A Day at Ryers Farm for Aged Equines and Marsh Creek State Park

 By Nate Feldman

Today, I spent my day at two amazing places in Chester County, Pennsylvania.  First, I visited Ryers Farm for Aged Equines.  This farm dates back to the 1800s and is the home of retired and or abused horses, donkeys, and mules.  

It is open every day from 10 AM-4 PM for visitors to come and see the animals, either in their stalls or out in the fields.  While you are there, for $3, you are able to purchase a bag with food that you can feed the animals with your own hands.  In addition, there is a nice gift shop with a lot of memorabilia you can take home with you that helps support the farm and its mission.

Ryers Farm is a fabulous place for people who love horses and donkeys.  The animals are friendly, and the ability to interact with them is wonderful.  If you are interested, you are able to sponsor one of the animals, which gives you an opportunity to interact with the horse or donkey on a one-on-one basis.

Avery, one of the horses at Ryers'

After spending time at Ryers and grabbing some coffee and a brownie at the Collective Coffee and Bakery in the Ludwig's Village Market on route 100, it was on to a brief stop at Marsh Creek State Park.  

This park has a large lake and many wooded areas with trails people can hike or jog on.  There are also many recreational activities, such as a large swimming pool open during the summer months, areas for cookouts, and a place where you can rent boats and kayaks to go out on the lake.

I arrived about a half-hour before sunset, so I was able to get a nice view as it was a clear day.

If you are spending a day in Chester County, I strongly recommend both places as a way to enjoy your time with friends and family and to interact with animals and nature.  

Sunset at Marsh Creek State Park