Let me preface this review by stating that I would never hold a working farm to the same level of customer service expectations for hosting an event/party as I would a resort or theme park…These kinds of events are usually designed to be supplemental income to help offset the expenses of running a farm. I get that…And as such, we completely expected a rustic setting and were ready to accommodate any inconveniences because that’s what a gracious guest does in these situations. However, Farmer Lucy was in a sour mood from the start. We all have bad days, but when you take that out on your customers, you immediately lose that customer’s business plus every single friend and family member they talk to…Needless to say, if you have a scene in front of an entire birthday party, you’re all but confirming the demise of your business. Especially without any form of an apology or acknowledgment of poor planning on their part. I strongly suggest anyone considering Happy Trails for a children’s birthday party please look elsewhere. This is not the appropriate setting or ownership for any such service.We arrived 5 minutes early and were scolded in the parking area, where Lucy told us, “You’re too early. I said 9:30 and I meant it…” storming off after we greeted her with a friendly smile and hello. We were about ready to leave then and there, but decided to stick it out for our three year old who was so excited for a farm birthday. We were told where to put our things and waited until 10:00 patiently, with no further instruction or interaction…No idea of where a restroom was we could use or what the plan was for the horses, who I will admit at least looked happy and well cared for. At 10:05 Lucy told us rather rudely that she still saw guests arriving and wouldn’t start until everyone had arrived. We tried to push the reset button, introducing ourselves and the birthday boy, to which we received an eye roll and more attitude, at which point we promptly gathered our things and took our party somewhere a little more happy. Don’t come here with your kids, folks. There are other issues going on here that need to be resolved immediately if they expect to remain in business. Happy trails these are not.
We had hoped to celebrate our grandson’s birthday at Happy Trails, but the woman who was supposed to be our hostess was rude, obnoxious, mean, and was scary not only to the kids, but adults too —-so we left and went to a much more pleasant and inviting environment & had a great gathering. Would not recommend this place unless they send staff to customer service training!
Sharing in hopes that another family doesn’t have a ruined farm party. Farmer Lucy had several screaming outbursts at my family prior to the party starting. She was very rude, condescending, and unwelcoming. We were so shocked and uncomfortable that we packed the children and guests up and left immediately. This is not a safe place to bring children and guests.
Ive never been to this ranch before but went today for a birthday party. My kids had an amazing experience as did I. I look forward to going back again. The atmosphere is very relaxing and welcoming.
I had a super experience this morning. This is a very beautiful area!
We were invited to a birthday party. You only get a two hour window to have this party. The kids got to ride once in a circle if the child hesitated they missed out because of the time crunch. The hayride is only done once and not enough room for everyone. I think its a great idea for a party but its not enough time and the kids need more time with the horses and the hayride.
My daughter loves riding here! The instructor, Lucy is wonderful and the horses are top notch. Happy Trails is a must if you are interested in western riding lessons or boarding your own horse.
Real nice people!
Great place to stay! Skip the hotels and scoot off the beaten path to this homestead. James and his wife have a beautiful ranch tucked away in the middle of everything. A long lane with Spanish moss soaked trees line the way to this little piece of horse country paradise. The guest house is very well maintained, beds were extremely comfortable and the home was equipped with all the necessary kitchenware, linens, umbrellas, etc. And the beautiful horse stalls are literally located under the same roof!!Open your back door and you find classy horse stalls with pretty, clean and extremely happy horses!! Our boys woke up to the sound of neighing..it was wonderful! Feed them carrots, groom them, and saddle up for a ride! No horse riding experience necessary, reliable and friendly supervision comes with stay!And don’t forget to check out the hen house for some fresh eggs! I highly recommend Happy Trails. James is a true blue patriot, businessman and cowboy. He was a fascinating host which only added to our great experience.We will definitely be back!
I had my sons 2nd birthday party with 10kids and it was just perfect!( ages between 2-10) Kids loved every thing of it!Staffs were so nice too!
Happy Trails is a great place to gain the experience of horse riding. All of their horses are sweet and I highly recommend you to go and see it for yourselves.