Ocala is a beautiful city in Marion County, Central Florida with plenty of activities to keep you busy. It’s been dubbed the “horse capital of the world” and you’re soon going to see why! Whether you’re a local or just visiting, we guarantee you’ll find something fun to do! So pack your bags and get ready for some fun in the sun! Here are things to do in Ocala.
Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs State Park is home to a variety of plant and animal life. The park comprises more than 4,000 acres of land, providing ample opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystem. Visitors can hike through the forest, swim in the crystal clear springs, or take a boat tour of the Silver River. The park also offers educational programs for children and adults, making it a great place to learn about the local flora and fauna. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon of relaxation or an adventure-filled day, Silver Springs State Park has something for you.
Florida Horse Park
If you’re a horse lover, you’ll definitely want to check out Florida Horse Park. They offer trail rides, lessons, and more! Florida Horse Park is a great place to spend a day if you’re looking for fun and different things to do in Ocala. It’s a beautiful park with plenty of trees and greenery, and it’s home to a variety of horses, ponies, and many horseriding events. You can watch horse shows, go on guided trail rides, or even take a lesson or two. There’s something for everyone at Florida Horse Park, whether you’re an experienced rider or you’ve never been on a horse before.
World Equestrian Center
The center hosts some of the biggest horse shows and events in the world, including the World Equestrian Games, the FEI World Cup, and the Olympic Games. The center features two indoor arenas, outdoor riding trails, and a variety of shops and restaurants. Visitors can participate in dressage and jumping competitions, watch horse shows, or take lessons from experienced trainers. The center is also home to a variety of horses, from gentle ponies to majestic thoroughbreds.
Rainbow River
Rainbow River is one of the most popular things to do in Ocala, and it’s no wonder why. The river is crystal clear and features a beautiful array of colors. Visitors can swim, tube, canoe and kayak in the river, or simply take in the stunning views from the shore. The best time to visit Rainbow River is in the summer. However, even in the winter months, the river is worth a visit – especially if you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the rainbow-hued waterfalls that flow into the river. No matter when you decide to visit, Rainbow River is sure to delight and amaze.
Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest is a nature lover’s paradise. Situated in the heart of Florida, the forest is home to countless species of plants and animals. Visitors can hike through miles of trails, paddle down crystal-clear waterways, and camp under the stars. In addition, the forest is also home to several springs, which offer visitors the opportunity to cool off on hot summer days. If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Ocala National Forest is the perfect place to go.
Appleton Museum of Art
The Appleton Museum of Art is one of the best museums in Florida. The Appleton Museum of Art is a great place to view artwork and learn about art history. The museum has a wide variety of permanent collections, as well as rotating exhibitions. You can also take part in art classes, workshops, and other educational programs. The Appleton Museum is a great place to spend an afternoon
Historic Ocala Downtown Square
Ocala’s Downtown Square is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. It’s a lively spot with plenty of things to see and do. There are a number of shops and restaurants, as well as a Saturday farmers market, art galleries, and a theater. The square is also home to a number of events throughout the year, including a weekly car show and live music on the weekends. Whether you’re looking to do some shopping, grab a bite to eat, or just take in the sights and sounds of the square, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Garlits Museum of Drag Racing
The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of drag racing. named after legendary drag racer Don Garlits, the museum houses a collection of over 150 cars, as well as artifacts and memorabilia from the sport’s history. In addition to being able to view the cars and artifacts on display, the Garlits Museum of Drag Racing also offers a number of fun activities for visitors. There’s a virtual reality simulator that lets you experience what it’s like to race down the track, and a kids’ play area where they can pretend to be race car drivers.
Silver River Museum
The Silver River Museum is a great option if you’re looking for things to do in Ocala. The museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the area, and it offers a variety of exhibits and programs. One of the highlights is the Native American village, which includes a replica of a Seminole village. You can also learn about the area’s early settlers, including the famous frontier woman Martha Stewart. The museum also has a nature trail, and it’s located on the scenic Silver River. Admission is only $5 for adults, so it’s a great value for your money.
Canyon Zip Line
The Canyon Zip Line in Ocala is one of the most popular attractions in the area. It’s a great way to see the sights and get some exercise at the same time. The zip line itself is over a mile long, and it takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area. You can also enjoy other activities such as hiking and biking while you’re there. Admission to the park is very reasonable, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Fort King National Historic Park
Fort King National History Park in Ocala is a great thing to do in Ocala if you wish to learn about American history and have a fun day out. The park offers a variety of educational programs and activities, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can explore the fort, learn about the history of the Seminole people, and see a variety of exhibits. There are also a number of hiking trails and picnic areas. Admission to the park is free, making it an affordable option for families.
Things to Do in Ocala: Time to Sum Up!
If you’re looking for things to do in Ocala, we hope the list above gives you some good ideas. Altough by no means exhaustive, the list above should give you a good starting point. There are plenty of other great activities and attractions waiting for you here in Ocala, so get out there and explore! We hope you enjoy your time here and make some great memories!
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