Last Updated on April 11, 2024
Are you looking for fun things to do in Ocala? Well, we’ve got you covered.
Ocala was once considered a dusty Central Florida cow town. In reality, Ocala is an adventurer’s paradise with rolling hills, horse farms, the Ocala National Forest, Silver Springs State Park, and more.
It may not fit with your idea of a “typical” Florida vacation spot since it’s not lined with beaches and palm trees. However, Ocala is full of surprises; it’s a charming destination packed with natural beauty and fun.
Oh-cala! Get to Know Ocala
Northwest of Orlando and south of Gainesville, Ocala is surrounded by acres and acres of fenced-lined horse pastures. In fact Ocala is known as the “horse capital of the world.”
More than 700 horse farms dot the Marion County landscape. They range from small two-acre farms to 4,500-acre farms.
This area is also home to the Ocala National Forest, the second-largest national forest in the U.S.
The Ocala National Forest features hiking, biking, kayaking, crystal clear springs, lakes, and rivers.
Not far from the horse farms and the pine forests, you’ll also find one of Florida’s oldest tourist attractions, Silver Springs State Park.
These amenities along with easy access and reasonably priced accommodations and restaurants, make Ocala an ideal getaway.
Table of contents
Silver Springs State Park
Launch your visit with a nostalgic tour of “old Florida” by cruising in a vintage glass-bottom boat at the Silver Springs State Park.
The boat captain touts the history and ecological features as visitors peer down at the bubbly springs and wonders below.
Fish and turtles glide through the seagrass while an occasional alligator, or manatee, swims below.
Originally settled by Native Americans, the area has been excavated by archeologists who discovered artifacts.
Some date back to 10,000 B.C., and others span history to the opening of the tourist attraction.
It opened in the 1820s when paddlewheel steamboats brought tourists to the park.
The river is lined with giant overhanging oak trees draped in moss, tall cypress trees, and park gardens.
It once created a perfect backdrop for old Hollywood films such as Tarzan and Creature from the Black Lagoon.
Silver Springs State Park Address: 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488
Silver River Museum
If you want to discover more about the area, its history, and geology, stop by the nearby Silver River Museum.
The museum is at the Silver River State Park. It features exhibits, displays, and a Florida Cracker Homestead (open on weekends).
Stroll through the exhibits demonstrating the wonder of the Florida aquifer, fossil displays including a huge mammoth skeleton.
You can also see an ancient dugout canoe and historical retrospectives that chronicle the earliest human settlements up to the present day.
Outside, wander through an 1800s rural frontier setting and Florida Cracker Homestead. It has a schoolhouse, church, blacksmith shop, smokehouse, and cracker homes.
Silver River Museum Address: 1445 NE 58th Ave, Ocala, FL 34470
Ocala National Forest and Florida Springs
The Ocala National Forest is known as “the big scrub” by virtue of its dense Florida sand pine scrub. It is considered one of the most endangered ecosystems in Florida.
In December, certain areas within the Ocala National Forest allow people to cut down Christmas trees.
To learn more, check out: Cut Down Your Own Florida Christmas Tree from the Ocala National Forest.
The forest is bordered by the Ocklawaha River on the west and the St. Johns River on the east.
The forest provides year-round recreation with nearly 400,000 acres, 600 lakes, rivers, and three first-magnitude springs.
If you seek adventure by canoe or kayak, you are in for a wonderful paddle through spectacular scenery.
This Forest is also considered one of the state’s best destinations for hiking. In fact, hikers can trek 73 miles along the Florida Trail through the stunning Ocala wilderness.
The Forest’s diverse ecosystems offer unique habitats for various plants and animals. Threatened species such as the manatee, black bear, the Florida Scrub-Jay, and the gopher tortoise call it home.
Did you know Ocala National Forest has the largest concentration of black bears in the U.S.?
Four major springs, referred to as the “jewels of the Ocala National Forest,” are the Juniper, Alexander, Silver Glen, and Salt Springs.
They offer refreshing retreats during the summer when swimmers bathe in the cool 72-degree water.
Ocala National Forest Address: FL-40, Silver Springs, FL 34488
Juniper Springs
This Florida treasure is located in the Juniper Springs Wilderness area.
The vibrant turquoise blue headspring is surrounded by a swimming hole, historic Millhouse, and picnic area.
