse conditions. A few users noted that the boarding services and customer service could see improvements. Despite the critiques, the majority of the feedback converges on a respectful and educational equestrian experience that fulfills its mission of safe horsemanship and riding enjoyment. Overall, the reviews reflect a school with solid strengths in instruction and accreditation while indicating areas for customer experience enhancement, making it a dependable choice for those seeking horseback riding lessons in Phoenix.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Gisell Salazar
This is an amazing barn horses are very well trained I have been riding for a year and have fell in love with them all. The coaches are absolutely amazing. The horses are cared for very well and in very well conditions. Staff is very patient and helps with any questions you have. Everyone is very friendly Aswell as proffesional. They are very good with safety and make riding very fun while learning. Joni Fitts school is f horsemanship is absolutely amazing and I very much recommend bringing you or your children here.
Dan Christison
I booked an appointment for my children to have a riding lesson during the 1600: time slot that she gave me for Friday 14 February 2025. She no-called/no-showed. She claimed that she texed to inform me, but ut just didnt go through. Trying to be understanding, so we rescheduled for today, Friday the 28th (same time slot, two weeks later). And it was agreed that we couldn’t on the 21st due to a school trip. My ex and I were present on the call when she agreed to this. Today I texed and called to make sure that my kids wouldn’t be stood up again and she said: “Hi Dan. We don’t have you scheduled today, we had you down for last week. If you want the 4p spot, we can put the kids down for next week. Once we get them started, their class will continue to meet every Fri at 4.” I called my ex to make sure that I wasn’t going crazy. And she recalled that Joni committed to the 28th as well. I tried to call and text to work this out with her, but as of yet she hasn’t responded.
Drew Reed
My daughter really enjoys learning horsemanship from this wonderful school. The instructors take their time to show and explain things to the students and it is a great learning environment.
Thomas McDonald
My daughter had a wonderful experience at Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship. Both Joni and Cali are well experienced horse riding trainers with leading industry certifications. I appreciated the focus on safety and their relentless pursuit to teach the proper riding methods. Not only did their program teach my daughter the skills to begin her horse riding pursuits, but the experience helped her gain a significant amount of confidence and patiences.
Skyy Teegarden
Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship is an amazing facility! I have ridden at JFSH countless times and I have never had a bad experience. Any rider will no doubt have a wonderful experience if they choose to ride there. The owner obviously knows what she’s doing based on the way she runs the stables and chooses instructors. I highly recommend riding at Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship for any training no matter what age or experience you have.
How to reach Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship
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Why Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship with your friends? This unique equestrian facility in Phoenix offers a memorable and engaging setting to gather for a group outing, blending outdoor adventure with hands-on horse experiences. At Joni Fitts, you and your friends can share the joy of learning horseback riding, experience the tranquility of the outdoors, and connect with majestic horses in a safe and welcoming environment. The school's nationally accredited status and emphasis on beginner- and family-friendly lessons make it highly accessible, even if none of you have prior riding experience. Plus, the spacious, well-maintained grounds create a relaxed atmosphere perfect for socializing before and after lessons or trail rides. When you come together here, you’re not just signing up for a group activity; you’re creating lasting memories through shared discovery, teamwork, and a mutual appreciation for horsemanship. Given its location near Phoenix’s natural beauty, the school also offers a refreshing outdoor escape, making it an ideal destination to celebrate special occasions or simply spend quality time with loved ones.
What activities does Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship offer for groups? The school’s core offering is horseback riding lessons designed for all skill levels, focusing on safe, supportive instruction for riders aged 7 and up. Both English and Western riding disciplines are available, which means your group can explore different styles of horsemanship to find what resonates best. Beyond lessons, the school participates in the Blue Ribbon Horse Show series, providing opportunities to watch or even join low-key, local horse competitions that add excitement and a sense of accomplishment to the experience. Trail rides expose riders to scenic outdoor environments around the facility, perfect for groups wanting a more leisurely, exploratory adventure. For families and younger participants, age-appropriate programs engage children and inspire confidence through interaction with horses and learning basic horse care skills. Additionally, the school hosts an equestrian club and special events, which provide structured group activities to deepen involvement in the equestrian community. This wide array of offerings ensures every visitor, whether novice or seasoned rider, finds something enriching to enjoy together.
