When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Tri-Star Farm
Why Tri-Star Farm is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Tri-Star Farm is a distinguished horse breeding farm located in Gallatin, Tennessee, specializing in the production of high-quality Tennessee Walking Horses. Established from a dream born in 1996 by owner Brad Tuttle, the farm has earned a prestigious reputation in the equestrian community. It is renowned for breeding champion horses, including the notable 2023 2-Year World Grand Champion "No Apology." Visitors to Tri-Star Farm can experience a welcoming environment that showcases exceptional horses bred with care and expertise. The farm's focus on quality breeding and commitment to the Tennessee Walking Horse breed make it an exceptional place for enthusiasts and friends to gather and appreciate world-class equine talent. This combination of dedication, success, and a serene rural Tennessee setting creates an excellent atmosphere for social meetups and passionate discussions about horse breeding and training.
Here's what people think of Tri-Star Farm
As of recent, Tri-Star Farm holds a 4.4-star rating based on 55 reviews.
User reviews for Tri-Star Farm reflect a high level of satisfaction, as evidenced by its 4.4-star rating. Reviewers frequently praise the farm’s expert care of the Tennessee Walking Horses, emphasizing the quality and pedigree of the horses bred there. Many positive comments highlight the professionalism and passion of the farm owner and staff, noting the success of their champion horses as a testament to their dedication. Visitors appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to engage with top-quality horses in a picturesque Tennessee setting. On the downside, some reviews occasionally mention challenges with scheduling visits or limited public access, which might affect casual visitors. However, these criticisms are minor and do not overshadow the overwhelmingly positive feedback regarding the farm's breeding excellence and the exceptional condition of its horses. Overall, reviews suggest that Tri-Star Farm is a highly regarded destination for horse enthusiasts looking to meet in a friendly, quality-focused environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Emilie Davis
We took our Girl Scout troop here for an afternoon to earn a horsemanship badge. The girls had the very best time! We had 15 girls. They were so organized and planned everything, splitting them into 3 groups and rotating through stations. All of the people that worked there were lovely and very patient with our 2nd graders. They loved riding the horses, seeing all the animals and grooming the ponies. It was a very sweet afternoon! It would be a great place for a birthday party too!
Justen Horton
My wife and I had such an amazing experience here riding some horses on this trail that goes through a 120-acre plot. The horses were very well trained and the instructors were fun to talk to and very helpful if you are not so experienced riding. You'll feel like an expert by the time you're done. They have lots of extra boots and helmets for comfort and safety if you need them.
Gricelda León
Booked a trail ride for my daughters and I. It had been years since we had ridden. Staff was so patient especially, Amber. She walked alongside the whole trail making sure we felt safe and gave us through invaluable instruction. She knew each horse and their personalities. 10/10 recommend.
Buck Foley
Our afternoon at Tri-Star was lovely. It's an affordable way to get out and enjoy the beautiful landscape that central Texas is famous for. Amanda was incredibly helpful, knowledgable, and hilarious. I highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for a scenic, affordable adventure!
Romy Hanna
I and my friend signed our eight year olds up for one of their full day week-long summer camps in June 2025. I kid you not, at 6 pm on the Saturday night before their camp started on Monday, I got a text saying "sorry, but we didn't have enough kids sign up so next week's camp is cancelled". The other mom did not get the text, so we spent the rest of our Saturday night both texting the original number as well as another number we found for the farm online, trying to figure out if it was a joke. Well, it wasn't. So Sunday AM we had to scramble to find another camp for our kids that started the next Monday morning (we are both working moms). If you are parent you know how hard this was. I have 2 kids (the oldest is 14) and in my nearly 10 years of signing kids up for summer camps I have never encountered a business who thought it was ok to cancel within 36 hours of starting a week-long full day camp. I understand that finances are tough, especially for stables in Austin these days and sometimes they can't make their numbers and have to cancel a camp. However this late of a cancel with a flippant text at 6 pm on a Saturday night is unacceptable. Luckily we were able to get our deposits back, but it took a couple of days of asking. If you want a horseback camp or lessons for your kiddo I would take them to one of the other lesson stables in town - Switch Willo or Lonestar Stables (both were full, of course - we ended up sending our kiddos to a climbing gym camp instead for that week). I will definitely avoid this stable for lessons or camps in the future for my kids and try to warn other parents about them now.
