Things to Do in Ocala, Florida
World-class equestrian events, championship golf, natural springs, and a vibrant downtown -- discover everything the Horse Capital of the World has to offer.
Living the Ocala Lifestyle
Ocala is far more than a place to own a home -- it is a place to live fully. Set in the rolling hills of Marion County, surrounded by natural springs, ancient forests, and hundreds of horse farms, Ocala offers a quality of life that few Florida communities can match.
Residents enjoy year-round access to world-class equestrian venues, championship golf courses, crystal-clear spring-fed rivers, and a growing downtown dining and cultural scene. Whether your idea of a perfect day involves riding, a round of golf, paddling a spring run, or exploring art galleries, Ocala delivers.
Below is a comprehensive guide to the best activities, attractions, dining, and recreation the area has to offer -- the reasons so many people are choosing to call Ocala home.
Equestrian & Horse Activities
Ocala is the Horse Capital of the World, home to more thoroughbred farms and equestrian venues than virtually anywhere else on the planet. Whether you compete, train, or simply admire these magnificent animals, the equestrian scene here is unmatched.
World Equestrian Center
A world-class, year-round equestrian competition venue spanning over 378 acres with multiple climate-controlled arenas, luxury on-site accommodations at the Equestrian Hotel, fine dining, and a vibrant retail village. Hosts hunter/jumper, dressage, and breed-specific competitions attracting riders from around the globe.
Visit WebsiteHITS Ocala Winter Circuit
One of the premier hunter/jumper competition circuits in the country, running each winter from January through March. The sprawling facility features multiple grand prix rings, schooling areas, and vendor villages, drawing top riders and trainers to Marion County each season.
Visit WebsiteRoberts Arena at HITS
A dedicated dressage and eventing arena within the HITS complex, hosting United States Dressage Federation events and combined training competitions. The facility features premium footing and ample warm-up space for competitors at every level.
Florida Horse Park
A 500-acre multi-discipline equestrian facility operated by the State of Florida. Hosts eventing, combined driving, endurance, and polo competitions. The park features a cross-country course, stadium jumping arena, dressage rings, and miles of trails through scenic Florida landscape.
Visit WebsiteGypsy Gold Horse Farm
The founding farm for Gypsy Vanner horses in North America, Gypsy Gold offers guided farm tours where visitors can meet these stunning, feather-footed horses up close. A unique Ocala experience that showcases the area's deep connection to the equine world.
Visit WebsiteGolf Courses & Country Clubs
Ocala's golf scene rivals communities twice its size. From exclusive private clubs with championship layouts to well-maintained public courses, golfers of every skill level will find a course that fits their game and lifestyle.
Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club
An exclusive, guard-gated club featuring a Raymond Floyd-designed championship course with replicas of famous holes from Augusta National, St. Andrews, and other iconic venues. The 1,200-acre community also offers equestrian facilities, tennis, spa, and fine dining.
Visit WebsiteCandler Hills Golf Club
A Gordon Lewis-designed, 18-hole championship course set within the On Top of the World community. Known for its beautifully manicured fairways, challenging layout, and welcoming atmosphere, Candler Hills is one of the top-rated public-access courses in the region.
Visit WebsiteCountry Club of Ocala
A well-established private club offering an 18-hole championship golf course along with tennis courts, a fitness center, swimming pool, and an active social calendar. The club has been a centerpiece of Ocala's social and recreational life for decades.
Visit WebsiteOcala Palms Golf & Country Club
A semi-private, 18-hole championship course designed by Thomas Walker, known for its wide fairways, pristine greens, and friendly atmosphere. The club offers a full-service pro shop, practice facilities, and a grill room overlooking the 18th green.
Stone Creek Golf Club
A scenic 18-hole course nestled within the Stone Creek community, designed to integrate with the natural landscape of rolling hills and mature trees. The course offers a challenging yet enjoyable round for players of all skill levels.
Juliette Falls Golf Club
A stunning 18-hole course designed by the team behind some of Florida's most acclaimed layouts. Set amid dramatic elevation changes rare for Central Florida, Juliette Falls offers panoramic views, strategic bunkering, and immaculate conditioning.
Outdoor Recreation & Nature
Surrounded by natural springs, ancient forests, and miles of trails, Ocala offers some of the finest outdoor recreation in the southeastern United States. From world-class mountain biking to crystal-clear spring-fed rivers, nature is always within reach.
Silver Springs State Park
Home to the largest artesian spring formation in the world, Silver Springs has been a Florida landmark for over a century. Take the famous glass-bottom boat tours to see the crystal-clear spring waters, kayak the Silver River, hike nature trails, or spot native wildlife including manatees, deer, and wild monkeys.