Why is Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship a perfect venue for a group meetup? First, the facility itself is expansive and clean, located on beautiful grounds in Phoenix that invite lingering and socializing. Large enough to comfortably host groups, the school’s friendly and certified instructors ensure personalized attention while creating a fun group dynamic. The presence of multiple horses of different breeds allows groups to try various types of horses, making the experience more diverse and engaging. The school also emphasizes horsemanship fundamentals, meaning your meetup is educational and hands-on, with opportunities for everyone to learn grooming, tacking, and proper horse care. This interactive environment encourages bonding not just between friends but also with the horses. Furthermore, the school’s reputation for safety and professionalism reassures group organizers that the outing will be pleasant and worry-free. The combination of natural beauty, quality instruction, and broad activity choices makes it an ideal setting for celebrations, team-building, or simply reconnecting with friends and family in a unique way.
How does Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship accommodate different skill levels within a group? Whether some members have never mounted a horse or others have riding experience, the school offers tailored lessons that meet varied needs in a supportive setting. Since the program focuses heavily on beginners and “rusty” riders, new equestrians can start comfortably, learning all aspects from grooming to basic riding techniques. Experienced riders are given opportunities to advance their skills, including participating in horse shows or more challenging rides. Instructors are nationally certified, ensuring expert guidance that is adaptive and patient, so no group member feels left behind. Offering lessons to children and adults alike fosters an inclusive atmosphere for families attending with mixed ages and abilities. The school’s structured programs and flexible lesson formats enable groups to coordinate their sessions so everyone progresses at their own pace while enjoying the shared experience together.
What unique benefits does Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship provide compared to other equestrian venues? It stands out as the only nationally accredited horseback riding school in Arizona via the Certified Horsemanship Association, highlighting its commitment to high standards in instruction and safety. This national certification assures groups that they are receiving professional, quality guidance from instructors who hold recognized certifications themselves. The school’s participation in the Blue Ribbon Horse Show series uniquely offers access to local competitions that are welcoming and affordable, which not all riding schools provide. Its base at the Pinnacle West Equestrian Center situates it in a scenic, well-maintained park that enhances the overall experience for visitors. Unlike more commercialized or crowded venues, Joni Fitts’ environment maintains a personal, community-oriented feel that many groups appreciate for meaningful interactions and friendships. Those seeking both skill-building and recreational enjoyment find the school’s balance of education, competition, and recreation distinctly rewarding.
How can groups enhance their meetup experience at Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship? Planning your gathering around one of the school’s special events or club meetings can add structure and variety to your visit. Participating in trail rides allows your group to explore the scenic landscapes surrounding the facility together, fostering camaraderie outside the arena. Prior to lessons, take time to enjoy the peaceful open spaces where group members can relax and socialize, strengthening connections. Consider booking a group lesson or private session for more focused interaction with instructors and horses, making the outing feel tailored and exclusive. Food and drink can be enjoyed in designated areas nearby, helping extend the time together before or after activities. Bringing along cameras or smartphones to capture moments with horses and friends ensures the memories you build are easily shared and remembered fondly. The school’s welcoming community vibe also means your group can often meet other riders and families, potentially expanding your social circle.
What should visitors know before their first group visit? Newcomers should understand that safety is a priority, with thorough orientation and beginner lessons available for those unfamiliar with horses. There is no requirement to bring previous riding gear; the school provides necessary equipment and guidance. Group sizes can be coordinated with the facility, making it wise to book in advance to ensure availability for your preferred date and time. Weather in Phoenix is usually favorable for outdoor activities, but checking the forecast ensures your group dresses comfortably and stays hydrated. Familiarize yourself with the basics of horse behavior and barn etiquette, which the instructors cover, so everyone enjoys a smooth experience. Parents bringing children can expect specialized children’s activities tailored to their development levels. By preparing accordingly, your group’s visit will be safe, enjoyable, and fulfilling from start to finish.
In summary, the Joni Fitts School of Horsemanship offers an outstanding venue for groups of friends or family looking to engage in a fun, educational, and unique outdoor activity. Its national accreditation, experienced instructors, varied programs, and welcoming atmosphere combine to create an exceptional destination for group gatherings. Whether you’re looking to learn horseback riding together, attend local shows, or simply enjoy time with horses in a beautiful setting, this school delivers a memorable and enriching experience that enhances connections through shared adventure. Planning your next group meetup here promises not only quality horsemanship education but also a warm community experience surrounded by the natural splendor of Phoenix, making it an excellent choice for both casual and committed riders alike.