How to reach Tri-Star Farm
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Website: None
Why rally at Tri-Star Farm with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family for a memorable outing means choosing a location that offers a blend of natural beauty, engaging activities, and a welcoming atmosphere. Tri-Star Farm, located just outside of Austin in Coupland, Texas, is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the city's bustle for a refreshing outdoor experience. The farm spans over 100 acres of scenic, wooded hill-country trails, inviting visitors into a peaceful environment that fosters connection and adventure simultaneously. Whether your group consists of seasoned equestrians or complete beginners, Tri-Star Farm offers a unique opportunity to bond while enjoying horseback riding in an authentic natural setting. The combination of well-trained horses, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and safe, guided trail rides ensures everyone has a great time. Moreover, the farm’s rustic charm and the experience of traversing rolling hills, creeks, and wooded areas create lasting memories that go beyond the usual meetup. It’s a spot where personal stories are shared, laughter fills the air, and the simple joy of spending time outdoors with friends or family is elevated by the thrill of horse riding. This makes Tri-Star Farm a truly special place to rally your group for an outing that refreshes and reconnects.
What activities does Tri-Star Farm offer for groups?
Tri-Star Farm provides several key activities perfect for groups looking to engage in the great outdoors. The flagship experience is the guided horseback trail rides that navigate scenic Brushy Creek and surrounding wooded hills. These rides cater to all experience levels—from those who have never ridden before to advanced riders—making them accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Groups can choose between a one-hour ride, priced at $75 per person, which offers a fulfilling glimpse of the farm’s natural beauty, or extend their adventure with a two-hour ride for $120, allowing more time to explore diverse terrain and deepen the riding experience. Besides trail rides, the farm offers riding lessons, which can be excellent for groups interested in honing their equestrian skills together. These lessons base themselves on individual or group instruction and accommodate beginner through advanced riders, with a focus on safety and rider confidence. Additionally, Tri-Star Farm hosts birthday parties and summer camps, which can be an excellent reason for a large gathering of friends and family to come together for celebration and fun in a hands-on, nature-oriented setting. The farm's blend of trail riding, lessons, and event hosting creates a versatile environment where groups can tailor their visit to their interests and abilities.
Why is Tri-Star Farm perfect for a group meetup?
Tri-Star Farm excels as a group meetup location because it offers a shared experience in an expansive, natural setting that facilitates interaction and team bonding. The trails stretch over 100 acres of hill country, allowing groups to ride side by side through varied, beautiful landscapes without feeling crowded or rushed. The farm's management, led by lifelong rider Kathy Ellerbeck, prioritizes safety and personalized attention so that even newcomers to horse riding feel comfortable and encouraged during their visit. This level of care ensures that everyone, regardless of their skill level, can participate and enjoy themselves, which is critical when managing a diverse group. The horses themselves are well-trained and friendly, contributing to the confidence and enjoyment of riders. Beyond horseback riding, the farm’s accommodations for birthday celebrations and group lessons make it easy to organize an event with something for everyone—from the serious equestrians to those simply wanting a peaceful day outdoors. The combination of professional instruction, stunning nature, and the calming presence of horses creates an environment where friendships grow, family bonds strengthen, and groups share an unforgettable day.
What makes the horseback trail rides at Tri-Star Farm unique?
The horseback trail rides at Tri-Star Farm stand out due to their combination of scenic beauty, professional guidance, and inclusivity for all riding levels. Riders wind their way along Brushy Creek, passing through old trees and varying terrain that includes rolling hills and creek banks, providing a dynamic experience that is both peaceful and invigorating. Unlike generic riding facilities, Tri-Star Farm emphasizes the natural Texas hill-country setting, allowing groups to feel immersed in nature rather than confined to a small, artificial track. The guided tours are led by experienced instructors who tailor the pace and route according to the group's composition, ensuring novices can ride with ease and seasoned riders can enjoy a thorough exploration. The horses are carefully selected for their temperament and training, making them reliable partners regardless of the rider’s experience. These rides also function as excellent opportunities for learning, with guides sharing knowledge about horsemanship and the local environment, enriching the ride beyond simple recreation. This attention to detail combined with the genuine connection to the land creates a unique and memorable equine adventure for every participant.
How does Tri-Star Farm support and enhance rider experience across skill levels?
