Attractions and Places To See around Ocala - Top 12

Ocala is rich in natural beauty, offering numerous springs and expansive national forests. Key natural attractions include Silver Springs State Park, known for its glass-bottom boat tours and wildlife, and the vast Ocala National Forest, which features crystal-clear springs like Juniper Springs, Rainbow Springs, and Alexander Springs. You can also visit Sholom Park for peaceful gardens or Scott Springs Park for serene walking trails.

Yes, Ocala offers several family-friendly options. Silver Springs State Park is excellent for families, with glass-bottom boat tours and wildlife viewing. The Cross Florida Greenway and Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway offer multi-use trails suitable for all ages. Many springs within Ocala National Forest, such as Rainbow Springs, are perfect for swimming and tubing. Tuscawilla Park also provides playgrounds and picnic areas.

Ocala provides extensive opportunities for hiking and cycling. For mountain biking, the Santos Trail is a popular choice with trails for various skill levels. The 49th Avenue Tract offers varied terrain for hikers, runners, and bikers. The Cross Florida Greenway and Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway are ideal for longer cycling and hiking adventures. You can find more detailed routes in the Hiking around Ocala and Cycling around Ocala guides.

Ocala boasts several historical and cultural attractions. Explore Historic Downtown Ocala with its charming brick-lined streets and Victorian-style gazebo. The Appleton Museum of Art houses an impressive collection spanning various periods and cultures. You can also visit the Marion County Museum of History & Archaeology to learn about the region's past, or the Fort King National Historic Landmark, which preserves a significant site from the Second Seminole War.

Absolutely, Ocala is famously known as the 'Horse Capital of the World.' The World Equestrian Center Ocala is a premier facility hosting various equestrian events. You can also visit the Gypsy Gold Horse Farm to learn about and interact with rare Gypsy Vanner horses, or follow the Painted Horse Trail to see unique horse statues displayed throughout the area.

Wildlife viewing is a highlight in Ocala. At Silver Springs State Park, visitors often spot alligators, monkeys, turtles, and various fish species, especially from the glass-bottom boats. The Ocala National Forest is home to Florida black bears, scrub jays, alligators, and white-tailed deer. Keep an eye out for deer and other animals along trails like the 49th Avenue Tract and the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway.

Yes, Boardwalk Trail in Silver Springs State Park is noted for being wheelchair accessible, offering views of the springs and wildlife. This allows visitors with mobility considerations to enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

The cooler, drier months from late fall through spring (roughly November to April) are generally considered the best time to visit Ocala for outdoor activities. The temperatures are more comfortable for hiking, cycling, and exploring the springs and forests, avoiding the intense heat and humidity of summer.

Yes, Ocala is famous for its clear, cool springs perfect for swimming and tubing. Rainbow Springs State Park is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and tubing, with its constant 72-degree water. Alexander Springs and Salt Springs within the Ocala National Forest also offer excellent opportunities for swimming and water activities.

Beyond the well-known springs, Paradise Springs offers a unique experience for scuba divers, featuring cavern walls with prehistoric fossils. Sholom Park provides a peaceful, landscaped oasis for introspection away from more bustling attractions. The various smaller springs within the Ocala National Forest, like Salt Springs, also offer a more secluded natural experience.

Yes, Ocala is home to the renowned Santos Trail, a dedicated mountain bike park. It features a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels, ensuring an enjoyable experience for both beginners and experienced riders. The 49th Avenue Tract also provides trails that are popular with mountain bikers.

For road cyclists, Ocala offers several scenic routes. You can explore loops like the Silver Springs loop or longer rides such as the West Ocala Half Century loop. These routes often take you through picturesque landscapes around the region. More options can be found in the Road Cycling Routes around Ocala guide.