Visit WebsiteRainbow Springs State Park
Florida's fourth-largest spring produces over 400 million gallons of crystal-clear water daily. The park features a man-made waterfall, natural swimming area, tubing runs along the Rainbow River, kayaking, and well-maintained hiking trails through lush hardwood hammocks and gardens.
Visit WebsiteOcala National Forest
The southernmost forest in the continental United States, spanning nearly 390,000 acres of sand pine scrub, hardwood hammocks, and freshwater springs. Offers hundreds of miles of hiking trails including the Florida Trail, primitive and developed camping, world-class bass fishing, and swimming at natural springs like Alexander Springs and Juniper Springs.
Visit WebsiteSantos Mountain Bike Trails
One of the top mountain biking destinations in the eastern United States, Santos features over 85 miles of singletrack trails ranging from beginner-friendly paths to expert-level technical terrain. The Vortex is among the most celebrated trail systems in Florida. Open year-round with free parking and trailhead facilities.
Visit WebsiteSholom Park
A 44-acre formal garden and walking park designed as a place of peace and reflection. Features a labyrinth, amphitheater, shaded walking paths through diverse garden rooms, a Koi pond, and sculptures. Free admission and open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Visit WebsiteDining & Fine Dining
Ocala's dining scene has matured into a diverse culinary landscape that caters to discerning palates. From locally sourced farm-to-table restaurants in the historic downtown square to award-winning wineries, there is no shortage of exceptional places to enjoy a meal.
The Ivy on the Square
A refined, upscale dining experience located on Ocala's historic downtown square. The Ivy is known for its creative American cuisine, craft cocktails, and elegant yet comfortable atmosphere. A favorite for special occasions and business dinners alike.
Brick City Southern Kitchen
A beloved downtown staple serving elevated Southern comfort food in a warm, inviting setting. Known for locally sourced ingredients, creative interpretations of classic Southern dishes, and a well-curated bourbon and cocktail list.
La Cuisine Restaurant
A French-inspired fine dining restaurant located in the heart of downtown Ocala. La Cuisine offers a seasonally driven menu with classic French techniques applied to fresh, local ingredients. The intimate setting and exceptional wine list make it a top choice for a memorable evening out.
Katya Vineyards
A boutique winery and restaurant set on a scenic estate just minutes from downtown Ocala. Katya Vineyards produces its own wines on-site and pairs them with a globally inspired menu in a charming vineyard setting. Live music, wine tastings, and private events round out the experience.
Visit WebsiteCuvee Wine & Bistro
An intimate wine bar and bistro offering an expertly curated wine list alongside a menu of small plates, charcuterie, and seasonal entrees. The relaxed ambiance and knowledgeable staff make Cuvee a favorite for wine enthusiasts and foodies seeking a refined yet casual dining experience.
Shopping & Entertainment
From a charming historic downtown filled with independent shops and galleries to cultural institutions and performing arts venues, Ocala offers a rich mix of shopping and entertainment options for residents and visitors.
Ocala Downtown Square
The heart of Ocala's cultural and social scene, the historic downtown square features a walkable collection of boutique shops, art galleries, antique stores, restaurants, and cafes. The square hosts regular community events including First Friday Art Walks, farmer's markets, and seasonal festivals.
Circle Square Commons
A vibrant town center within the On Top of the World community, offering a curated selection of shops, restaurants, medical offices, and entertainment venues. The center hosts a popular outdoor concert series, farmer's markets, and community events throughout the year.
Visit WebsitePaddock Mall
Marion County's primary enclosed shopping center, anchored by major national retailers and complemented by a variety of specialty shops, dining options, and a movie theater. A convenient one-stop destination for everyday shopping needs.
Appleton Museum of Art
A College of Central Florida cultural institution housing an impressive permanent collection of European, American, Asian, and contemporary art. The museum is set in a striking Italian marble building and regularly hosts traveling exhibitions, lectures, and educational programs.
Visit WebsiteReilly Arts Center
Ocala's premier performing arts venue, offering a year-round calendar of concerts, theater productions, comedy shows, and community events. The beautifully restored historic building provides an intimate setting for live performances and cultural programming.
Visit WebsiteMarion Theatre
A beautifully restored 1940s-era movie palace in the heart of downtown Ocala. Now operated as a performing arts venue, the Marion Theatre hosts live music, theatrical performances, film screenings, and community events in a setting rich with Old Florida charm.
Health & Wellness
Ocala offers excellent healthcare infrastructure and a growing wellness scene, making it an appealing place to live for those who value quality medical care alongside an active, health-conscious lifestyle.
