Things to do in Ocala, Florida

ocala nature water and trees Adjacent to Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club, World Equestrian Center – Ocala is a premier horse show facility where visitors can enjoy other amenities including a luxury hotel, several restaurants and upscale boutiques. While visiting the “Horse Capital of the World” there is always a list of things to do in Ocala, Florida.

Dining

Experience a bit of quaint charm in downtown Ocala while dining at local favorites Mark’s Prime Steakhouse & Seafood, Ivy On the Square, La Cuisine French Restaurant, Brick City Southern Kitchen & Whiskey Bar and Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille. A number of other delicious options include Mesa de Notte, Latinos Y Mas, Ipanema Brazilian SteakHouse, 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 and The Blue Wagyu.

Ocala is also home to Rashad Jones who operates Big Lee’s Serious About Barbecue, a popular local food truck. Jones is also host of the new Food Network show “Eat Sleep Barbecue,” after competing on “Guy’s Big Project,” featuring celebrity chef and restaurant owner Guy Fieri. The trick to sampling Big Lee’s is to call ahead or get in line early. The truck is only open Friday and Saturdays and serves until sold out. Be sure to add this to your list of things to do in Ocala, Florida.

Shopping

The name of Ocala’s Paddock Mall pays tribute to the area’s rich history in the horse industry. Shoppers will find a number of national retailers at Paddock Mall including Macy’s, JC Penney and American Eagle Outfitters. Ocala’s downtown sector features a number of unique boutiques including Agapanthus, Ivy On the Square Boutique, and Shannon Roth Collection – Olivia Co. & Kids. Then, take time to travel a few blocks of the Downtown Square to peek into family apparel retailers Greiner’s of Ocala and Her Kloset at Greiner’s.

Be sure to check out Market Street at Heath Brook. You will find a host of other national retailers including Dillard’s,

Dick’s Sporting Goods and Old Navy. And, of course, a number of vendors will be on-site during horse shows at the World Equestrian Center.

Of all the things to do in Ocala, Florida, it’s easy to spot horse-themed gear and décor. The region hosted “Horse Fever,” a public art project featuring horses painted by local artists. A second version of the effort known as “Horse Fever II” was staged a few years later followed by the March 2021 Horse Fever Rides Again.

ocala nature trails man and woman walking

Activities and Attractions

In fact, visitors can find miniature figurines and other merchandise from Horse Fever at Brick City Center for the Arts. The “Brick” as it’s affectionately known, features the art of local artists. If you are looking for things to do in Ocala, Florida, discover the Brick and the local art scene.

A must-visit for art lovers is the Appleton Museum of Art operated by the College of Central Florida. The museum is considered a preeminent institution in the southeast U.S. The Appleton, which opened to the public in 1987, was a gift to the Ocala community from Arthur I. Appleton who operated Bridlewood Farm where he bred and trained thoroughbred horses.

florida silver springs state park sign entrance Ocala has a wealth of other notable attractions including Silver Springs State Park, known for the famous glass-bottom boats allowing visitors to see the crystal clear waters from the actual Silver Spring.

The park was also the filming location for many of the Tarzan movies. The natural setting served as the perfect background for jungle scenes. Silver Springs was also the backdrop for The Creature from the Black Lagoon and Sea Hunt films, to name a few.

Silver Springs State Park is located on the western edge of the Ocala National Forest and attracts tourists to explore the many hiking trails, first magnitude springs like Juniper Springs, and other pursuits of ecotourism. Spend time at the Lake George Ranger District office learning more about what the forest has to offer visitors.

ocala canoeing kayaking lake george History buffs will be drawn to the Fort King National Historic Landmark which was the site used by the Army during the Seminole War. In 2004, the site was designated as a national historic landmark. The site includes a replica of the original fort from the 1830’s, an interpretive walking trail and a visitor’s center.

don garlits museum of drag racing drag car on track from behind

More Things to do in Ocala, Florida

Don’t pass up the chance to get close-up to a collection of fast rides at the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing. Garlits, known as “Big Daddy,” holds 17 world championship titles during more than 40 years of racing. He has won the NHRA National event an impressive eight times in his career.

Golf enthusiasts can take a break from the show ring and tee off on the 18-hole championship course at Ocala National Golf Club at Golden Hills which is just a short drive away. As you can see, there is plenty to keep you busy during a show.

golden ocala gold and equestrian club golfer swinging sunset

The Ocala National Golf Club at Golden Hills is a short drive away so visitors can get a game in and still be close to the action at World Equestrian Center. As you can see, there is plenty to keep you busy during a show.

ocala arts venue crowd enjoying performance

Entertainment

Take in dinner and a movie while visiting downtown Ocala. The historic Marion Theatre, showing first-run films, is within close walking distance to many of the restaurants in the downtown area. Also, catch the latest movies at Regal Hollywood Stadium 16 & IMAX.

When making your arrangements to visit the area, check out the schedule for the Ocala Civic Theatre to take in a live-stage production. The community theatre, located in the Appleton Cultural Center, features approximately 12 local productions each year.

ocala reilly arts center playing violin The Reilly Arts Center showcases a variety of live entertainment including a comedy show, a symphony concert, or a national dance tour. Tickets are definitely in high demand to attend an event at this versatile venue.

In addition, other entertainment options include laughing the night away at Bonkerz Comedy Club. The venue showcases a full lineup of comics from around the country. Bonkerz is located at the Ocala Breeders Sales and Racebook.

And don’t forget that Ocala is located north of Disney, Universal Studios and SeaWorld theme parks, to name a few. We’re sure you will find lots of things to do in Ocala, Florida and the surrounding area.