R&R Ranch — Hotel in Brandon

We were looking for something different for my twin granddaughters' sixth birthday that was nature related and would be a good experience for all the kids because we were tired of the "get em in get em out" approach of most birthday places like Chuckie Cheese (not to mention the food is terrible). In a stroke of luck, we stumbled upon R&R Ranch. What a delightful experience it was to have their party there. The place is very clean and the animals well cared for and friendly. We had a spacious picnic area with tables and lots of shade, playground equipment and a bounce house. The kids took turns in the petting area (that is well supervised and comes with a hand wash station for clean up afterward) and riding a pony, and we cooked out on their very nice propane grill. The only problem was that the kids were so busy having fun, we couldn't get them to eat (except for the cake). The staff here is extremely friendly and helpful. I can't say enough good stuff about this place beyond this review and the fact that we'll be...

My husband and I took our toddler boys today for a family outing. My 3 year old, special needs, son was excited about the pony rides. He rode one time and patiently waited for a second turn. During that time no one was behind him and the owner did not inform us that he couldn’t go again. When it was my son’s turn he went up the stairs and the owner denied him a second ride and focused on 2 older children who walked up. My son was crushed. Thankfully he did not have a meltdown and our day remained calm. The owner told me that he had other events for the birthday party he had to get to. We were not there for the party. The time he took to tell my son no and break his heart he could have walked him around. My son did not understand why he couldn’t go and another boy did. This was completely uncalled for and nonsense. I understand there are other priorities and rules but they need to be made clear to all visitors. Especially, parents who have children with special needs. Very disappointed after all of the positive...

My husband and I came here for my birthday in January and loved it. The horses are wonderfully behaved, our guide was kind and always checked with us before trotting or going over a bridge or soft spot in the ground. The only thing I was disappointed with is that they did not allow me to ride in an English saddle as advertised on their website, despite having 15 years of experience showing hunter/jumper, because they were afraid the horse would trip and I would lose my balance. Aside from that, it was great and a perfect first time for my husband. I really appreciated the 5-minute mini-lesson they give you in an arena. They taught my husband the basics and let me ride around with my horse (Scooby!) just to have a little fun. The trail was well-shaded and cool and the horses' tack is removed as soon as the ride is over, which is a good indication to me that they care about the horses. I would...