Things To Do
in Ocala
Ocala is a charming city located in central Florida, known for its picturesque horse farms and beautiful natural landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the many opportunities for hiking, biking, and bird-watching in the surrounding area. The city also boasts a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
With its warm climate and friendly community, Ocala is a great place to visit or call home.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful walk at Silver Springs State Park. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and spot some wildlife along the trails.
Have lunch at a local café before heading to the Ocala National Forest. Spend the afternoon hiking or picnicking in the lush surroundings.
Wind down with a casual dinner at a restaurant in downtown Ocala. Enjoy the local ambiance and perhaps catch some live music.
Visit the Florida Horse Park to learn about Ocala's equestrian culture. Watch a morning training session or take a guided tour.
Grab a bite at a nearby diner before heading to the historic district. Explore the charming shops and galleries that reflect the area's rich heritage.
Dine at a horse-themed restaurant to continue the equestrian experience. Relax with a cocktail while reflecting on a day filled with horse activities.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich equestrian culture and numerous horse farms.
- Mild climate and beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and lakes.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other cities in Florida.
- Access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing.
- Growing community with increasing amenities and services.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Can experience high humidity and heat during the summer months.
- Some areas may have a higher crime rate.
- Less urban compared to larger Florida cities, leading to fewer entertainment options.
- Employment opportunities can be more limited in specialized fields.
Best Activities in Ocala
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the numerous hiking trails and scenic landscape of the Ocala National Forest, including the popular Florida Trail.
Enjoy a peaceful paddle along the pristine Silver River, known for its clear waters and abundant wildlife, including monkeys and manatees.
Experience the adrenaline-pumping mountain bike trails at Santos Trailhead, featuring a variety of terrains for all skill levels.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ocala with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ocala
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the surrounding wetlands and is a great place for wildlife photography.
Known for its glass-bottom boat tours, where visitors can capture unique underwater views and beautiful natural scenery.
Encompasses various scenic trails, springs, and lakes, providing ample photography opportunities amid nature.
Food in Ocala
Ocala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved Southern dish featuring plump, juicy shrimp served with creamy stone-ground grits, often infused with smoky bacon flavors. Best enjoyed at the Ivy House or Brooklyn's Backyard.
Must-Try!
A quintessential Florida dessert made from tangy key lime juice, nestled in a graham cracker crust and topped with velvety meringue or whipped cream. Visit the Ocala Downtown Market for delightful variations of this iconic dessert.
A flavorful sandwich with layers of ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami pressed between crispy, toasted Cuban bread. The Mojo Grill and Catering Co. is renowned for its delectable Cuban sandwiches.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ocala better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This lively market is a treasure trove of local produce, artisanal treats, and diverse food stalls serving everything from gourmet empanadas to aromatic Jamaican jerk chicken.
A hub of street food delights, offering a fusion of Southern and Caribbean flavors, including tender smoked meats, zesty jambalaya, and indulgent beignets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ocala, it is customary to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when in line or in crowded places.
Punctuality is highly valued in Ocala, so it's important to be on time for social gatherings, meetings, and appointments.
Using polite language and manners is important in Ocala. Saying please, thank you, and excuse me are generally expected in social interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ocala with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ocala
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Ocala, United States, especially in the service industry. It is customary to tip servers at restaurants around 15-20% of the total bill. Tipping is also expected for other service providers such as taxi drivers, hairdressers, and hotel staff.
Payment practices in Ocala, United States are similar to other parts of the country. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and cash is also commonly used. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming increasingly popular. Checks are also accepted at many places, but may be less common in certain establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Ocala when the weather is warm, flowers are in bloom, and outdoor activities are enjoyable.
Expect hot and humid weather, perfect for water activities and outdoor adventures.
Mild weather with colorful foliage, ideal for hiking and exploring the outdoors.
Cooler temperatures, great for horseback riding and other outdoor activities without the heat.
Ocala at Night
Hiking in Ocala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park featuring various trails, waterways, and abundant wildlife, perfect for hiking and nature observation.
A vast corridor that stretches across the state, offering multiple trails for hiking, biking, and equestrian use.
Home to numerous trails, this national forest features scenic views, lakes, and a variety of terrains for hikers of all skill levels.
A serene area with trails that offer a mix of pine and hardwood forests, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
A lesser-known spot with trails that provide a peaceful hiking experience in a natural setting.
Aiports
How to reach Ocala by plane.
The primary airport serving the Orlando area and one of the busiest airports in the United States, located approximately 75 miles southeast of Ocala.
Located about 90 miles southwest of Ocala, it serves the Tampa Bay area and is a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Approximately 90 miles northeast of Ocala, this airport serves the Jacksonville area and offers a wide range of flight options.
Located about 100 miles southwest of Ocala, it provides service to the Sarasota and Bradenton areas with various domestic and limited international flights.
Situated roughly 60 miles east of Ocala, this airport serves the Daytona Beach area and primarily offers domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Ocala, comprising a significant portion of the local population.
The second-largest demographic group, contributing to the cultural diversity of Ocala.
A growing demographic group in Ocala, representing various countries and cultures.
A smaller demographic group, including individuals from various Asian backgrounds.
A minority group in Ocala, reflecting the historical presence of Indigenous peoples.
A small demographic group within Ocala, representing individuals from Pacific Island nations.
An increasing demographic reflecting the diversity of mixed-race individuals in Ocala.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ocala is known as the Horse Capital of the World, with numerous horse racing events and thoroughbred farms.
With a variety of courses available, golf is a popular sport in Ocala, attracting both residents and tourists.
Soccer has gained popularity in Ocala, with youth leagues and adult recreational leagues available.
Tennis is widely played in Ocala, featuring several public and private courts and local leagues.
With access to lakes and rivers, fishing is a cherished pastime in and around Ocala.
Both youth and adult basketball leagues are active, making it a popular sport among the community.
High school football games bring the community together and are a significant part of local culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ocala.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ocala boasts a variety of establishments with dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus, such as Marks Prime Steakhouse and Raw Vegan Cafe, ensuring that plant-based diners can savor sumptuous meals.
For those seeking gluten-free fare, eateries like Ivy on the Square and Peach's at SR 200 offer thoughtful menus featuring gluten-free options, from fluffy pancakes to hearty pastas.