Come to Ocala for an Awesome Central Florida Experience!
Ocala is a hidden Central Florida gem brimming with attractions that cater to all kinds of adventurers. The rich equestrian culture, multiple natural springs, and historic downtown offer a delightful mix of activities that showcase the best of Florida. From exploring scenic parks and unique geological wonders to indulging in Southern cuisine and vibrant local culture, these Ocala Florida attractions promise unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
How to Get to Ocala and the Historic District
The nearest airport to downtown Ocala is the Gainesville (GNV) Airport which is 35 miles away. Other nearby airports include Orlando Sanford (SFB) (61 miles) and Orlando International (MCO) (73 miles). From there, you can take a taxi or hop in a rental car and drive right to the historic downtown area. If you plan on driving, Ocala is about an hour northwest of Orlando, less than 2 hours from New Smyrna Beach, or 40 minutes south of Gainesville.
Top Ten Ocala Florida Attractions
1. Bike the Trails at Santos State Park
For some of the best mountain biking trails in Florida -and even the entire world- head to Santos State Park. Offering over 80 miles of diverse single-track trails, these experiences range from beginner-friendly routes to expert-level challenges that will push even elite riders to their limits.
Thanks to the dedication of the Ocala Mountain Bike Association, Santos is consistently ranked as one of the best mountain biking spots ever developed. The rolling terrain, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and diverse scenery mix with multiple wooden formations and even an old limerock quarry to produce an epic ride!
Travel tip: The Santos Campground provides the perfect setting to sit around a fire at the end of the day and trade trail stories.
2. Swim in the Springs
Ocala is in Marion County, Florida, which is home to six gorgeous and distinct natural springs. Several of these springs offer a place to jump in and cool off in the water, much needed during the hot Florida summer afternoons. Juniper Springs also has a campground and hiking trails, and Salt Springs has a nearby boat launch so boaters can approach the spring and swim right in!
3. Enjoy a Drive-In Movie
The Ocala Drive-In is a beloved local gem that brings a touch of nostalgia, and is one of the most iconic Ocala Florida attractions. Opened in 1948 and still going strong, this classic drive-in theater offers a fun, retro movie-watching experience where you can enjoy the latest blockbusters from the comfort of your car.
The double feature showings, affordable ticket prices, and cozy, family-friendly atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a laid back evening under the stars. With a well stocked concession stand serving up everything from popcorn and nachos to burgers and milkshakes, the Ocala Drive-In combines vintage charm with modern-day entertainment.
4. Take a Paddling Adventure
Springs aren’t just for swimming: bring your paddleboard, kayak, or canoe to explore even more of Ocala’s natural springs! Paddling in Rainbow Springs is like gliding through a natural paradise, with crystal-clear waters revealing vibrant aquatic life beneath your kayak or paddleboard. The serene surroundings of lush greenery and gentle river currents make it an ideal spot for a peaceful escape into nature.
Over at Silver Springs, paddling offers a unique adventure as you navigate through one of Florida’s largest artesian springs. Famous for its glass bottom boats and abundant wildlife, visitors can spot turtles, manatees, and even wild monkeys during the journey! These Ocala Florida attractions provide unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
5. Visit Ocala's Historic Downtown
Visiting Ocala’s historic downtown is like stepping into a charming blend of the past and present. The area is filled with beautifully preserved architecture that reflects its rich history, with buildings dating back to the late 1800’s. Stroll down the tree-lined streets and you’ll discover a variety of unique boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops that offer something for everyone.
The numerous horse statues seen throughout downtown Ocala are a vibrant tribute to the city’s rich equestrian heritage. Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Ocala has a deep-rooted connection to the horse industry. Its rolling pastures and world-class breeding farms produce some of the finest thoroughbreds in the country.
Fun fact: The colorful and creatively designed horse statues are part of a public art initiative called “Horse Fever,” which began in 2001. These statues not only celebrate Ocala’s status in the horse world but also add a unique and artistic flair to the artsy downtown area.
6. Hike in the Ocala National Forest
Hiking in the Ocala National Forest is an adventure through one of Florida’s most diverse and beautiful natural landscapes. Covering over 600 square miles, the forest offers a variety of trails that take hikers through dense pine forests, around sparkling lakes, and across sandy scrublands. Along the way you might spot wildlife like deer, turkeys, and even the occasional black bear!
One of the highlights is the Florida Trail, a 72-mile stretch that winds through the heart of the forest as part of the larger 1,300-mile-long Florida National Scenic Trail. This section of the trail offers hikers a chance to experience the state’s unique ecosystems, from shaded hammocks and swamps to open prairies and rolling sandhills.
7. Check out a Local Brewery
Ocala’s craft beer scene has been steadily growing, offering a variety of local breweries that cater to beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Infinite Ale Works is a standout, known for its diverse selection of Belgian-style ales, IPAs, and seasonal offerings. The cozy taproom is a great spot to sample a flight or enjoy a pint with friends.
Another local favorite is Big Hammock Brewery & Bites, where you’ll find a laid-back atmosphere and a menu that pairs perfectly with their craft beers. From refreshing lagers to bold stouts, there’s something for every palate. These breweries showcase a range of unique and flavorful brews, often inspired by the region’s history and culture.
8. Ziplining in Florida? Definitely!
For an exhilarating adventure that takes you soaring over the stunning landscapes of an old limestone quarry, head to the Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park. With lines stretching up to 1,100 feet long and reaching heights of over 100 feet above the ground, you’ll get panoramic views of sparkling lakes and lush forests, making it a truly unforgettable way to experience Ocala’s natural beauty.
Beyond ziplining, the park offers other exciting activities like horseback riding, kayaking, and a challenging ropes course, ensuring there’s something for every adventure seeker.
9. Enjoy authentic Southern Dining
Ocala’s Southern dining scene is truly exceptional, and Brick City Southern Kitchen is a standout spot. Located in the heart of downtown, Brick City offers a delightful menu featuring classics like crispy fried chicken and rich, creamy mac and cheese. For a more traditional Southern dining experience, The Ivy House Restaurant offers a menu filled with comforting classics like fried green tomatoes, chicken and waffles, and Southern-style meatloaf set in a charming historic house.
Our all-time favorite place in the entire state to get mouthwatering barbecue is Big Lee’s Serious About Barbecue. This is a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts looking for award-winning smoked meats and tasty Southern-style sides in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Big Lee’s has achieved national recognition when owner & pitmaster Rashad Jones competed and won the Food Network’s Barbecue Brawl competition, Beat Bobby Flay, and Guy Fieri’s Guy’s Big Project, showcasing his exceptional skills and earning him a well-deserved spot in the spotlight. We’ve had the pleasure of spending an afternoon cooking and eating with Rashad and his family at a special event “Friends & Fire”, and we can attest that he is as genuine of a person as he is a Master of ‘Cue.
10. Dive in Devil's Den Prehistoric Spring
Devil’s Den is an underground spring nestled inside a dry cave, renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters that maintain a refreshing 72°F year-round. Surrounded by ancient rock formations and illuminated by sunlight streaming through a large opening in the cave’s ceiling, Devil’s Den feels like stepping into another world. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, attracting adventurers eager to explore the stunning underwater landscapes and fossil beds that date back millions of years.
A visit to Ocala, Florida invites you to explore, relax, and immerse yourself in its charm. For adventures including paddling through crystal-clear springs, discovering historic sites, or simply enjoying the vibrant local scene, Ocala offers something special for everyone right in the heart of Central Florida!
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Happy Travels!
