Ocala Travel Guide

What is Ocala, Florida, known for?

Ocala is best known for its horse farms, natural springs, outdoor recreation, and historic downtown. Located in Central Florida, Ocala offers visitors a mix of equestrian experiences, outdoor adventures, local events, and small-town charm.

Whether you’re visiting for a horse show, exploring Florida’s natural springs, or spending a day downtown, these are some of the best things to do in Ocala.

Ocala Travel Guide: Key Takeaways

• Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Ocala is surrounded by thoroughbred farms and equestrian facilities.
• Silver Springs State Park is one of the area’s most popular outdoor attractions.
• Ocala National Forest offers hiking, paddling, swimming, and wildlife viewing.
• Downtown Ocala features locally owned restaurants, shops, galleries, and historic buildings.
• Fort King National Historic Landmark offers a look at Ocala’s early history.
• A car is recommended for exploring attractions outside downtown.

Explore Ocala’s Horse Country

Horse culture is one of the defining features of Ocala. The surrounding countryside is known for its thoroughbred farms, horse-training facilities, and expansive pastures bordered by white fences.

Visitors can explore the area’s equestrian attractions, attend horse shows and competitions, or visit the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company, a major thoroughbred auction facility. Even a drive through the surrounding horse country offers a glimpse into the area’s longstanding connection to the equestrian industry.

What is there to do at Silver Springs?

Silver Springs State Park offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The park is best known for its clear spring waters and glass-bottom boat tours, which provide views of the underwater environment.

The Silver River flows from the springs through a scenic natural setting where visitors may see fish, turtles, birds, and other Florida wildlife.

Explore Ocala National Forest

Located north and east of Ocala, Ocala National Forest is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. The forest features miles of trails, springs, lakes, and waterways.

Popular activities include:

• Hiking and nature walks
• Swimming and paddling
• Camping
• Fishing
• Wildlife viewing
• Off-road recreation in designated areas

With its combination of forests and freshwater springs, the national forest provides plenty of opportunities to experience Florida’s outdoors.

Discover Downtown Ocala

Downtown Ocala is a great place to experience the city’s local restaurants, shops, galleries, and historic character. The downtown area centers around the historic Ocala Downtown Square and hosts community events throughout the year.

Take a stroll through the square, browse local businesses, grab a meal, or check the events calendar for festivals and other activities during your visit.

Experience Local Events

Ocala’s events calendar reflects its strong equestrian traditions and active local community. Horse shows, auctions, festivals, farmers markets, art events, and seasonal celebrations take place throughout the year.

If you’re planning a trip around a specific event, check the event organizer’s schedule before visiting, as dates and activities can change from year to year.

Visit Fort King National Historic Landmark

History enthusiasts can visit Fort King National Historic Landmark, which preserves the site of an important U.S. Army fort from the early 19th century. The site includes walking trails, interpretive exhibits, and educational programs that explore the area’s history and the Seminole Wars.

Getting Around Ocala

Downtown Ocala is easy to explore on foot, but a car is the most convenient way to visit attractions throughout the surrounding area. Horse farms, Silver Springs, Ocala National Forest, and other outdoor destinations are spread across the region.

If you’re relocating to Ocala or need extra space while traveling or moving, Public Storage can provide a convenient place to keep household items, seasonal belongings, or other possessions.

FAQs

What is Ocala best known for?
Ocala is best known for its thoroughbred horse farms and equestrian industry. It is also known for its springs, outdoor recreation, and historic downtown.

Is Ocala worth visiting?
Yes. Ocala offers a combination of horse-country experiences, natural springs, outdoor recreation, historic sites, and local attractions.

What are the best outdoor attractions in Ocala?
Silver Springs State Park and Ocala National Forest are two of the area’s top destinations for outdoor recreation.

Can you visit horse farms in Ocala?
Some horse farms and equestrian facilities offer tours or public events, while others are private. Check with individual farms or tour operators before visiting.

Do you need a car in Ocala?
A car is recommended because many attractions, horse farms, springs, and outdoor recreation areas are located outside downtown.