Nestled in the rolling hills of Boonville, Missouri, Warm Springs Ranch serves as the official breeding facility for the iconic Budweiser Clydesdales. Spanning over 300 acres, this state-of-the-art ranch offers visitors an intimate glimpse into the lives of these majestic horses, from their birth to their preparation for public appearances.
🐴 A Glimpse Inside the Ranch
Warm Springs Ranch is home to more than 100 Clydesdales, including stallions, mares, foals, and geldings. The centerpiece of the ranch is a 25,000-square-foot breeding barn equipped with a veterinary lab, ensuring top-notch care for the horses. The facility also boasts ten pastures with customized shelters, allowing the Clydesdales ample space to roam and graze.
Visitors can explore the barn to see the handcrafted harnesses made from solid brass and patent leather, each weighing approximately 130 pounds. The ranch also houses a 1903 Studebaker-built beer wagon and the luxury transport trailers used to ferry the Clydesdales across the country.
🐾 Meet the Gentle Giants
The Clydesdales are known for their impressive stature, with each horse standing at least 18 hands high and weighing up to 2,300 pounds. Their distinctive features include a bay coat, white blaze, and feathered hooves. Each horse is given a short name like Duke, Mark, or Bud, making it easier for handlers to communicate with them during performances.
The ranch also introduces visitors to the newest members of the Budweiser Clydesdale family. For instance, Mac, born in 2016, quickly became a fan favorite. These foals are raised with meticulous care, ensuring they uphold the legacy of their predecessors.
🎉 Tours and Experiences
Warm Springs Ranch offers a variety of tours and experiences:
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Guided Walking Tours: Available from April through October, these tours provide insights into the history, breeding program, and training of the Clydesdales.
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Cruising with the Clydesdales: A unique adventure through the pastures aboard a specially crafted people mover.
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Holidays with the Clydesdales: During the holiday season, the ranch transforms into a winter wonderland, featuring festive decorations, photo opportunities with the Clydesdales, and communal fire pits with s’mores.
Whether you’re a horse enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a memorable family outing, Warm Springs Ranch provides an unforgettable experience that celebrates the grandeur of the Budweiser Clydesdales.
