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Here are some highlights of experiencing Florida horse country: SOUTH FLORIDA'S HORSES Fort Lauderdale/Miami area Who knew glitzy South Florida had a streak of the old west? Truth is, in these parts there are plenty of horse farms with riding lessons trail rides and summer riding camps for kids. Take a break from the South Beach scene and saddle up at American Horse Trails, Bar-B-Ranch or White Star Farms for a tranquil trail ride with a tropical flair. If you're a cowboy or cowgirl at heart, check out the Davie Pro Rodeo in the quaint western-themed town of Davie. If you prefer to play the ponies, South Florida horse racing tracks include Gulfstream, Hialeah Park, and Pompano Park. Tampa Bay Downs is in southwest Florida. Palm Beach County For a glimpse of high fashion, clinking champagne glasses, and a rousing match of high-goal polo, head to the International Polo Club Palm Beach, home to the largest field in the U.S. and some of the most prestigious polo tournaments in the world. The season, which begins in January and extends through spring, brings in enthusiasts who love to see and be seen as much as they adore the sport. Do it high-style with champagne brunch in the pavilion starting at $100, grab a seat in the grandstands, or come comfy and hang out with the field-side tailgaters with tickets starting at $10. Wellington's international equestrian community also features 57 miles of horse trails. NORTHEAST FLORIDA'S HORSES St. Augustine Clip-clop back in time in a relaxing horse-drawn carriage tour of the nation's oldest city from Country Carriages. Hear stories about the new world's 1565 Spanish settlement as you meander through narrow red brick-lined streets past historic sites. Take a romantic carriage ride for two or gather family and friends for a group ride for up to 12. If you want to take the reins yourself, Country Carriages also offers a one-hour guided horseback ride along the shore of St. Augustine's Vilano Beach. Amelia Island It's a bucket list item for some – riding horseback down the beach enjoying a gentle tropical breeze amid crashing waves. Guided tours on Amelia Island's white sand beaches offered by Kelly Seahorse Ranch, Happy Trails Walking Horses, and Amelia Horseback Riding can accommodate riders of all skill levels, and some accept children as young as six. There are many opportunitities for horseback riding in Amelia Island. If you have a taste for something more historic, enjoy a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride in the Victorian seaport of downtown Fernandina Beach, home to pirates and scallywags in the 1800s. Learn more at Amelia Island Carriages.