things to do in ocala fl

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

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 Butterfly House: A tropical garden featuring a butterfly pavilion, a children’s play area, and a variety of plant species.
7. Morningside Nature Center: A 12-acre nature preserve with hiking trails, a butterfly garden, and opportunities for birdwatching.
8. Ocala Civic Theatre: A community theater that hosts a variety of productions, including musicals, plays, and children’s shows.
9. Silver River: A scenic river that offers kayaking, canoeing, and fishing opportunities.
10. Ocala Mall: A large shopping mall with a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Outdoor Activities:

1. Horseback riding: Ocala is known for its horse farms and offers guided horseback rides through the countryside.
2. Fishing: The city has numerous lakes, rivers, and streams that are stocked with fish, including bass, catfish, and trout.
3. Kayaking and canoeing: Rent equipment and explore the Silver River, Lake Weir, or other nearby waterways.
4. Biking: Ocala has numerous bike trails, including the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway and the Ocala National Forest trails.
5. Hiking: Explore the Ocala National Forest, the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, or other nearby parks and nature preserves.

Family-Friendly Activities:

1. Ocala Children’s Museum: A interactive museum featuring hands-on exhibits and play areas.
2. Gatorland: A theme park and wildlife preserve that showcases alligators, birds, and other animals.
3. Ocala Zoo: A small zoo featuring a variety of animals, including tigers, bears, and monkeys.
4. Lake Weir: A scenic lake that offers boat rentals, fishing, and swimming.
5. Ocala’s Downtown Area: A charming area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

History and Culture:

1. Fort King: A historic site that showcases the city’s military history.
2. Ocala Historic District: A charming area with historic homes, churches, and other buildings.
3. Museum of Art and History: A museum featuring exhibits on local history, art, and culture.
4. Ocala’s Downtown Art Walk: A monthly event featuring local artists, live music, and food vendors.
5. Historic Downtown Ocala: A charming area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Ocala, FL. The city offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests.