The finest cowboys are those who truly understand their equine better half, which is why centaurs make great cowboys. Establish a kindred horse-human connection with today's Groupon: for $20, you get a one-hour horseback ride in either Wunderlich Park in Woodside or Ed Levin Park in Milpitas at Chaparral (a $40 value).

Chaparral offers horseback adventures to equine experts and novices alike on its colorful and docile team of steeds, each with its own quirky personality. In Wunderlich Park, mustang-maneuverers weave through the shade of quieting redwoods on well-maintained paths lined with moss-carpeted stones, fragrant fallen logs, and discarded Theodore Roosevelt mannequins. Saddle-seaters galloping through Ed Levin Park can marvel at the rolling green hills and gentle grasses of the peaceful Northern-Californian scenery.

Each ride is led by an experienced and knowledgeable staff member, who will point out the surrounding flora and fauna and answer any questions the horse-top curious may have about each horse, from its preferred treat to its favorite Billy Crystal film.