Things To Do
in Ocala
Ocala, Florida sits in central Florida as a gateway to rolling horse country and lush natural scenery. The city blends historic downtown charm with easy access to pristine forests, springs, and ranches. Visitors can experience equestrian culture, outdoor adventures, and a relaxed Florida pace in one day or a week.
Expect a welcoming, sunlit landscape dotted with citrus groves, grazing horses, and traditional Southern hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic district of Ocala, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of the 19th-century buildings. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe, sampling some delicious Southern-style dishes. After your meal, take a stroll through the quaint streets, stopping by shops and galleries that showcase local art and crafts.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into Ocala's history at the Appleton Museum of Art, where you can explore a diverse collection of artworks. After your museum visit, head to one of the nearby parks for a picnic lunch, surrounded by nature. Consider taking a short hike on the trails that wind through the area, enjoying the lush scenery.
As the sun sets, dine at a charming restaurant in downtown Ocala, savoring local cuisine and perhaps a glass of Florida wine. After dinner, catch a live performance at the Ocala Civic Theatre, where you can enjoy an array of theatrical productions. Conclude the evening with a relaxing walk along the streets, taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the historic center.
Begin your day with a guided tour of the beautiful horse farms that Ocala is famous for, learning about the equestrian culture that defines the region. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a farm-themed eatery, where you can indulge in fresh farm-to-table ingredients. After breakfast, visit some of the stunning horse ranches, getting up close with thoroughbreds and perhaps even witnessing a training session.
In the afternoon, head to the Florida Horse Park for some interactive experiences, where you can watch competitions or try your hand at horseback riding. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby café that caters to equestrians and visitors alike. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the nearby trails or visiting a local tack shop for unique equestrian gear.
Dine at a steakhouse renowned for its quality cuts and local specialties, surrounded by horse-themed decor that reflects the area’s heritage. After dinner, take a scenic drive through the countryside, appreciating the stunning views of rolling pastures and stables. If time allows, catch a sunset at one of the local parks, providing a perfect backdrop to end your equestrian-themed day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee shop beverage | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner | $25-40 |
| 🛏️One night at mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
| 🎟️Movie or live event ticket | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic horse-country scenery and access to spring-fed waterways
- Strong outdoors scene with parks, forests, and wildlife
- Compact, walkable downtown with hospitality and charm
- Cultural attractions like Appleton Museum and local history sites
- Limited nightlife outside the downtown core
- Spread-out attractions may require a car
- Summer heat and humidity with afternoon storms
- Smaller scale compared to larger Florida cities
Places to Visit in Ocala
Visit one of these nice places.
Architectural lines and landscaped grounds provide clean compositions, with seasonal exhibitions adding color and interest.
Historic brick facades, charming storefronts, and murals create textured, urban photography opportunities.
Crystal-clear springs, canopied vistas, and wildlife scenes—great for nature and water photography.
Rolling pastures and tack barns offer quintessential horse-country backdrops, especially at golden-hour light.
Food in Ocala
Ocala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bright, citrus-glazed chicken with seasonal greens, commonly featured in farm-to-table menus around downtown Ocala.
Must-Try!
Grits, fried cornmeal, and other Southern staples often served with regional twists at local diners.
A tangy Florida staple found in bakeries and cafes across Ocala, perfect as a lighter finish to a hearty meal.
Slow-roasted pork with regional barbecue sauces, widely available at casual eateries and barbecue spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A seasonal hub featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and food trucks, a great spot to sample local flavors on market days.
Frequent street-food options around downtown and near event spaces, offering quick bites and diverse cuisines.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly greetings and small talk are common; people appreciate courteous interactions and tipping appropriately.
Stay on designated paths near ranches; follow guide instructions during tours and keep noise to a minimum around any stables.
Safety
Tipping in Ocala
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% is standard. For bar service or takeout, $1–$2 per drink or 15–20% is common. Tipping for hotel staff and tour guides follows similar norms.
Major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is accepted at most venues. Some smaller vendors and markets may accept mobile payments or cards with chip-and-pin.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures with bright blooms; ideal for outdoor trails, parks, and early-evening strolls.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon storms; plan indoor museum stops or early-morning outdoor activities.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; great for hiking, photography, and outdoor dining.
Mild days with cooler evenings; comfortable for city walks and spring garden visits.
Ocala at Night
Hiking in Ocala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hidden gem in Ocala National Forest with tranquil boardwalks and forest trails.
Scenic trails around one of the spring-fed springs with wildlife and gentle terrain.
Lush trails nearby for a mix of forest and water views; excellent for photography and nature walks.
Airports
How to reach Ocala by plane.
Small regional airport serving general aviation and some charter services; convenient for quick trips to nearby destinations.
Relatively close option with more regular commercial service to various destinations.
Major hub with extensive connections; longer drive but broad flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population resides in and around Ocala, contributing to a slower-paced, friendly atmosphere.
Many people are drawn to parks, farms, and spring activities, often favoring day trips and weekend outings.
Educational institutions and museums attract students and faculty, adding cultural diversity to the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Dressage and show jumping scenes tied to the region’s horse country culture.
Several public and resort courses in and around Ocala.
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating in crystal-clear spring waters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ocala.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for plant-forward options and vegetable-centric dishes; many restaurants offer veggie plates, salads, and sides that can be customized.