If you’ve ever dreamed of standing next to a horse so majestic it stops you in your tracks, the Ultimate Clydesdale Experience at JFP Equine is your chance to make it happen.

We’re talking a private, two-hour, fully hands-on encounter with some of the most famous—and lovable—Clydesdales around.

But what really happens when you book an Ultimate Clydesdale Experience? Let’s walk you through it.

1. A Warm Welcome (and a Little Horse Talk)

When you arrive at our family-run barn in Waterloo, Illinois—just 35 minutes from downtown St. Louis—you’re greeted by a representative of the Pooles, a lifelong draft horse family with quite the story to tell.
You’ll hear about the background, the history of the farm, and where this love of Clydesdales came from. This isn’t a lecture—it’s a fun, relaxed conversation that sets the stage for what’s next.

2. Get To Know The BIG Boys

Step inside the barn and meet the stars of the show—Ace, Fred and Flame are the mainstays along with a rotating supporting cast. Each has a distinct personality: Ace is the legend, Fred is a certified snuggler and FLAME is just, well, HUGE! You’ll get right up close, looking into eyes the size of teacups and feeling the sheer presence of a 2,000 pound+ horse standing in front of you.

3. Hands-On Grooming

Ever wondered what it takes to keep a Clydesdale looking like a million bucks? We’ll hand you a brush and show you how to groom—yes, this means running your hands along that silky mane and brushing those signature feathered legs. It’s calming, it’s bonding, and it’s a memory you won’t forget.

4. Photo Opportunities That Are Anything But Ordinary

Forget the standard “smile in front of a fence” shot. We’ll help you set up epic, frame-worthy photos—whether you want to stand proudly next to a Clydesdale, capture a nose-to-camera close-up, or get that Instagram-perfect mane-blowing-in-the-wind moment.

5. Feeding Time—From the Ground Up

This isn’t just tossing hay—you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how we prepare a Clydesdale’s meal.
We’ll show you how to mix their grain and supplements in the feed bins, explain what goes into their diet, and talk about how nutrition keeps these gentle giants healthy and happy. It’s a part of the barn routine most visitors never get to see, and it gives you a whole new appreciation for the care they require.

6. Private, Intimate, and Just for You

One of the things people love most? It’s private. No crowds, no rushing, no waiting for your turn. It’s just you in a small group (no more than four at a time), your guide, and our horses. Private, unmatched Clydesdale time that you simply won’t find anywhere else.

Who Should Book the Ultimate Clydesdale Experience?

Animal lovers who want more than a quick pet at a fair.
Families looking for a unique bonding activity.
Couples after an unforgettable date idea.
Travelers adding a one-of-a-kind stop to their St. Louis trip.

Ready to Experience the Magic for Yourself?

There’s something unforgettable about standing in the quiet of the barn, hearing the soft snorts and deep breaths (and yes, sometimes even ‘other’ noises as well) of a Clydesdale right beside you. You’ll leave with hay on your boots, a camera full of memories, and a story you’ll be telling for years.

Fall is calling, and so are our JFP Equine Clydesdales. Don’t just admire them from a distance—come feel the ground shake, run your hands through that feathered mane, and step into their world for a couple of unforgettable hours.

Spots for the Ultimate Clydesdale Experience are very limited and tend to book fast—especially in the crisp, golden glow of autumn.

How to Book Your Ultimate Clydesdale Experience

We run Ultimate Clydesdale Experiences year-round at JFP Equine, but fall is one of the most magical seasons—cool air, golden pastures, and stunning autumn light for your photos.
Sessions are very limited and tend to fill quickly, so book now to lock in your preferred date.

📅 Click here for additional detail and a list of upcoming sessions.
📍 Located in Waterloo, IL — minutes from St. Louis, MO

What Really Happens at an Ultimate Clydesdale Experience (Near St. Louis, MO)