To appreciate this beauty, paddle a kayak or canoe down the Juniper Springs Run. This spring is a slow-moving, winding creek that will gently carry you through breathtaking scenery.
You’ll paddle through twists and turns surrounded by pristine and lush forested hammocks. You’ll glide under fallen trees and past fields of colorful wildflowers.
Shafts of sunlight will shine through overhanging branches illuminating crystal clear water and a shallow sandy bottom below.
This one-way, four-hour trip will then wind through the park’s Prairie Wilderness Area eventually flowing to the Wayside Park.
Juniper Springs Address: 26701 E Highway 40, Silver Springs, FL 34488
Alexander Springs
A shallow pool and sandy beach surround the crystal blue Alexander Spring making it popular for family swimming and diving.
The seven-mile Alexander Creek flows from the spring to the St. John’s River with easy access for boating.
Adjacent to the spring, the Timucuan Trail is ideal for a short hike surrounded by semi-tropical vegetation.
Interpretive signs share information about the indigenous Timucuan culture that once inhabited the area.
They also identify live vegetation used by the natives in their diet.
Alexander Springs Address: 49525 County Rd 445, Altoona, FL 32702
Salt Springs
Salt Springs was believed to have medicinal value by early tourists.
It is fed by nine vertical fissures rising out of the earth and was named for its slight salinity from various minerals and sodium salts.
A boat ramp and marina provide easy access to Lake George, the second-largest lake in Florida.
The lake features prime fishing, a spacious campground, and RV hookups.
Salt Springs Address: Salt Springs, Florida 32134
Silver Glen Springs
Available for day use, this vibrant turquoise spring contrasts with the surrounding green oaks, cedar, and pine trees.
Connected to Lake George, it attracts a mix of fresh and saltwater fish.
During the winter manatees often congregate to Silver Glen Springs seeking respite from the cooler St. John’s River.
Silver Glen Springs Address: 5271 N Highway 19, Fort McCoy, FL 32134
Looking to learn even more about Florida’s natural springs? Check out the Florida Natural Waterparks.
Ocala Parks and Trails
There are many hiking trails in the Ocala Forest, but two provide contrasting views of the forest’s diverse beauty.
The Yearling Trail
Across from the entrance to Silver Glen Springs is The Yearling Trail. It is situated in the midst of thousands of acres of scrub. It once provided inspiration for writer Marjorie Kinnan Rawling’s 1938 novel, The Yearling.
The Pulitzer Prize-winning story follows a real-life Florida family who homesteaded in this scrub in the 1870s.
Hikers can see remnants of the homestead while enjoying the scrub terrain, pristine pine, and hardwood forests.
Yearling Trail Address: FL-19, Fort McCoy, FL 32134
St. Francis Trail
The St. Francis Trail is located in the southeastern corner of the Ocala National Forest.
It passes through six distinct Florida ecosystems including oak hammocks, swamps, river floodplains, hardwood forests, scrub, and pine Flatwoods.
Keep an eye out for pileated woodpeckers, scrub jays, red-tailed hawks, and red-winged blackbirds.
The trail eventually leads to the remains of a turn-of-the-century port town on the St. John River floodplain.
In the late 1800s, the town of St. Francis was a thriving port town where steamboats traveled from Jacksonville along with St. Johns.
St. Francis Trail Address: 45914-45978 River Forest Blvd, DeLand, FL 32720
Sholom Park
Sholom Park is a peaceful park featuring a babbling brook, various flowers and plants, and wildlife like birds, owls, and bunnies.
Sholom Park Address: 7110 SW 80th Ave, Ocala, FL 34481
Walker Park
A family-friendly park ideal for picnics, casual strolls, and community gatherings.
Walker Park Address: 1 Park, Ocala, FL 34471
Santos – Belleview Trail
Santos Trails offers miles of mountain bike trails suitable for different skill levels.
The Santos – Belleview Trail Address: 3080 SE 80th St, Ocala, FL 34480
Florida Trail Land Bridge Trailhead
Florida Trail Land Bridge Trailhead offers biking and hiking trails through beautiful landscapes and is a piece of local history.
The Florida Trail Land Bridge Trailhead Address: 11100 SW 16th Ave, Ocala, FL 34476
Ocala Wetland Recharge Park
Ocala Wetland Recharge Park is a natural sanctuary featuring diverse wildlife and walkways.
Ocala Wetland Recharge Park Address: 2105 NW 21st St, Ocala, FL 34475
Baseline Road Trailhead
Baseline Road Trailhead is a peaceful spot for jogging, disc golf, and picnics.
