Meet and Greet

Get up close with our horses — no riding experience required.

Come to the ranch, meet our herd, and spend time with horses that have been changing lives for decades. The Meet and Greet is a guided group experience designed for first-time visitors, curious families, school groups, and anyone who has ever wanted to connect with a horse in a real, unhurried setting.

A large group of visitors gathers around a black horse in the Ivey Ranch arena during a Meet and Greet experience in Oceanside, CA.
A large group of visitors gathers around a black horse in the Ivey Ranch arena during a Meet and Greet experience in Oceanside, CA.

What to Expect

Your group will receive a guided tour of our 12-acre facility, where you’ll meet our therapy herd and hear some of their most memorable stories. Then you’ll spend 20–25 minutes grooming, petting, and taking pictures with a horse selected just for you — a hands-on experience that’s perfect for first-timers and horse lovers alike.

This isn’t a drop-in visit. Every Meet and Greet is led by knowledgeable Ivey Ranch staff who take the time to make sure everyone — including the nervous ones — feels comfortable and welcome.

Choose Your Experience

Whether you’re looking for a quick visit or a full afternoon at the ranch, we have an option to fit your group.

Traditional Meet & Greet Meet & Greet with Lunch
Cost $20 per person $45 per person
Group Size 2 – 20 participants 20 – 50 participants
Duration 1 hour 2 to 2.5 hours
Ages 4 and up* 4 and up*
What's Included Facility tour, grooming, petting & photos with the horses Everything in the Traditional experience, plus ranch-style lunch with full table service
Traditional Meet & Greet
Cost $20 per person
Group Size 2 – 20 participants
Duration 1 hour
Ages 4 and up*
What's Included Facility tour, grooming, petting & photos with the horses
Meet & Greet with Lunch
Cost $45 per person
Group Size 20 – 50 participants
Duration 2 to 2.5 hours
Ages 4 and up*
What's Included Everything in the Traditional experience, plus ranch-style lunch with full table service

*Children ages 0–3 are welcome but must remain in a backpack carrier, stroller, or held in-hand at all times.

Lunch Menu: BBQ pulled pork sandwich, coleslaw, and baked beans. Veggie burger available for vegetarians (coleslaw and baked beans are also vegetarian-friendly). Refreshments included.

Families and children groom horses at the tie posts during a Meet and Greet session at Ivey Ranch in Oceanside, CA.

What to Know Before You Come

  • Attire: All participants must wear long pants and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. No sandals, flip-flops, or shorts.
  • Helmets: Safety helmets are provided during the experience.
  • Scheduling: All sessions are by appointment only. Because our horses also serve in our therapeutic programs, we recommend reaching out well in advance to secure your preferred date.

Plan Your Visit

Sessions book up — especially on weekends. Reach out today to check availability and schedule a ranch experience your group won’t forget.

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