Things to do in Ocala may surprise you! Ocala, FL is well-known as the Horse Capital of the World, and you can find numerous horse-themed things to do in Ocala FL. You can also find great museums, national parks, and unique attractions for kids and adults alike.
However, finding the right things to do in Ocala takes some time. Take a look at a few different Ocala attractions, compare them together, and make an itinerary for what you will do. Here is your guide on what to do in Ocala.
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World Equestrian Center | The Largest Horseback Riding Center in America
Time Magazine named the World Equestrian Center Ocala (WEC) one of the world’s greatest places in 2024. WEC is one of the best things to do in Ocala, regardless of what you’re interested in. WEC is the largest equestrian complex in the country, covering 378 acres and including both outdoor and indoor spaces. WEC is free to visit, and most horse shows at the center are also free. You can see horseback riding shows throughout the year at the center, including professional dressage competitions.
WEC is one of the most upscale and classy Ocala attractions. The World Equestrian Center contains on-site luxury stores, nine on-site fine dining restaurants, and a luxury spa. The Equestrian Hotel is one of the most popular hotels for out-of-town visitors in Ocala FL.
World Equestrian Center (WEC) Details
- Address: 1750 Northwest 80th Avenue, Ocala, FL, 34482
- Phone number: 352-414-7900
Florida Horse Park | 500-Acre Park in Ocala Home to Year-Round Horse Shows
If you want more equestrian things to do in Ocala, you can visit the Florida Horse Park. The Florida Horse Park is a 500-acre park that is home to horse shows throughout the year. The park contains 350 acres of fields with 320 permanent horse stalls and an 80,000-square-foot arena. Most horse shows at the horse park are free to the public. If you’re interested in horseback riding, you can bring your horse to the Florida Horse Park Ocala for $50.
You can also take horseback riding classes and compete in shows for amateurs throughout the year. Florida Horse Park events include Florida Horse Park Christmas lights ceremonies in the winter. Events at the park vary depending on Ocala weather, so check the forecast before heading out.
Florida Horse Park Details
- Address: 11008 South Highway 475, Ocala, FL, 33480
- Phone number: 352-307-6699
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Silver Springs State Park | One of the Best Outdoor Things to Do Near Ocala FL
If you’re looking for things to do near Ocala FL, you can visit Silver Springs State Park, which is just outside the city. Silver Springs State Park is best known for its glass-bottom boat tours. You and your kids can ride on boats on the Silver River and observe fish, plants, and other things beneath your boat. You can also go kayaking on the river, hike on five different trails, and go camping. The Silver River Museum is located in the park and has exhibits on the nearby wildlife. Silver Springs State Park tickets cost $2 per person, with admittance fees waived for children under the age of six. The state park is one of the best things to do in Ocala if you’re on a budget.
Silver Springs State Park Details
- Address: 5656 East Silver Springs Boulevard, Silver Springs, FL, 34488
- Phone number: 352-261-5840
Ocala National Forest | Top Outdoor Attraction With Dozens of Fun Outdoor Activities
Ocala National Forest, the second largest national forest in the state of Florida, is a short drive from Downtown Ocala. Ocala National Forest caters to nearly every type of outdoor activity, making it one of the best outdoor things to do near Ocala FL. The forest contains over 600 lakes, some of which are open to fishing, boating, and swimming during warm Ocala weather.
The forest is home to the Silver Glen Springs, two Ocala National Forest springs that are open for snorkeling and swimming. Many people consider the Silver Glen Springs to be the top natural springs near Gainesville. If you’d prefer backpacking or hiking, you can hike nearly 100 miles of trails, including trails near the Silver Glen Springs.
You can try out Ocala National Forest camping in 14 different campgrounds. If you’re interested in hunting, the forest contains three hunting camps and an area for big game hunting. The park is free to visit, though visiting Silver Glen Springs requires a $12 fee per person.
Ocala National Forest Details
- Address: Off Florida State Route 40, Florida, 32179
- Phone number: N/A
Appleton Museum of Art | Kid-Friendly Art Museum With Over 24,000 Works of Art
The College of Central Florida houses the Appleton Museum of Art, a hidden gem tourist attraction. The Appleton Museum contains over 24,000 works of art, including a collection of equine art and paintings from Florida artists. The museum is home to rotating and special exhibitions, so no two visits are the same.
You can also enjoy special events like movie screenings, fashion shows, and Christmas parties throughout the year. The Appleton Museum is one of the best things to do in Ocala with kids. Children can enjoy classes at the Appleton Museum, and their works are sometimes featured in special exhibitions.
