Shady Acres Rodeo — Local services in St. Pauls

The owners/management seem like very nice folks. The family-freindly vibe was very nice. And watching the more experienced riders was fun.

But for a one-off experience I can't recommend it. I went for a 60th birthday ride today but kept getting bumped by the regulars for the sign-up and equipment. I'd be standing by the door at the tower and guys were in and out constantly while I stood there lost. When I finally got to the practice pen i'd be lined up by a bull and even helped put the rope around one, but one of the regulars would just walk up and tell the set-up guy "I'm riding (bull's name)". Three times I was standing by ready to go and got turffed out. Guys were riding multiple times while us clueless newbs stood around looking stupid. Which isnt difficult in my case, already. 😆 The regular guy who was supposed to be looking after our group of three was nowhere to be found. No help there.

The fourth time I was standing by a bull the ring guy said that bull was too much for a beginner. I get it. I appreciate that. He said they'd put me on a sedate longhorn. But then everything stopped again. Not sure why. Nothing moving. Could be the weather that was moving in. The third guy in my initial group still hadn't ridden either and didn't know where our 'guide' was. When I left he was sitting by himself as the regulars kept riding. Hope he got to ride before the storm hit.

For a one-off special occasion I'd suggest somewhere else. Way too disorganized for one-offs. There's no list, no order of ride. You pay your money then just elbow your way to a bull eventually. And you'll have to ask the regulars several questions before you even get to the bulls and begin the Darwinist fight to actually do a practice ride. Great if you're a regular but if not ... good luck. 🤣 Never got a ride.

If you're young and think you'd like to do it every week I'm sure it's awesome. The lady at the gate was very apologetic for the confusion.

But for a special occasion treat try a tandem skydive or bungee jumping, instead. Your blood pressure will thank you. 😆

I still want to ride a bull before I die so I'm calling a place in New Bern for details. At least now I know what questions to ask to be sure someone is running the...

Very laid back. Family oriented. Everyone is welcome! I love going to the rodeos every Sunday evening to watch the bulls buck. That starts at 5pm. Watching the donkeys run around, the horses run the fence line and playing with the foal are just a few things I love about this place. It's a must to come visit...

I've been going here since the start of 2015 and my boyfriend has been going out there b for all but about 4 years. We both absolutely adore the place and the people that surround it! The atmosphere is amazing, they place music and there are multiple spots to hang out! Definitely the right way to spend...