Ocala: Gypsy Vanner Horse Farm Tour & Meet the Horses

Summary

Walk among Gypsy Vanner horses in Ocala’s mossy paddocks

You’ll meet America’s first Gypsy Vanner horses up close on this Ocala farm tour, hear lively stories from the breed’s founder himself, stroll under ancient oaks draped with Spanish moss, and snap photos with these gentle giants. The laughter, soft noses, and sunlit paddocks will linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to laugh so much at a horse farm, but Dennis—he’s the guy who actually started the whole Gypsy Vanner thing in America—had us grinning from minute one. The way he tells stories, you can almost smell the campfire and hear wagon wheels somewhere in your head. He explained how these horses came over from British Gypsies (I’d never even heard of “Vanners” before), and Erin chimed in with little details about their personalities. There was this moment when one stallion snorted right as Dennis made a joke about horse mustaches—timing was perfect, honestly.

Walking out into the paddocks, I kept brushing against this soft Spanish moss hanging off ancient oaks. It felt like we’d stepped into some old Southern painting, except there were these ridiculously fluffy horses everywhere—foals too, with legs too long for their bodies and that sweet grassy smell on their coats. Kids in our group squealed every time a mare came close enough to nuzzle their hands. Even if you’re not a “horse person,” it’s hard not to get pulled in by those big eyes and shaggy manes. The guide pointed out how each horse had its own markings and quirks—one kept following me like I had snacks hidden somewhere (I didn’t!).

We ended up taking photos with one of the big stallions—his mane was wild, almost like he’d styled it for the occasion. I’m still not sure who looked more awkward in my picture: me or him. The gift shop at the end had all sorts of things with horses on them, but honestly I just stood outside for a bit longer, watching sunlight flicker through the trees while a couple of foals chased each other around. That’s what stuck with me—the quiet after all those stories and hoofbeats, just standing there breathing it all in.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Gypsy Vanner Horse Farm Tour

• Educational talk by Dennis Thompson
• Meet Gypsy Vanner stallion
• Walk among horse paddocks
• See stallions, mares, and foals
• Photo opportunity with stallion
• Visit Gypsy Gold gift shop

Top questions

How long does the Gypsy Gold Horse Farm Tour last?

The tour lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes total.

Is this farm tour suitable for young children?

Yes, children are welcome and kids 5 and under join free if accompanied by an adult.

Will we meet actual Gypsy Vanner horses?

Yes, you’ll meet several Gypsy Vanner stallions, mares, and foals during your walk through the paddocks.

Who leads the educational part of the tour?

Dennis Thompson—the founder of America’s Gypsy Vanner breed—leads the main talk along with Erin.

Are there photo opportunities with the horses?

Yes, there is a photo opportunity included with one of the Gypsy Vanner stallions.

Is walking involved during this tour?

Yes, you’ll walk among paddocks lined with ancient oaks; prams or strollers are allowed for infants or small children.

Can service animals come on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed at Gypsy Gold Horse Farm.

Is lunch or food included on this day trip?

No meals are included; only the walking tour and photo opportunity are part of your visit.

What’s included

Your visit includes a guided walking tour through horse-filled paddocks beneath old oaks draped in Spanish moss. You’ll get an educational talk from Dennis Thompson (the breed’s founder), have a chance to meet mares, stallions, and foals up close—and snap a photo with one of their famous Gypsy Vanner horses before browsing their gift shop at your own pace.