When most people think of Florida, they picture neon-lit South Beach or the manufactured magic of Orlando. But Ocala? Ocala is different. It’s "Old Florida" without the mothballs. Honestly, if you show up here expecting nothing but flat scrubland and retirement communities, you’re in for a massive surprise.
Basically, Ocala is the adventure capital that nobody told you about. It’s got deep canyons (yes, in Florida), rhesus monkeys swinging through the trees, and a horse culture so intense it puts Kentucky to shame. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend refresh or a traveler trying to find the "real" Florida, there are enough things to do in Ocala to keep your schedule packed for weeks.
The Glass-Bottom Mystery of Silver Springs
You’ve probably seen the photos, but they don't do it justice. Silver Springs State Park is the crown jewel here. It’s one of the largest artesian spring formations in the world, pumping out hundreds of millions of gallons of crystal-clear water every day.
The glass-bottom boats have been running since the late 1870s. That’s not a typo. You glide over these deep blue "abysses" where the water is so clear it feels like the boat is floating in mid-air. You’ll see ancient statues—leftovers from 1960s movie sets like Creature from the Black Lagoon—and massive manatees that look like floating boulders.
But here’s the kicker: the monkeys. Legend has it a boat captain released a colony of Rhesus macaques on an island in the 1930s, thinking they couldn't swim. He was wrong. Now, they thrive along the riverbanks. Seeing a wild monkey in the middle of a Florida pine forest is a surreal experience that never gets old.
Beyond the Boat
- Kayaking the Silver River: If you want to get closer to the manatees, rent a kayak. It’s a five-mile paddle, and if you’re lucky, a manatee might actually swim right under your hull.
- The Museum: Don't skip the Silver River Museum on the weekends. It’s got mammoth bones found right in the river.
Canyons and Cliffs (Wait, in Florida?)
Most people think Florida is as flat as a pancake. The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park proves that theory dead wrong. This place is built on an old lime rock quarry, which left behind massive 100-foot cliffs and deep turquoise lakes.
It’s easily the most "un-Florida" landscape in the state.
You can zip across the "Big Cliff Canyon" on a line that’s over 1,100 feet long. If you aren't a fan of heights, they also do horseback tours through the canyon floor. It feels more like a scene from Arizona than the Sunshine State. Honestly, the view from the top during the "Full Moon" night zips is something you’ll be talking about for years.
Living the "Horse Capital" Life
Ocala isn't just called the Horse Capital of the World for marketing. It’s a literal fact. There are over 600 thoroughbred farms here. The limestone-rich soil creates strong bones in horses, which is why so many Kentucky Derby winners were raised on these rolling green hills.
The World Equestrian Center (WEC)
This place is essentially the "Disney World for Horses." It’s a $1 billion facility that opened recently, and even if you don't own a horse, you have to go.
It’s massive.
The indoor arenas are climate-controlled and fancier than most luxury hotels. You can grab a craft cocktail at The Yellow Pony Pub, watch Olympic-level show jumping for free, and then wander into Miss Tilly’s Lollipops for a sugar rush. On Saturday nights, the Grand Prix events under the lights are electric. The best part? Admission is usually free for spectators.
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Farm Tours
If you want to get "behind the gates," book a tour with Gypsy Gold Horse Farm. They introduced the Gypsy Vanner breed to America. These horses look like they stepped out of a fairytale with their long, flowing manes and feathered feet. Seeing them in person is a "core memory" kind of moment.
Downtown Ocala: The Square and the Spirits
When the sun starts to dip, everyone heads to the Ocala Historic Downtown Square. It’s the heartbeat of the city.
The vibe is very walkable and surprisingly sophisticated. You’ve got Infinite Ale Works for some of the best craft beer in Central Florida (try the West Coast IPA if they have it on tap). If you’re hungry, Ivy On The Square serves up Southern comfort food that actually tastes like your grandma made it—if your grandma was a world-class chef.
Don't miss the "Walk of Champions." There are 24 bronze plaques embedded in the sidewalks honoring famous local horses. It’s a great way to kill 20 minutes while waiting for a table at Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille.
Hidden Gems Most Tourists Miss
Most people stick to the big-name parks, but if you want to dodge the crowds, you’ve got to dig a little deeper.
- Sholom Park: This is a 44-acre botanical "peace park." It’s designed for silence and reflection. No running, no loud music, just winding trails through ginger gardens and oak hammocks. It’s the perfect spot to reset your brain.
- Ocala National Forest: This is the southernmost forest in the continental U.S. It’s huge. If you’re into "overlanding" or off-roading, the "Tread Lightly" trails here are legendary.
- Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing: Even if you aren't a "car person," this place is fascinating. It houses the private collection of "Big Daddy" Don Garlits, the king of drag racing. It’s loud, it’s chrome, and it’s pure Americana.
Practical Insights for Your Visit
Ocala is best explored by car. Public transit isn't really a thing here. If you’re coming in the summer, hit the springs early. By 10:00 AM, the parking lots at Silver Springs and Rainbow Springs often hit capacity and they will turn you away.
Also, keep an eye on the weather. In Central Florida, it’s going to rain at 3:00 PM almost every day in July. Plan your outdoor adventures for the morning and your museum visits for the afternoon.
One last thing: respect the wildlife. Those rhesus monkeys look cute, but they are wild animals. Keep your distance, don't feed them, and definitely don't try to take a selfie with one.
Actionable Next Steps:
To make the most of your trip, start by downloading the OcalaMarion Travel Guide App. It has the full map of the Painted Horse statues scattered around town. Next, check the World Equestrian Center calendar to see if there’s a Saturday night Grand Prix during your stay—it’s the single best free event in the city. Finally, book your Silver Springs glass-bottom boat tickets at least 48 hours in advance if you're visiting on a weekend, as the "Extended Tour" sells out fast.