AdventHealth Ocala
A full-service hospital and part of the nationally recognized AdventHealth network. The facility offers comprehensive medical services including cardiology, orthopedics, oncology, women's health, and an emergency department. Known for patient-centered care and modern facilities.
Visit WebsiteOcala Regional Medical Center
A 292-bed acute care hospital providing a wide range of medical and surgical services. Specialties include heart and vascular care, orthopedics, neurosciences, and a Level II trauma center serving Marion County and the surrounding region.
Visit WebsiteSholom Park (Wellness & Meditation)
Beyond its scenic gardens, Sholom Park offers wellness programming including yoga sessions, guided meditation walks, and nature-based mindfulness activities. The serene, landscaped environment makes it an ideal setting for stress relief and personal renewal.
Visit WebsiteFamily Activities
Ocala is a family-friendly destination with a wide range of activities that appeal to all ages. From hands-on science exhibits and legendary car museums to natural spring swimming holes, families will find plenty to explore and enjoy together.
Silver Springs Glass Bottom Boats
A quintessential Ocala family experience. Board a glass-bottom boat for a narrated tour over the crystal-clear waters of Silver Springs, where you can see fish, turtles, and the spring vents up to 80 feet below the surface. Educational and awe-inspiring for children and adults alike.
Visit WebsiteDon Garlits Museum of Drag Racing
A world-renowned automotive museum founded by legendary drag racer Don 'Big Daddy' Garlits. Houses over 300 vehicles including historic dragsters, classic cars, and racing memorabilia. A must-visit for car enthusiasts and families looking for a unique Ocala experience.
Visit WebsiteDiscovery Center of Ocala
An interactive science and learning center designed for children and families. Features hands-on exhibits covering natural science, technology, and the arts, along with educational programming and special events throughout the year.
Visit WebsiteCanyons Zip Line & Adventure Park
An outdoor adventure park featuring zip lines soaring over a stunning former limestone quarry, horseback trail rides, kayaking, gem mining, and a variety of aerial challenges. A thrilling family-friendly destination set in a unique geological landscape.
Visit WebsiteAlexander Springs Recreation Area
A first-magnitude spring within the Ocala National Forest, Alexander Springs maintains a constant 72-degree temperature year-round. The crystal-clear swimming area is perfect for families, and the surrounding trails and canoe launch provide additional outdoor activities.
Visit WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions About Ocala
Ocala offers a wide range of activities including world-class equestrian events at the World Equestrian Center and HITS, championship golf courses, natural spring parks like Silver Springs and Rainbow Springs, mountain biking at Santos Trails, fine dining downtown, cultural attractions such as the Appleton Museum of Art, and family-friendly destinations like the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing and Canyons Zip Line Park.
Ocala is surrounded by exceptional outdoor recreation. Silver Springs State Park offers glass-bottom boat tours and kayaking. Rainbow Springs State Park features tubing and swimming in crystal-clear spring water. The Ocala National Forest provides nearly 390,000 acres of hiking, camping, fishing, and spring swimming. Santos Mountain Bike Trails offers over 85 miles of world-class singletrack. Sholom Park provides peaceful gardens and walking paths.
As the Horse Capital of the World, Ocala offers numerous equestrian experiences. The World Equestrian Center hosts year-round competitions and offers riding opportunities. The Florida Horse Park features trails and multi-discipline facilities. Gypsy Gold Horse Farm provides guided farm tours. Many private farms in the area also offer trail rides and riding lessons for all skill levels.
Ocala's dining scene includes several standout restaurants. The Ivy on the Square and La Cuisine offer upscale fine dining on the historic downtown square. Brick City Southern Kitchen serves elevated Southern cuisine. Katya Vineyards pairs estate-grown wines with a globally inspired menu in a vineyard setting. Cuvee Wine & Bistro is a favorite among wine enthusiasts for its curated list and seasonal small plates.
Ocala is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in Florida, particularly for those who value an active outdoor lifestyle, equestrian culture, and a lower cost of living compared to coastal cities. The area offers excellent healthcare, a growing dining and cultural scene, proximity to both coasts, no state income tax, and a welcoming community. Luxury home buyers are drawn to the area for its equestrian estates, golf course communities, and natural beauty.
Families in Ocala enjoy Silver Springs glass-bottom boat tours, the Discovery Center of Ocala for hands-on science exhibits, the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park, and swimming at natural springs like Alexander Springs in the Ocala National Forest. Sholom Park offers free admission to its peaceful gardens, and the downtown square hosts regular community events and farmer's markets.
Explore More of Ocala
Learn more about the communities, lifestyles, and real estate opportunities that make Ocala one of Florida's most desirable places to live.
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Whether you are drawn to the equestrian lifestyle, championship golf, or the natural beauty of Marion County, we can help you find the perfect property.