Things to do in Ocala, Florida

Adjacent to Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club, World Equestrian Center – Ocala blends the thrill of elite equestrian sport with the elegance of a full-service resort. Between competitions, guests can browse upscale boutiques, savor diverse dining, indulge in spa treatments and enjoy seasonal entertainment—all without leaving the grounds. Set in the heart of the “Horse Capital of the World,” World Equestrian Center offers a luxurious home base for experiencing the best things to do in Ocala, Florida, along with versatile spaces and amenities that make any visit unforgettable. 

Dining

From multi-course meals to casual bites, Ocala’s culinary scene satisfies every craving—and at World Equestrian Center – Ocala, many of the best dining options are just steps from the action. Stirrups Restaurant offers refined, regionally inspired cuisine with terrace seating overlooking the Grand Outdoor Arena. Yellow Pony Pub & Garden serves pub classics and craft cocktails in a relaxed setting, anchored by a distinctive horseshoe-shaped bar. Miss Tilly’s Lollipops is the go-to for sweet treats and specialty coffee. Additional on-site favorites include Filo’s Mexican Cantina, Ralph’s Burger & Sandwich Shop, Viola & Dot’s Italian Kitchen & Pizzeria, Emma’s Patisserie and the always-refreshing Horse to Water Pool & Bar. 

Beyond the gates, downtown Ocala and the surrounding area offer even more variety, including local favorites Mark’s Prime Steakhouse & Seafood, Ivy On the Square, and La Cuisine French Restaurant. A number of other delicious options include Mesa de Notte, Latinos Y Mas, Ipanema Brazilian Steak House, Braised Onion and The Crazy Cucumber. If you decide to dine a little closer to the World Equestrian Center, the Golden Hills Center is home to the Horse & Hounds Restaurant, a local hotspot. Barbecue lovers shouldn’t miss Big Lee’s Serious About Barbecue, owned by Food Network star and Ocala pitmaster, Rashad Jones. Be sure to add this to your list of things to do in Ocala, Florida.

Shopping

Within the elegant grounds of World Equestrian Center – Ocala, shopping is woven into the experience. Explore a curated mix of boutiques offering everything from fine jewelry to designer fashions and home decor.

Inside The Equestrian Hotel, The Debonair Collection features luxury brands and home accessories, the Equestrian Collection offers fine linens, and Mr. Pickles & Sailor Bear Toy Shoppe delights with teddy bears and Breyer Horses. Around the arenas, you’ll find shops stocked with boots, saddles, denim and leather goods from a variety of premier equestrian brands. 

Nearby, Paddock Mall—named for Ocala’s horse heritage—hosts national retailers like Macy’s, JCPenney and American Eagle Outfitters. Downtown Ocala is home to unique shops like Agapanthus, Ivy On the Square Boutique, and Shannon Roth Collection – Olivia Co. & Kids, with Greiner’s of Ocala and Her Kloset at Greiner’s just a short walk away.

Of all the things to do in Ocala, Florida, few are as colorful as the Horse Fever® Painted Statue Trail. Scattered throughout downtown and Marion County, life-size horse statues—painted by local artists as part of the Horse Fever public art project—offer a vibrant tribute to the area’s equestrian culture.

Activities and Attractions

From relaxing poolside to exploring Central Florida’s natural beauty, World Equestrian Center – Ocala offers activities for every pace. Guests of The Equestrian Hotel can unwind at the Horse to Water Pool & Bar or indulge in soothing treatments at Calluna Spa.

Art, history and outdoor adventure are all within easy reach, giving guests direct access to some of the most notable attractions near Ocala, Florida. The Brick City Center for the Arts showcases local creations and merchandise from the Horse Fever project, while the Appleton Museum of Art—a gift from thoroughbred breeder Arthur I. Appleton—houses works from around the world.

Nature lovers can explore Silver Springs State Park, famous for its crystal clear waterways and iconic glass-bottom boat tours. The park’s lush, jungle-like scenery has appeared in Hollywood films such as Tarzan, The Creature from the Black Lagoon and Sea Hunt.

For thrill-seekers, The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park offers Florida’s highest, fastest and longest zip lines, along with horseback riding and kayaking. History buffs can visit Fort King National Historic Landmark, complete with a replica 1830s fort, interpretive trail and a visitors center.  

More Things to do in Ocala, Florida

World Equestrian Center – Ocala keeps its event calendar full year-round. Spectators are welcome for premier hunter/jumper and dressage competitions, many with free admission. Saturday night Grand Prix events bring a lively, family-friendly atmosphere with music, food and show jumping under the lights. 

Staying at World Equestrian Center – Ocala also puts guests close to some of the most visited attractions near Ocala, Florida. Sports fans can explore the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing and see a collection of cars driven by “Big Daddy” Don Garlits. Golfers can tee off at the Ocala National Golf Club at Golden Hills, an 18-hole championship course just minutes away.

Entertainment

World Equestrian Center – Ocala offers plenty of excitement outside the arena. Guests can enjoy live music at Yellow Pony Pub & Garden, themed dinners at Stirrups Restaurant and seasonal festivities like Winter Wonderland, when the property is decked with over a million twinkling lights. Special events, such as the Stirrups Wine Series, pair gourmet cuisine with curated wine tastings. 

For a night out, Ocala’s historic square offers an inviting mix of dining and cultural gems. Catch a first-run film in the historic Marion Theatre, see the latest movies at Regal Hollywood Stadium 16 & IMAX or take in a stage production at the Ocala Civic Theatre. 

The Reilly Arts Center hosts everything from symphonies to national touring acts, while Bonkerz Comedy Club brings in comics from across the country. For those looking to extend their trip and explore more attractions near Ocala, Florida, the Disney, Universal Studios and SeaWorld parks are just a short drive away. 

From world-class equestrian sport to scenic parks, museums and downtown adventures, there’s an abundance of things to do in Ocala, Florida, and the surrounding area.