Tri-Star Farm’s approach to horseback riding is to provide supportive, quality instruction and experiences regardless of the rider’s expertise. The farm offers riding lessons individually or in groups, from beginners who are mounting a horse for the first time to advanced riders seeking to improve their technique. Instructors focus on rider confidence, balanced posture, and safe horse handling, underpinning every lesson with personalized guidance tailored to each participant's goals and abilities. This thoughtful instruction ensures that riders don’t just ride—they learn how to build a lasting bond with their horses, enhancing their control, trust, and enjoyment. Group lessons also cultivate camaraderie, allowing friends or family to progress together under professional supervision. For those interested in trail riding, pre-ride briefings and careful matching of horses and riders provide a reassuring foundation that helps alleviate fears while encouraging skill development. The supportive environment at Tri-Star Farm makes horseback riding an accessible and rewarding activity, turning what can be an intimidating experience into a fun and confidence-building outing for every guest.
Are there additional amenities or services that make Tri-Star Farm suitable for meetups?
Besides the core activities, Tri-Star Farm offers services designed to accommodate group needs and enhance the overall experience. The farm hosts birthday parties, creating a festive atmosphere where friends and family can celebrate surrounded by nature and horses. These events can be tailored with riding opportunities, lessons, refreshments, and space to gather, making party planning easier and more unique than typical venues. The farm also provides horse boarding for those who want to stay connected to the equine lifestyle beyond a day visit, which is ideal for groups with shared interests in horses and riding. The Coupland location’s proximity to Austin, just about 40 minutes away, gives easy access without feeling too distant from the city, making it a convenient escape. Ample parking and well-maintained facilities ensure comfort and accessibility, while the knowledgeable staff are always ready to assist, making the logistics of group visits smooth and worry-free. These amenities, combined with the natural beauty and expert horsemanship, create a holistic experience that supports group bonding and ensures a well-rounded, enjoyable visit.
How does Tri-Star Farm handle safety and animal welfare during group activities?
Safety and animal welfare are cornerstone values at Tri-Star Farm, particularly important when hosting diverse groups that may include first-time riders or children. The farm strictly follows animal welfare guidelines, ensuring that horses are well-cared for, healthy, and comfortable. This care reflects on the behavior and temperament of the animals, contributing to a safer and more pleasant riding experience. Group rides and lessons are supervised by trained professionals who provide safety briefings, monitor rider technique, and manage interactions in a controlled environment. Helmets and safety gear are encouraged or provided, and mounts are carefully matched to each rider’s ability to minimize risk. The staff’s attentive approach helps riders overcome fears while maintaining respect for the horses’ signals and limits. This focus on safety not only protects participants but also fosters a respectful human-animal connection vital for enjoyable equine experiences. Such conscientious management reassures groups that everyone’s well-being, both human and animal, is a top priority during visits.
What makes Tri-Star Farm’s location special for outdoor group activities?
Tri-Star Farm’s location in Coupland, Texas, is key to its appeal as an outdoor group destination. Situated about 40 minutes northeast of downtown Austin, it combines accessibility with the tranquility of a rural setting. The farm encompasses over 100 acres of wooded hill-country trails, offering a diverse and scenic backdrop for horseback riding and outdoor gatherings. The natural landscape features rolling hills, creek beds, and mature trees, which create interesting and varied riding trails that engage all the senses. The peaceful environment allows groups to disconnect from urban noise and distractions, fostering a relaxed and immersive experience in nature. Additionally, the spaciousness of the farm means groups don’t feel crowded, providing personal space and freedom to explore together comfortably. This connection to the Texas hill country character, along with easy access for city dwellers, makes Tri-Star Farm an ideal venue for outdoor group meetups centered on adventure, nature, and camaraderie.
Why do reviews and ratings highlight Tri-Star Farm as a recommended meetup spot?
Tri-Star Farm’s rating of 4.4 stars from 55 reviews reflects consistent satisfaction and appreciation from visitors, a strong indicator that it meets the expectations of those looking to host group outings. Many reviews praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff who are polite, professional, and responsive to riders’ needs, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. The horses receive positive mentions for their calm demeanor and suitability for all riders, which helps newcomers feel at ease. Visitors often highlight the beauty of the trails and the overall quality of the riding experience, describing it as peaceful, fun, and memorable. Events such as birthday celebrations receive favorable notes, emphasizing how the farm can cater to special occasions for groups. While a very small number of reviews mention safety concerns, the majority underscore well-managed rides and attentive supervision. This feedback underpins Tri-Star Farm’s reputation as a safe, enjoyable, and reliable place for friends and families to gather and share a unique outdoor experience.
In summary, Tri-Star Farm offers a compelling blend of scenic beauty, expert horsemanship, and accommodating services that make it an ideal venue for meetups with friends and family. From nostalgic trail rides across picturesque Texas hill country to personalized lessons and lively celebrations, it delivers a diverse range of activities that foster connection, fun, and lasting memories.