things to do in ocala

Ocala, Florida, is a charming city known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and rich history. Here are some things to do in Ocala:

1. Silver Springs State Park: A 460-acre park featuring crystal-clear springs, hiking trails, and a historic boat tour.
2. Ocala National Forest: A vast wilderness area with hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, as well as opportunities for camping and wildlife viewing.
3. Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway: A 110-mile trail system that spans from Ocala to Lake City, perfect for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.
4. Ocala Farmers Market: A weekly market featuring local produce, crafts, and live music.
5. Fort King: A historic site that showcases the city’s military history, with reenactments, living history demonstrations, and a museum.
6. Ocala Museum of History: A museum featuring exhibits on the city’s history, art, and culture.
7. Cade Museum for Innovation and Invention: A museum showcasing the life and work of Dr. James Robert Cade, the inventor of Gatorade.
8. Ocala Botanical Gardens: A beautiful garden featuring a variety of plants, flowers, and trees, as well as a butterfly garden and a children’s play area.
9. Silver River: A scenic river that flows through the city, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or fishing.
10. Ocala Downtown: A charming area with shops, restaurants, and galleries, as well as a weekly farmers market.

Outdoor activities:

1. Horseback riding: Ocala is known for its horse farms and trails, offering guided horseback rides through the countryside.
2. Fishing: The city has numerous lakes, rivers, and streams, offering opportunities for fishing and boating.
3. Kayaking and canoeing: Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the Silver River or other nearby waterways.
4. Hiking and biking: Ocala has numerous trails, including the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, perfect for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.
5. Golfing: Ocala has numerous golf courses, including the famous Ocala National Golf Club.

Events and festivals:

1. Ocala Marathon: An annual marathon that takes place in February.
2. Ocala Food and Wine Festival: A festival featuring local food, wine, and live music, held in March.
3. Ocala Jazz Festival: A festival featuring live jazz music, held in April.
4. Ocala Christmas Parade: A festive parade and holiday celebration, held in December.
5. Ocala Farmers Market Christmas Market: A holiday market featuring local crafts, food, and live music, held in December.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Ocala. The city offers a mix of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and small-town charm, making it a great destination for visitors and residents alike.