Explore a Few of the Best Things to Do in Ocala
Ocala, Florida, offers the relaxed atmosphere of a smaller city with an impressive variety of things to see and do. Surrounded by rolling pastures, ancient oak trees and natural springs, the area is best known as the Horse Capital of the World. However, Ocala is also home to outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, family-friendly activities, local restaurants and distinctive shopping destinations.
Whether you are visiting for the weekend, exploring your new hometown or considering building a home in Marion County, this guide will help you discover some of the best things to do in Ocala, Florida.
Experience Ocala’s Horse Country
Ocala’s equestrian heritage is evident throughout Marion County, from its picturesque horse farms to its internationally recognized competition venues.
Visit the World Equestrian Center
The World Equestrian Center is one of the area’s most impressive destinations. The expansive property hosts equestrian competitions featuring a variety of disciplines, along with canine shows, expos and other activities.
You do not need to be an experienced equestrian to enjoy a visit. Many competitions are open to spectators, giving visitors an opportunity to see accomplished horses and riders in action. The property also features restaurants, shops, luxury accommodations and beautifully maintained outdoor spaces.
Go Horseback Riding
For a more hands-on experience, explore Marion County from the saddle. Local outfitters offer guided trail rides for different skill levels, including opportunities for beginners who have little or no previous riding experience. A guided ride through oak hammocks and Florida woodlands provides a memorable way to experience the natural landscape while participating in the activity for which Ocala is best known.
Explore Ocala’s Outdoor Attractions
With natural springs, forests, gardens and an extensive trail system nearby, Ocala makes it easy to spend time outside throughout much of the year.
See Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs State Park is one of the most recognizable attractions in the Ocala area. Its historic glass-bottom boats provide a clear view beneath the surface of the spring, where passengers may see fish, aquatic vegetation and submerged cultural artifacts.
There is much more to the park than its famous boats. Visitors can walk the nature trails, explore the gardens, enjoy a picnic or paddle along the Silver River. Canoe and kayak rentals are available, making the park a good choice for either a relaxing morning or a more active day outdoors.
Discover the Ocala National Forest
A short drive from the city center brings you to the Ocala National Forest, where visitors can hike, camp, fish, paddle and view wildlife. The forest contains numerous recreation areas, lakes and natural springs, including Salt Springs.
Because the forest is so large, choose your destination and check its operating status before leaving home. Individual trails, campgrounds and recreation areas may have different hours, fees or temporary closures.
Stroll Through Sholom Park
Sholom Park offers a peaceful setting for a walk among native plants, ornamental gardens, mature trees and open meadows. Its paved paths and benches make it a pleasant place to slow down, enjoy the landscape and spend a quiet morning or afternoon outside.
Play a Round of Golf
Central Florida’s mild winters allow golfers to enjoy the sport during much of the year. Marion County has numerous courses, ranging from approachable neighborhood layouts to luxury golf communities. Golfers can choose from several courses throughout the county. Tee-time availability and guest policies vary, particularly at private clubs.
Find Things to Do in Ocala with Kids
Ocala offers plenty of ways for families to learn, play and spend time together.
Explore the Discovery Center
Located at Tuscawilla Park, the Discovery Center is Ocala’s children’s science center. Its rotating exhibits, hands-on activities and STEAM-focused programs encourage children to explore new subjects through play. Because exhibits change periodically, families can return for a different experience throughout the year.
Spend the Day at Tuscawilla Park
After visiting the Discovery Center, families can enjoy the surrounding Tuscawilla Park. The park offers open green space and recreational amenities close to downtown Ocala, making it a convenient destination for an afternoon outdoors. There’s a playground, catch-and-release fishing area, outdoor art exhibits, and dining at Midtown Station.
Plan an Indoor Play Day
Florida’s summer heat and afternoon storms sometimes call for indoor entertainment. Ocala has bowling centers, skating facilities, trampoline parks, escape rooms and other family attractions that provide an easy backup plan when outdoor activities are not practical.
