Are you a planner looking for an experience that can’t be produced anywhere else? Having debuted in 2020, World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida, has officially hit its stride as one of the top venues in the Southern United States.
WEC – Ocala offers a unique blend of top-notch facilities, unparalleled ambiance, and a host of amenities that make it an ideal choice for events of any scale and purpose. And, as a world-renowned home for equestrian events, it sports a unique atmosphere that even your most loyal attendees have yet to witness at a conference, meeting, or trade show.
If horse racing is the sport of kings, WEC – Ocala is the crown jewel of meeting venues. On-site features include:
- A luxury 248-room hotel, with an additional 390-suite hotel adjacent to the future Event Center at WEC
- Two exposition centers
- Six indoor arenas and 23 outdoor arenas
- 7,000-seat stadium
- Seven restaurants with four more to come in 2025
- 13,000 square feet of high-end boutique retail space
- Top-of-the-line spa and salon
- Swimming pool and walking trails
Naysayers will transform into neigh-sayers after experiencing an event here. World Equestrian Center – Ocala defies expectations at a time when planners are forced to up their game.
Here are compelling reasons you should consider World Equestrian Center – Ocala for your next event:
1. State-of-the-Art Facilities
World Equestrian Center – Ocala boasts some of the most modern and well-equipped facilities in the country.
There are six arenas totaling 546,360 square feet of event space. Any of these are ideal for exhibitions, event space, and more.
Exhibitors and attendees will marvel at the two exposition centers, each with 132,300 square feet of floor space to accommodate a variety of sporting events, conventions, and trade shows.
WEC Stadium, with 7,000 permanent seats, allows planners to stretch their legs for creating memorable outdoor activities, from receptions to concerts to award ceremonies. Grand Outdoor Arena is another great choice for taking advantage of the Florida sunshine for a large meal, a keynote speech, or other meeting functions.
With more than 2,000 acres of land to work with at WEC, planners can build a program with minimal transportation while ensuring each of the event’s segments feels fresh.
2. Exceptional Catering Services
The culinary experience at World Equestrian Center – Ocala is second to none. With a team of experienced chefs and a wide range of menu options, the center can cater to all dietary preferences and cuisines, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all attendees.
On-site restaurants run the gamut of cuisines, including American, Mexican, and Italian, as well as a sweet shop and patisserie. Don’t worry, there is a pub to grab a pint and some grub!
The staff prides itself on the fact that none of its ingredients are delivered ready-made. Rather, the F&B team creates memorable meals unmatched by other venues. The same creativity, flexibility, and innovation are evident throughout all phases of the event planning process, from room setup to group itineraries. No event is the same at WEC – Ocala because our staff exceeds your expectations.
3. Convenient Location
Situated in the heart of Ocala, World Equestrian Center – Ocala is easily accessible from major cities and airports. Jacksonville, Daytona Beach, Orlando, and Tampa-St. Petersburg are all within driving distance—two hours or less. Ocala International Airport is also an option just five-minutes away for private flights.
Its location in the picturesque horse country adds an element of serenity and beauty, making it a refreshing change from the usual urban event venues your attendees are used to. Breaking the mold is one of our charms!
4. Accommodation and Amenities
One of WEC’s biggest perks is you don’t need to leave the campus. The Equestrian Hotel overlooks the Grand Arena for views attendees can’t find elsewhere. There, they can enjoy the full-service Calluna Spa, find some pool time, go shopping at over 30 luxury, and boutique stores, or dine alfresco or indoors.
The Riding Academy Hotel offers 390 pet-friendly suites and an outdoor pool and sundeck. Of course, guests staying there need only hop on a golf cart to shop, dine, and enjoy WEC’s myriad activities.
5. Unique Equestrian Experience
As the name suggests, World Equestrian Center – Ocala offers a unique equestrian experience that can be incorporated into your event for an unforgettable touch. From horse shows to equestrian-themed team-building moments, these features add an exclusive element that is sure to make attendees hot to trot.
6. Professional Event Support
The experienced staff at World Equestrian Center – Ocala are dedicated to making every event a success. From planning to execution, they provide comprehensive support, ensuring that every aspect of the event runs smoothly. The staff goes out of their way to create the event you want rather than taking a cookie-cutter approach.
World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida, is more than just a venue; it’s a destination that promises an exceptional event experience. Its combination of versatile spaces, exquisite services, and unique ambiance makes it the perfect choice for meeting planners seeking a venue that offers both functionality and flair. By choosing World Equestrian Center, you are not just organizing an event, you are creating an experience that will be remembered for years to come.
Contact ocalasales@wec.net to inquire about bringing your next meeting to World Equestrian Center – Ocala.