Located in central Florida, Ocala is a charming city known for its picturesque horse farms and lush landscapes. The city is often referred to as the "Horse Capital of the World" due to its abundance of thoroughbred breeding farms and equestrian events.
In addition to its equine industry, Ocala offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. The city is surrounded by numerous state parks and natural springs, making it a popular destination for hiking, kayaking, and camping.
Ocala's historic downtown area features a mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and locally-owned restaurants. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy strolling along the brick-paved streets and taking in the city's vibrant arts scene.
For those interested in history, Ocala is home to several museums and historic sites, including the Appleton Museum of Art and the Fort King Historic Site. The city also hosts annual events such as the Ocala Arts Festival and the Ocala International Film Festival, showcasing local talent and creativity.
With its mild climate, friendly community, and diverse range of attractions, Ocala is a wonderful place to visit or call home in the state of Florida. Whether you're a horse lover, outdoor enthusiast, or culture connoisseur, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this charming southern city.
What to explore:
1. Silver Springs State Park: Explore one of Florida's oldest and most popular attractions, where you can take glass-bottom boat tours, hike, kayak, and observe wildlife.
2. Ocala National Forest: Enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and birdwatching in this beautiful forest that spans over 600 square miles.
3. Appleton Museum of Art: Browse through a diverse collection of art and cultural artifacts from around the world at this museum located on the campus of the College of Central Florida.
4. Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing: Discover the history of drag racing at this museum that features over 300 vintage dragsters, hot rods, and muscle cars.
5. Historic Downtown Ocala: Stroll through the charming streets of downtown Ocala, lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
6. Ocala Breeders' Sales Company: Witness horse auctions and learn about Ocala's rich equestrian heritage at this renowned Thoroughbred sales company.
7. The Canyons Zipline and Canopy Tours: Experience an adrenaline-filled adventure by ziplining through the treetops and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding area.
8. Sholom Park: Relax and unwind in this serene botanical garden featuring walking trails, ponds, and sculptures.
9. Ocala Civic Theatre: Catch a live performance at this community theater that showcases a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year.
10. Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway: Explore over 100 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding in this scenic greenway that stretches from the Gulf of Mexico to the St. Johns River.