There’s snow on the ground, a chill in the air, and you’re looking for some family time. Well, like the song says: It’s lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you. The winter season is a great time to get out and about on an open sleigh. Here are three spots to check out.
If Mother Nature is providing lots of snow, Forest View Farms is the place to go. With 6 inches of packed snow on the ground, the stable’s Belgian and Percheron horses take groups on a 25-minute ride. Dress extra-warmly and bring blankets to cuddle with the ones you love. For an additional $25, you can have a post-ride campfire (marshmallows are on you, though!). Call to make reservations. $40 for 2-4 people; $10 per person for 5-7 people or 8-12 people; prices are subject to change. 16717 S. Lockwood, Tinley Park; (708) 560-0306, fvfarms.com
From December to February, Danada Equestrian Center‘s draft horses take passengers for a 15-minute ride through the surrounding DuPage Forest Preserve. Even if there’s less than 4 inches of snow, plan for a ride-the horses pull a hay wagon on wheels instead of a sleigh on runners. And be sure to stick around to warm yourself with a complimentary hot drink at the fire. $5, $2 kids 5-12, free kids under 5. Noon-2 p.m. daily Dec. 26-30; noon-3 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays in January and February. 3S507 Naperville Road, Wheaton; (630) 668-6012, dupageforest.com.
For the full winter wonderland experience, head to Harvard. With just one inch of snow, draft horses re-create a holiday card, pulling luxury sleighs on a half-hour tour that includes a scavenger hunt, classic Christmas music and a jingle bell souvenir. Plus, enjoy a petting farm, miniature donkey rides, sledding hill, fireplace in the Candy Cane Cottage and holiday lights when you disembark. $19, $10 kids. 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends, Dec. 1-Feb. 1. $109 private rides are offered all winter. 10009 Lilja Road, Harvard; (815) 600-8066, gosleigh.com