Enjoy Indoor Activities, Art and Culture
Ocala’s museums and performance venues offer engaging options for rainy days, hot afternoons and evenings out.
Visit the Appleton Museum of Art
The Appleton Museum of Art is home to a collection of more than 24,000 pieces, along with rotating exhibitions and educational programs. Its collections span cultures, artistic traditions and historical periods, providing plenty to explore during a visit.
Attend a Performance at the Reilly Arts Center
The Reilly Arts Center presents concerts, comedy, orchestral performances and other live entertainment. It is also home to the Ocala Symphony Orchestra. Programming changes throughout the year, so review the current schedule to find a performance that piques your interest.
See a Movie or Live Show at the Marion Theatre
Located downtown, the historic Marion Theatre presents films, comedy and live entertainment. Its combination of vintage character and updated programming makes it a distinctive alternative to a traditional multiplex.
Find Free and Affordable Things to Do
Enjoying Ocala does not have to require an expensive itinerary. Several local destinations offer free admission or low-cost recreation.
Explore Fort King National Historic Landmark
Fort King National Historic Landmark played an important role in the Second Seminole War and in the early development of Ocala and Marion County. Today, visitors can see a reconstruction of the fort, follow interpretive trails and explore the surrounding property. It is an interesting destination for anyone who wants to learn more about the area’s history while enjoying a walk outside.
View & Shop Community Artwork
Turn a walk through Ocala into a self-guided art tour by looking for murals and sculptures around the city. This free activity can be combined with a visit to downtown shops or lunch at a local restaurant.
The city’s First Friday Art Walk also brings artists, performers and visitors downtown on select evenings during its seasonal schedule. It is an enjoyable way to experience local creativity while exploring the city center.
Visit a Local Park or Trail
Ocala offers several free places to walk, exercise or enjoy a picnic outdoors. The Jervey Gantt Recreation Complex features a walking trail, outdoor exercise equipment, playgrounds, athletic courts and picnic areas across more than 60 acres.
For a shorter nature-focused outing, visit the Environmental Play Trail at Heritage Nature Conservancy. This one-third-mile path includes nature education stations that make the walk especially engaging for families. You can find it and other options through the City of Ocala’s walking trails guide.
Take a Day Trip Near Ocala
Ocala’s central location makes it a convenient starting point for exploring other destinations throughout Marion County.
Swim or Paddle at Rainbow Springs State Park
Located in Dunnellon, Rainbow Springs State Park is known for its clear water and lush surroundings. Depending on the season and the park area you visit, activities may include swimming, paddling, tubing, hiking and picnicking. The headsprings, tubing entrance and campground are in separate locations, so confirm which entrance you need before beginning your trip.
Spend Time at Lake Weir
Lake Weir is a popular destination for boating, fishing and relaxing near the water. The surrounding communities also offer casual restaurants and gathering places that make the area well-suited to an unhurried day trip.
Step Back in Time in McIntosh
Travel north of Ocala to explore McIntosh, a small Marion County town known for its quiet streets, mature live oaks and historic architecture. The McIntosh Historic District includes 68 sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offering visitors a glimpse of Old Florida’s character and history.
Take a leisurely drive or walk through town to admire its Victorian-era homes and peaceful surroundings. You can also visit the nearby Orange Lake Overlook, where a nature trail leads toward scenic views of Orange Lake. McIntosh is an appealing destination for anyone who enjoys history, architecture and the unhurried atmosphere of a small Florida town.
Discover What Makes Ocala a Wonderful Place to Live
The variety of things to do in Ocala is one of the many reasons people choose to call Marion County home. Residents can enjoy natural springs, equestrian destinations, cultural attractions, local dining and peaceful outdoor spaces without giving up the warmth and character of a close-knit community.
If you are considering making Ocala your home, Secure Built can help you create a residence designed around the way you want to live. Explore our customizable home models, modify an existing floorplan or work with our team to design a fully custom home for your property.