The Baseline Road Trailhead Address: 4255 SE 58th Ave, Ocala, FL 34472
Horses in Ocala
Ocala is Florida’s Horse Country. A drive through this world-class horse capital quickly helps you understand what drives this region.
Some say it’s the nutrient-rich Florida limestone soil that creates healthier grass for stronger horses.
Others believe it’s Ocala’s equestrian history and close-knit tradition that has nurtured a legacy of winners.
During your visit, you’re sure to learn more about horses and the “behind the fence” industry that drives it.
Ride the Greenway
The 110-mile corridor of the Florida Greenway extends across Florida from the Gulf of Mexico to the St. John’s River.
It runs through Marion County and is next to Ocala’s 500-acre Florida Horse Park.
The Park sits directly next to the Greenway and is a major destination for equestrian riding and major events.
Inside the Horse Park, BG Trail Rides provides horses to help you saddle up and enjoy a riding experience.
You can ride along the Greenway, and take in scenic views while breathing in the fresh air. Meander through miles of scrub, under shady trees, through green hammocks and oak forests.
If you prefer hiking or bike riding, this is your place.
BG Trail Rides offers a reasonably priced basic one-hour guided trail ride. You can also opt for the custom trail ride.
Give them a call at 352-245-7779.
World Equestrian Center
The World Equestrian Center is a hub for equestrian enthusiasts. It also hosts diverse events like Ocala Comic Con.
World Equestrian Center Address: 1750 NW 80th Ave, Ocala, FL 34482
Farm Tours of Ocala
For another unique “behind the gates” experience, try Farm Tours of Ocala.
Owner Karen Grimes is a local expert and industry insider. She personally shuttles guests in her comfortable van while touring them through horse country.
She visits thoroughbred racehorse farms, sophisticated equine breeding farms, and event facilities focusing on sport horses.
Farm Tours of Ocala Address: 8946 SW 8th St, Ocala, FL 34481
Hope Hall Farm
If you only have time to visit one local farm, consider a stop at Hope Hall Farm.
Here, German owners, Traudel Bongers and Thomas Stenebach train horses and riders for worldwide competitions.
Majestic horses gallop through manicured pastures surrounded by shady oaks.
This facility also serves as an equine quarantine facility for those animals entering the United States.
Hope Hall also serves as a Bed & Breakfast Inn. To arrange a visit or plan a stay, call ahead: (352) 591-9623.
Hope Hall Farm Address: 13010 NW 90th Ave, Reddick, FL 32686
Ocala Museums and Art Exhibits
Appleton Museum of Art
Appleton Museum of Art displays works from its permanent collection and offers a variety of art experiences.
Appleton Museum of Art Address: 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL 34470
Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing
This museum traces the evolution of drag racing through the collection of “Big Daddy” Don Garlits, a legend in the sport.
Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing Address: 13700 SW 16th Ave, Ocala, FL 34473
Marion Cultural Alliance at Brick City Center for the Arts
The Marion Cultural Alliance at Brick City Center for the Arts showcases local artists’ work and hosts various events and workshops.
Marion Cultural Alliance at Brick City Center for the Arts Address: 23 SW Broadway St, Ocala, FL 34471
Reilly Arts Center
The Reilly Arts Center is a popular venue for live music and cultural performances.
Address of Reilly Arts Center : 500 NE 9th St, Ocala, FL 34470
Ocala’s Historic District
The Historic District in Ocala is a journey through time with historic buildings, architecture, and a variety of dining options.
Ocala’s Historic District Address: Historic District, Ocala, FL
Ocala Downtown Square
The Downtown Square in Ocala is a historic area developed in 1847 with various shops, restaurants, and events.
Ocala Downtown Square Address: Ocala, FL 34470
Places to Stay in Ocala
Equus Inn
The Equus Inn in Ocala is a great place to stay if you want to be close to it all.
Not only do they have amazing rooms, a great pool, and fun amenities, but they’re close to the World Equestrian Center.
Equus Inn has large luxurious rooms that let you enjoy luxury on a budget.
Equus Inn Address: 3434 SW College Rd, Ocala, FL 34474
More Places to Stay in Ocala
Holiday Inn Conference Center Ocala
The Holiday Inn Conference Center Ocala is a full-service hotel located in the heart of Ocala, Florida.
