Things to see and do in Ocala, Florida

Ocala, Florida: Where Horses, History, and Nature Meet

Ocala doesn’t scream for attention—but it doesn’t need to. Tucked into north-central Florida, this city has carved out a unique identity built on rolling horse pastures, ancient forests, and a deep sense of tradition. It’s a place where rural charm and modern growth walk side by side, and where life still runs at a pace you can actually enjoy.

We have been to Ocala many times.  We enjoy ziplining at the Canyons and visiting Silver Springs.

Ask anyone what Ocala is known for, and you’ll get one answer: horses. This is the Horse Capital of the World, and it wears that title proudly. With over 600 thoroughbred farms scattered across Marion County, the equestrian industry isn’t just a cultural highlight—it’s an economic engine. Legendary racehorses have been bred and trained here, and the sprawling green fields dotted with white fences are a signature part of the local landscape. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just visiting, you can feel the horse culture in everything from the local art to the roadside billboards.

But there’s more to Ocala than saddles and stables. Nature lovers find their paradise in the Ocala National Forest, a 600-square-mile spread of pine scrub, natural springs, and wilderness trails. It's one of the most biodiverse regions in Florida, and it’s only a short drive from downtown. Visitors can swim in crystal-clear springs like Juniper, Silver Glen, Alexander, and Salt Springs or kayak through shaded creeks, or hike for hours without seeing another soul.

Speaking of springs, Silver Springs State Park is one of Ocala’s crown jewels. Known for its iconic glass-bottom boat tours, this park has been attracting visitors since the 1870s. The spring itself pumps out over 500 million gallons of water a day and supports an entire ecosystem of fish, turtles, birds, and yes—occasionally monkeys (brought in decades ago for a jungle-themed attraction and now roaming free). It’s a mix of kitsch, beauty, and surprise that pretty much sums up Ocala’s charm.

Looking for adventure?  The Canyons Zipline and Adventure Park offers ziplining and horseback riding in the canyons created by the mining of limestone.

Downtown Ocala has quietly transformed in recent years. The historic square has been revitalized with new restaurants, craft breweries, and boutique shops, but it hasn’t lost its old-school character. The courthouse, shaded oaks, and century-old buildings give it a classic Southern feel, while new events—from First Friday Art Walks to food truck rallies—keep the energy fresh.

Fort King is a typical US Army frontier fort built in 1827 during tensions between settlers and the Seminole tribes. Fort King Road led to Fort Brooke on Tampa Bay. In December 1835, a US Army column led by Major Francis Date left Fort Brooke in Tampa to reinforce Fort King. The column was ambushed and killed by Seminole warriors  near Webster and on that same day a group of raiders assassinated a US official at Fort King. These two actions marked the beginning of the Second Seminole War in Florida.

The cost of living here is lower than in most major Florida cities, and that’s drawn in a wave of new residents—young families, retirees, and remote workers looking for space, nature, and affordability. But Ocala hasn’t rushed to change. It’s growing, sure, but thoughtfully. Locals value what makes it different: the sense of space, the slower pace, the connection to land and animals.

In a state full of tourist traps and overbuilt beachfronts, Ocala stands out for its authenticity. It doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not. It’s just Ocala—horses, history, forests, and fresh air. And that’s more than enough.

Thinking of visiting? Viator offers numerous tours in Florida.  Click here for details. vi.me/0yyUX

For more information on wineries, distilleries, and craft breweries in the area visit https://flbwd.com 

Glass bottom boat at Silver Springs on the Silver River

Salt Springs in the Ocala National Forest

Salt Springs Run boat ramp

Ziplining in the Canyons

One of the lakes in the Canyons

Fort King National Historic Landmark