Ocala

Welcome to Ocala

Heavily influenced by Native American history, the city of Ocala is one of the most fascinating places to live or work in the entire country.

Many people have come to the Ocala area to learn about its vast history. Recording history in Ocala dates back all the way to the 16th century, and there is plenty to look at and check out. Ocala’s warm and mild climate makes enjoying the area’s numerous parks, trails, and open spaces a reality. Its central location provides residents and visitors with quick commutes to the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean. 

What to Love

• Packed with history
• Perfect sized town
• Ideal spot to enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities
  
  

Local Lifestyle

Ocala is a great spot for comfortably warm weather all year long. That ideal weather likely contributes to the positive vibes that radiate from the people who call this town home. Although it is located in Central Florida, Ocala is just a short drive away from several beaches. In fact, it is easy to access either the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean depending on your preferences. If you choose to head towards the Atlantic Ocean, you will pass through the Ocala National Forest, where you can view some of the most amazing national treasures that this country has to offer. 

Dining, Shopping & Entertainment

Don't miss out on the many amazing opportunities to enjoy great restaurants, shopping, and entertainment options throughout Ocala. Make sure you take in some of the local favorites while you are there. For example, it may be great to start at Mojo's Grille and Catering. This is a Mexican-American restaurant with a pub atmosphere. They also offer vegetarian options on the menu, so everyone can be satisfied with what they are ordering at this location. 

Visit Mark's Prime Steakhouse where you can get some of the best steaks that you have ever laid eyes on. It is exactly the kind of place where you will want to go if you are interested in tasting something that is savory and delicious. They pride themselves on producing dining options that are second to none for their guests.

When you decide to go for some shopping in the area, you can start at Paddock Mall. You will find all of the stores that you are familiar with in a typical mall, and you may even find a few surprises along the way. 

After you have had something great to eat and completed a little shopping, don't forget to check out The Ocala Escape. It is an escape room experience that you will surely delight in. It has all of the elements that you have come to love about an escape room, and it will keep you and your guests entertained all the way through. 

Things to Do

Ocala always has something going on that you can get involved in. You should begin by checking out the Gypsy Gold Horse Farm. There you will see beautiful horses that you can pet and interact with. You will also learn about how these horses are cared for and some of the interesting ways that they help out their human owners. 

Are you into racing? If so, you should stop by the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala. It is a great place to check out some of the sport’s history and see for yourself how the different elements of the sport come together to create an unforgettable experience for fans. 

There are a lot of fans of art and artistic expression in Ocala. Those individuals should check out the Appleton Museum of Ar. There, visitors will see many great works of art all in one location. 

Schools

Marion County Public Schools serve the community of Ocala. Distinguished schools include:

• Eighth Street Elementary School 
• Hillcrest Public School