Guests can enjoy complimentary WiFi, free parking, and easy access to downtown Ocala and the surrounding area.
Holiday Inn Conference Center Ocala Address: 3600 SW 38th Ave, Ocala, FL 34474
Courtyard Ocala
The Courtyard by Marriott in Ocala is a 4-star hotel located near the intersection of I-75 and Highway 200.
It features 112 spacious guest rooms with modern amenities, an outdoor pool and whirlpool, a 24-hour fitness center, free high-speed WiFi, and The Bistro, an onsite dining option.
Guest rooms also feature microwaves, mini-fridges, ergonomic workspaces, and signature Marriott bedding.
Address: 3712 SW 38th Ave, Ocala, FL 34474
Places to Dine
Horse and Hounds Restaurant
The Horse and Hounds Restaurant is where Ocala locals love to lunch and we easily could see why.
Popular menu items include Spinach Salad, BBQ Ribs (cooked in citrus mojo), and Shepard’s Pie.
Whatever you order you’ll be happy with while you enjoy the ambiance and equestrian decor.
Don’t miss their Monday Special: $40 for 2 Prime Rib dinners, plus sides.
Horse and Hounds Restaurant Address: 6998 US Hwy 27, Ocala, FL 34482
Big Lee’s BBQ
The Big Lee’s BBQ food trucks can be found in a couple of different locations around Ocala.
The food is amazing and worth the wait if there is a line.
Days and hours vary, so follow @mybigleesbbq on Facebook and Instagram for daily location updates and times.
Big Lee’s BBQ Address: 2611 SW 19th Avenue Rd #100, Ocala, FL 34471
More Places to Dine in Ocala
Mojo’s-Food. Music. Soul. (Mojo Grill & Catering Company)
Mojo Grill & Catering Company is a funky, music-themed eatery and bar that features great American-Mexican food.
They have lots of vegetarian options, too.
Mojo’s-Food. Music. Soul. (Mojo Grill & Catering Company) Address: 2015 SW 17th St, Ocala, FL 34471
Braised Onion Restaurant
Known for its casual space with vibrant artwork, Braised Onion serves eclectic comfort food.
Don’t miss the meatloaf and chicken pot pie.
Braised Onion Restaurant Address: 754 NE 25th Ave, Ocala, FL 34470
Stella’s Modern Pantry
Stella’s is an old-fashioned, upscale cafe with a great selection of sandwiches, salads, desserts, gourmet goods, and boutique wines.
Stella’s Modern Pantry Address: 20 SW Broadway St, Ocala, FL 34471
La Hacienda Restaurant and Supermarket
La Hacienda is a truly authentic Mexican restaurant and supermarket serving a wide variety of Mexican dishes in a casual setting. The fajitas are amazing!
La Hacienda Restaurant and Supermarket Address: 4185 FL-40, Ocala, FL 34482
Mark’s Prime Steakhouse and Seafood
This fancy fine-dining seafood and steakhouse is very popular among locals.
If you’re looking for a special night out, this is the place to go.
Mark’s Prime Steakhouse & Seafood Address: 30 S Magnolia Ave, Ocala, FL 34471
Ivy on The Square
Ivy on The Square serves Southern-inspired cuisine in a rustic circa-1890 building.
Ivy on The Square Address: 53 S Magnolia Ave, Ocala, FL 34471
Katya Vineyards
Katya Vineyards offers a unique dining experience with a variety of international wines and gourmet dishes.
Katya Vineyards Address: 101 E Silver Springs Blvd Ste. 102, Ocala, FL 34470
Canyons Zip Line and Canopy Tours
Canyons Zip Line and Canopy Tours feature zip lines, rope bridges, and rappelling for an adventurous experience.
Canyons Zip Line and Canopy Tours Address: 8045 NW Gainesville Rd, Ocala, FL 34475
Go Back in Time at the Ocala Drive-In
This drive-in movie theater in Florida shows two first-run films on two screens.
Ocala patrons tune in to a local FM radio station for clear movie sound.
The Ocala Drive-In is open every night and shows two films for the price of one.
Gates open at 6 pm. The ticket prices are $6.00 for adults (13+), $3.00 for children (6-12) and under 5 are free.
You also have to pay $10 for a concession voucher as part of your admission.
Ocala Drive-In Address: 4850 S Pine Ave, Ocala, FL 34480
Looking for other fun things to do not far from Ocala? Check out: