As you traverse the New York State Fair, you will likely see some horses. There are State Police officers on horseback, handlers washing, grooming or leading horses and, of course, horses being ridden or shown in the Coliseum and 4-H rings.

But for the past few years, visitors were often banned from entering the horse barn, mainly for safety reasons, leaving enthusiasts looking for a chance to get close enough to pat a Morgan, appaloosa or Clydesdale frustrated. MARE 17The remedy had been a visit to the World of Horses, a favorite exhibit of State Fair Hound. But this year the Fair’s center for good equine public relations will not return as part of the livestock community.

Horse lovers will no doubt miss the tent’s friendly equines and  informative, approachable staff. However, Acting Director Troy Waffner told State Fair hound that this year visitors will be welcomed into the main horse barn at scheduled times. The venue will be less cozy, but it will include far more horses of many different breeds.

Check the schedule for open times and make a visit to take some photos and maybe pat a horse or two. The 4-H rings and barns, located at the western end of the grounds, and the exercise ring next to the Coliseum also have plenty of horses around, sometimes including the adorable minis.