When hearing the words “horse” and “Disney” spoken in the same sentence, many might immediately think of Cinderella’s Golden Carousel, the beautiful vintage attraction that was rescued and restored to delight millions of visitors in the Magic Kingdom.  But horses play numerous roles at Walt Disney World; home to many different breeds from miniature ponies to Clydesdales. 

All horses live at Tri-Circle-D Ranch located in Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort; those “commuting to work” are moved in trailers to various locations throughout the parks where they have a variety of jobs.  Horse-drawn vehicles include carriages, coaches, wagons, and sleighs.  Dressed in polished gold and black tack, a magnificent horse pulls the trolley down Main Street U.S.A. providing transportation for guests as well as the Dapper Dans and the Main Street Trolley Dancers. 

The parades feature a number of equine performers including the matched white ponies that pull Cinderella’s coach.  Guests spending time around Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa might also spot these same ponies escorting a bride to the Wedding Pavilion. 

Back at the Tri-Circle-D, pony rides and gently-paced trail rides offer a more hands-on experience.  There are group wagon rides available as well as private horse-drawn carriage rides in several locations, and even a festive “sleigh” ride from the Wilderness Lodge during the holiday season. 

But perhaps the most unusual horse of all is found at The Haunted Mansion.

Now that’s a horse of a different color!