Tampa Bay
Jim Harden

Jim Harden

Sep 21, 2026

25 Comments

Horsepower For Kids 

20th Annual Fundraiser

 

Featuring an animal petting area and pony rides and Magic Shows for visitors

20th Annual Fall Fundraiser 

every weekend in October 

 

Families seeking a truly memorable day outdoors in Tampa Bay have the perfect destination with an animal petting area, exciting pony rides, and all the charm of a flourishing family farm.

 

Just outside the bustle of downtown Tampa, visitors will find an oasis where kids can interact with gentle creatures and grownups can relax under shady oaks.

 

The animal petting area is the heart of the experience, introducing children to goats, sheep, rabbits, and even friendly donkeys in a safe, supervised setting.

 

Staff prioritize the wellbeing of both guests and animals, ensuring everyone gets a chance to connect while preserving the sanctuary feel of the space.

 

For little cowboys and cowgirls, pony rides offer an exhilarating taste of adventure and an unforgettable photo opportunity.

 

These rides often inspire a lifelong affection for horses, and are carefully managed for safety and fun.

 

Beyond the animals, the property boasts playgrounds, a whimsical western town, and shady resting spots where parents can let their worries drift away.

 

Recent weekends have seen enthusiastic crowds at special seasonal festivals, with families flocking for fall crafts, autumn hayrides, and fair-style snacks.

 

Many locals say this family farm has become a tradition—a place they return to for birthdays, school trips, or any sunny Sunday.

 

The farm's dedication to serving all families, regardless of background, has earned it a cherished place in the community.

 

Strict rules prevent outside animals from visiting to ensure the safety of the resident furry friends, and guests are always reminded to wear sturdy shoes while exploring the grounds.

 

Rainy weather may cause unexpected closures, but updates are shared quickly so visitors can plan around Tampa's sudden afternoon showers.

 

For those in search of wholesome fun and genuine connections, the animal petting area and pony rides at this beloved family farm create magical experiences right in the heart of Tampa Bay.

 

20th Annual Fall Fundraiser every weekend in October, Will also have magic shows at 1pm and 3 pm and balloon twisting as you leave the park by Jim Harden BalloonTwistingAndMagic.com

 

Website:

horsepowerforkids.com

 

 

Sponsored By:

 

25 Comments

Join the conversation

  • RG
    Russell Grant· Sep 27, 10:41 PM

    I wish they allowed dogs but totally get why they don’t. Keeps things safer for the critters.

  • A
    AmySingleton84· Sep 26, 10:35 PM

    Love seeing places like this stick around for 20 years. That’s a big deal in Tampa Bay.

  • FR
    Felix Roque· Sep 26, 8:10 PM

    Do they accept cards or is it cash only for entry and snacks?

  • SB
    Shelley B.· Sep 25, 9:02 PM

    Hoping to see more animals this year. Last time the donkeys were the friendliest.

  • TD
    Tracy Durham· Sep 24, 2:09 AM

    Glad this isn’t too far from downtown. Feels like a mini vacation but only a short drive.

  • PA
    Pauline A.· Sep 22, 11:34 PM

    If anyone’s thinking about birthdays here, it’s a great spot. We did my son’s party last fall and everyone loved it.

  • NW
    Nicholas W.· Sep 22, 11:09 PM

    Big fan of any event that combines pumpkin stuff with fair snacks. We’ll be there!

  • M
    miguel.jones· Sep 22, 8:31 PM

    Are the crafts suited for all ages or mostly young kids? Looking for something for my older daughter too.

  • DC
    D. Chin· Sep 22, 8:22 PM

    Do they have spots to sit down? Grandpa needs shade and a bench after all the excitement.

  • VB
    Vicki Brenner· Sep 22, 3:14 PM

    My grandson was obsessed with the rabbits last year. Animal area is perfect for little ones.

  • DY
    Debbie Y.· Sep 21, 11:55 PM

    So glad they communicate closures quickly with rain. Tampa weather can be so unpredictable.

  • MT
    Marisol T.· Sep 21, 9:42 PM

    I grew up coming here for school trips. Glad it’s still a Tampa tradition!

  • SK
    Seth K.· Sep 21, 9:37 PM

    We went during the festival last weekend and it was packed! Go early for shorter pony ride lines.

  • J
    janet.carver7· Sep 21, 9:28 PM

    Is there a place for strollers or is it more walking on grass/dirt? Trying to plan ahead.

  • EB
    Erin B.· Sep 21, 8:06 PM

    Always appreciate when they actually put the animals’ safety first. Makes a big difference.

  • CN
    Chris Nolan· Sep 21, 7:49 PM

    Be prepared for mud if it rains. We went last year and the kids still had fun but we got messy!

  • JV
    Juniper V.· Sep 21, 7:05 PM

    Does anyone know if they have food trucks or should we bring snacks for picky eaters?

  • SH
    Sammy Hollis· Sep 21, 6:57 PM

    Pony rides! Brings back memories from my own childhood. My twins will be thrilled.

  • H
    HelenZ44· Sep 21, 5:03 PM

    I love places that make an effort to be welcoming to all families. Thanks for mentioning that part.

  • TN
    Taylor Nguyen· Sep 21, 4:56 PM

    Balloon twisting on the way out is a cute touch. Does anyone know if parking fills up quickly?

  • OD
    Omar Diaz· Sep 21, 4:52 PM

    We used to come every October when my kids were little! Happy to see they keep improving things each year.

  • BP
    Brian Pate· Sep 21, 4:46 PM

    Never been before but the idea of a western town and magic shows has me sold. Do you have to buy tickets ahead?

  • CS
    Caroline S.· Sep 21, 3:44 PM

    The fall crafts and hayrides are always my favorite part of these. Planning to go this year.

  • LR
    Linda R.· Sep 21, 2:49 PM

    Love that they have rules about outside animals, that’s really smart. We’ll bring sturdy shoes!

  • JM
    Jeff M.· Sep 21, 2:43 PM

    Sounds like a great spot for kids. My daughter loves goats so we’ll definitely try to make it out there.

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