Summer is almost here and you are probably wondering, “What is there to do here in Ocala?”
Located in central north Florida, there are tons of fun activities that can keep you and your family busy this whole summer. From outdoor adventures to historic parks to museums, this beautiful city of Ocala has so much to offer. Here are some of our top picks:

World Equestrian Center

The World Equestrian Center is the largest equestrian complex in the United States. It offers a rare combination of class and capacity with holding a world-class, multi-indoor and outdoor area facility. They offer amenities to accommodate multiple disciplines within the equine industry.
Link for Upcoming Events: https://worldequestriancenter.com/events/?loc=1248&type=1252

The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park

Zipline over forests and lakes, go horseback riding, kayak, or search for gems at The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park. They not only provide thrilling experiences, but an immersive connection with nature. The view of the plunging cliffs and sparkling waters in the canyon will make your trip unforgettable.

Explore Ocala’s State Parks

Ocala is home to countless scenic parks, springs, and rivers. Here are some we love:

Silver Springs State Park
Keep yourself busy at Silver Springs State Park with tons of activities that they offer. Stay for the day and go on the Glass Bottom Boat tours, hike the trails, visit the Silver River Museum, dine at the Springside Restaurant, and rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. Or turn your day-trip into a mini vacation by planning a camping trip at one of their cabins or RV & tent campsite.

Rainbow Springs State Park
One of Florida’s most popular state parks, Rainbow Springs, is a great place to enjoy nature. It is an ideal spring for swimming, tubing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Guests can also enjoy hiking down the trails to view the beautiful waterfalls, fishing, picnicking, and camping.

Ocala National Forest
Become one with nature at the Ocala National Forest. Activities include: boating, mountain biking, hiking, hunting, fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, camping, horseback riding, and much more. The adventures here are limitless.

Fort Kings National Historic Park
From being a typical U.S. Army frontier fort to now a noteworthy symbol of the Seminole War, Fort Kings National Historic Park speaks a narrative of the history this fort holds. Visitors can learn its history through their events and programs, trail, heritage garden and more.

Indoor Activities

Whether it’s the summer afternoon storms or the summer heat, Ocala contains plenty of indoor activities that will keep you refreshed and dry this summer. Here are list of fun things to do indoors in Ocala:

Museums

Ocala is a city that holds plenty of history, and what is a better way to learn more about your city than to visit its local museums.

Appleton Museum of Art
With about 18,000 objects displayed, the Appleton Museum of Art holds European, American, Asian, African, Contemporary and pre-Columbian art and artifacts, along with a growing collection of works from Florida artists, who project their work on the history and culture of the Central Florida community.

Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing
Want to learn more about the sport of drag racing? Well, this is the place to visit. Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing opened in 1976 and is home to the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame. Containing over 300 drag race cars and chronological history about the sport, the average tour takes about 2-3 hours. Photos are welcomed.

Theatres

Catch a live performance or show at any of Ocala’s local theatres.

Ocala Civic Theatre
For over entertaining the community for over 70 years, the Ocala Civic Theatre (OCT) holds professional live performances from their talented volunteers, staff, and guest designers. They also accommodate their Education & Enrichment programs that reach more than 1,000 learners of all ages through skill-building and performance classes.
Link for Upcoming Events: https://ocalacivictheatre.com/oct-tickets/

Reilly Arts Center
The Reilly Arts Center is not only the home of the Ocala Symphony Orchestra, but a venue that hosts an assortment of events, concerts, meetings, and parties, making it the hub for the arts in Ocala.
Link for Upcoming Events: https://www.reillyartscenter.com/events/