Appleton Museum Details
- Address: 4333 East Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL, 34470
- Phone number: 352-291-4455
Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club | Top Ocala Golf Course With Beautiful Views
If you’re looking for things to do in Ocala FL for retirees and older people, you can visit Golden Ocala. Many residents of 55+ communities in Ocala have memberships at Golden Ocala. The Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club is the top Ocala golf course, covering over 1,200 acres. Golden Ocala offers scenic views of the surrounding area and rolling hills that are perfect for photography. Golden Ocala contains an 18-hole championship golf course with a six-acre short game area, a driving range, and two practice holes.
Golden Ocala Golf also has a world-class equestrian facility. You can ride your horses on six miles of bridle trails and take dressage and jumping classes. If you prefer other activities, you and your kids can play tennis on six tennis courts and swim in a zero-entry pool. You can enjoy spa treatments at an on-site spa, including facial and full-body massages.
Golden Ocala Golf Details
- Address: 8300 Northwest 31st Lane Road, Ocala, FL, 34482
- Phone number: 352-629-6229
Reilly Arts Center | One of the Best Things to Do in Ocala for Music and Theatre
The Reilly Arts Center is the best point of interest in Ocala for concerts, theatrical performances, and stand-up comedy. The center contains a 705-seat performing venue that is home to the Ocala Symphony Orchestra. The Reilly Arts Center Ocala also has a black box theatre that is popular amongst local theatre troupes. You and your family can enjoy concerts and events throughout the year, including shows from tribute bands.
The Reilly Arts Center is located in Tuscawilla Park. After a show, you can go for a walk around Lake Tuscawilla, play tennis at the park tennis court, or have a picnic in a grassy field. Tuscawilla Park is one of the best things to do in Ocala FL for people looking for a quick activity.
Reilly Arts Center Details
- Address: 500 Northeast 9th Street, Ocala, FL, 34470
- Phone number: 352-351-1606
Fort King National Historic Landmark | Best Thing to Do in Ocala for History
Fort King was a major military fort during the Second Seminole War. It’s one of the best things to do in Ocala for history and education. The fort is now a historic site with a walking trail that runs through a heritage garden, pine forests, and a military cemetery. The trail contains placards that provide information on Fort King and Ocala history, as well as plant species you may be observing.
Fort King Ocala is also home to special events, including historic re-enactments that commemorate the Second Seminole War and storytelling sessions. You can visit Fort King for free, and special events like storytelling sessions are also free. Fort King is one of the best things to do in Ocala FL in winter and in fall, as many storytelling events take place in October and December.
Fort King Details
- Address: 3925 East Fort King Street, Ocala, FL, 34470
- Phone number: 352-368-5533
The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park | Unique Zip Lines and Horseback Riding Tours
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure in Marion County, you can visit The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park. The park is one of the best things to do in Ocala with kids and it’s most famous for its 1,100-foot Ocala zip line over Lost Spring Lake. You can take Ocala zip line tours that take you through two canyons and four lakes, giving you incredible views of horse country.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take tours during full moons and go horseback riding through the park during good Ocala weather. The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park is also home to kayaking, boating, and gem mining. The prices for tours vary, and you can get a discount by ordering packages from the World Equestrian Center.
The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park Details
- Address: 8045 Northwest Gainesville Road, Ocala, FL, 34475
- Phone number: 352-351-9477
The Brick City Center | Downtown Ocala Museum for Local Artists and Sculptors
The Brick City Center for the Arts is home to the Marion Cultural Alliance, an Ocala art organization that supports artists in Ocala. The Brick City Center for the Arts offers a new art exhibit every 30 days, always featuring art from the local area. Some exhibits at Brick City are focused on single artists, while others combine works of a specific theme, like art inspired by Paris or books.
You can look at paintings and sculptures of many different themes and styles. Brick City is also well-known for its horse sculptures, which are located outside the center. Brick City is free to visit, but you can sign up for a paid membership and receive access to special events.
Brick City Details
- Address: 23 Southwest Broadway Street, Ocala, FL, 34471
- Phone number: 352-369-1500
Map of the Top Things to Do in Ocala
You can use this map to find the best things to do in Ocala, including parks and museums. You can also find additional fun things to do nearby and opportunities for shopping and food.
The best things to do in Ocala may surprise you! You can enjoy plenty of equestrian activities, especially at the World Equestrian Center and Florida Horse Park. However, you can branch out and enjoy great works of art at the Brick City Center and swim in crystal clear water in Ocala National Forest.
If you’re ready to discover what to do in Ocala, you should hire top Ocala movers. 2 College Brothers is the most reliable moving company in Ocala, with over 14 years of experience. Call 352-448-9095 for a free quote now.
