Ocala Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ocala, Florida with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, food to try and more!


Introduction to Ocala

Ocala, the horse capital of the world, is a beautiful city located in North Central Florida. Known for its rolling hills, horse farms, and natural beauty, Ocala offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and history.

List of Places to Visit in Ocala

If you are planning a trip to Ocala, here are some must-visit places you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing: An impressive collection of historic drag racing cars and memorabilia.
  2. Appleton Museum of Art: A great place to explore art and culture. The museum has a diverse collection of American, European, African, and Asian art.
  3. The National Register Historic District: A walking tour of Ocala’s beautiful historic homes and landmarks.

Natural Attractions of Ocala: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Silver Springs State Park: The world-famous glass-bottom boats provide a unique way to explore the natural springs.
  2. Ocala National Forest: A great place for hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. The forest has more than 100 miles of hiking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ocala

Ocala has plenty of hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best:

  1. Santos Trailhead: A great place to explore mountain biking in Ocala.
  2. Greenway Trail: A multi-use trail that’s suitable for biking, hiking, and horseback riding.

Best Things to Do in Ocala: Activities and Tours

  1. Horse Country Carriage Rides: Take a carriage ride through the horse farms of Ocala.
  2. Gypsy Gold Horse Farm Tour: A must-visit place for horse lovers. You’ll learn about the breed and see the magnificent horses up close.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ocala

Here’s a suggested itinerary for your one-week trip to Ocala:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing
Day 2 Explore Silver Springs State Park and take a glass-bottom boat tour
Day 3 Visit Ocala National Forest and go hiking
Day 4 Take a horse carriage tour or a visit to Gypsy Gold Horse Farm
Day 5 Explore Appleton Museum of Art
Day 6 Visit The National Register Historic District in Ocala
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the local food and culture

Food and Drink Scene of Ocala

Foodies will love Ocala’s food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Cracker-style Barbecue: A popular way of cooking pork, chicken, and beef in Central Florida.
  2. Fried Green Tomatoes: A Southern classic dish that’s often served with remoulade sauce.

Local Beverages

  1. Ocala Downtown Market: The market has plenty of local coffee and craft beer options to choose from.
  2. Orange Blossom Ale: A local beer made with Florida honey and fresh orange zest.

Where to Stay in Ocala: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ocala has a range of accommodations to suit every budget. Here are some options to consider:

  1. Hilton Ocala: A luxury hotel located close to the major attractions of Ocala.
  2. Ocala RV Camp Resort: A great option for travelers who prefer camping and RVs.

What to Buy in Ocala: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring back a piece of Ocala, here are some souvenirs and local products to consider:

  • Horse-related memorabilia, such as pictures, paintings, and figurines.
  • Citrus fruit products, such as orange marmalade, flavored honey, and orange blossom perfume.

Local Culture and Customs of Ocala

Ocala is a welcoming and friendly city. Here are some aspects of the local culture and customs to be aware of:

  • Respect the horse farms and their privacy. Some farms restrict visitors.
  • The local accent is a Southern drawl, and the locals are proud of their Southern hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Ocala

The best time to visit Ocala is from October to May when the weather is mild and comfortable to enjoy outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ocala

Do:

  • Do explore the horse farms that open to the public.
  • Do try the Cracker-style Barbecue.
  • Do visit the local market for shopping and local food.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the natural parks and forests.
  • Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for the hiking.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ocala

Ocala is a safe city for travelers. However, keep the following safety tips in mind:

  • Lock your car and valuables when leaving them in the car.
  • Be aware of your surroundings when exploring the city at night.

Health in Ocala

Make sure to pack sunscreen, bug spray and water when exploring the outdoors. Always consult a doctor before trying any new activities, especially if you have health issues.

Getting to Ocala: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ocala

  • Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV): Located 37 miles away from Ocala.
  • Orlando International Airport (MCO): Located 80 miles away from Ocala.

Bus Stations Near Ocala

  • Greyhound Ocala Station: The main intercity bus station in Ocala.
  • Marion Transit Center: A local bus station that provides transportation service in the Ocala Metro area.

Other Options

  • Driving: Ocala is easily accessible from major highways such as I-75 and I-4.
  • Train: The closest Amtrak station is in Palatka, which is 43 miles away from Ocala.

How to Get Around in Ocala

Renting a car or a bike in Ocala is a great way to explore the city. You can also use local buses or ride-sharing apps to get around.

Where to Go Next from Ocala: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time, consider visiting nearby destinations such as:

  • Gainesville: Home to the iconic University of Florida and historic landmarks.
  • Cedar Key: A charming seaside town known for its fishing and boating.

Conclusion

Ocala is a unique blend of Southern hospitality, natural beauty, and rich history. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, art aficionado, or foodie, Ocala has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience all that Ocala has to offer!

Appleton Museum of Art Appleton Museum of Art Silver River, from within Silver River State Park Silver River, from within Silver River State Park