Experience the Grace of Horses. Rediscover the Joy of the Ride.
Experience the beauty of Maine’s countryside with a relaxing tour and learning experience with our Draft horses. Acadia Horse Center offers unforgettable experiences just minutes from downtown Ellsworth – perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape.
Welcome to Acadia Horse Center
Our goal at Acadia Horse Center is to allow guests to see more of the behind the scenes and in depth display of what these big horses were meant to do, what it’s like getting the horses ready, harnessing and care. All while enjoying some quiet time in the barn without the hustle and bustle of the outside world. You’ll be able to watch the bond that is formed with their handlers while learning more about each horse’s personality and how each horse is treated as an individual. You’ll learn little tidbits about horses and why they act the way they do and how best to be safe around them. We believe that even though they can’t talk there are many ways to be able to communicate with them and learn from them. There may also be an opportunity for some hands-on grooming and meeting the horses for those who are interested. The session may be followed by a quick wagon ride depending on weather/conditions. We want everyone to leave feeling more relaxed, to have an understanding of how all of us used to do things with horses and a greater appreciation for these remarkable animals.
Gentle Giants
These aren’t your “normal” sized horses you’re used to seeing or being around – these guys are the big guys. Draft horses are often referred to as “Gentle Giants” for their calm and easy going nature. Draft horses are bigger, heavier horses who were originally bred for hauling heavy freight and/or working on farms. They’re not bred to go fast or be super agile (although some are) like their smaller counterparts but slow and steady. Our horses here at Acadia Horse Center have worked with us for a range of 4-16 years pulling carriages on the historic carriage roads built by John Rockefeller Jr. in Acadia National Park. That was already a semi-retirement for most of them who before we owned them worked by farming and pulling heavy. Now they get to fully retire by getting to have a little exercise (which is great for them) and getting to meet more people one on one (which is their favorite). The amount of wisdom and the stories they could tell would blow your mind but we will do our best to tell some of their stories.
Our Services
Wagon Rides
Our rides are designed to help you connect with nature, history and the quiet strength of our beloved horses. We offer a short wagon ride through the beautiful forest that offers timeless, unforgettable experience.
Education & Hands on Learning
Discover the beauty of horsemanship through immersive, hands-on experiences designed for learners of all ages. Whether you’re a student, a lifelong horse enthusiast, or simply curious, our programs offer a chance to connect directly with our gentle giants. Participants can learn about grooming, feeding, harnessing, and the day-to-day care that goes into working with draft horses. These sessions are ideal for school groups, homeschoolers, 4-H clubs, and anyone interested in gaining a deeper appreciation for the role horses have played throughout history — and continue to play today.
Demonstrations
Watch our experienced team and horses in action during live demonstrations that highlight traditional techniques, carriage driving, team coordination, and more. These events are educational, engaging, and a powerful way to witness the trust and communication that exists between human and horse. Perfect for public events, private groups, or those who simply want to learn by observing, our demonstrations are both inspiring and informative — a unique window into a timeless craft.
Maine Amish Emporium
Coming Soon
Contact
carriagesofacadia@gmail.com
354 Bucksport Rd, Ellsworth, Maine 04605
(207) 606-5111
Hours
Open 7 days a week 9-5.