Discover fun things to do in Ocala, the heart of central Florida
Book a comfortable room or suite at the Country Inn & Suites, Ocala, FL to stay within easy reach of Historic Downtown Ocala, where you can shop the boutiques, dine on locally sourced cuisine, or take a romantic carriage ride with Horse Country Carriage Company & Tours. If you’re here for a family vacation, the kids will love the interactive science exhibits at the Discovery Center, and you can’t go wrong with a visit to Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing. Of course, any trip to Ocala wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the area’s top things to do outdoors, from glass-bottom boat outings at Silver Springs State Park to hiking, fishing, or waterskiing in Ocala National Forest.
Select what to see in a map
- Culture
- Family
- Nature
- Shopping
Appleton Museum of Art
7.52 mi / 12.11 km from the hotelWith 30,000 square feet of permanent gallery space, the Appleton Museum of Art boasts an impressive collection of art ranging from pre-Columbian pottery to contemporary American paintings.
Silver Springs State Park
9.02 mi / 14.51 km from the hotelSince the 1870s, Silver Springs State Park has been a relaxing destination for enjoying nature via glass-bottom boat, kayak, or canoe.
Historic Downtown Ocala
3.7 mi / 5.95 km from the hotelStroll hand-in-hand as you explore the sights of Ocala’s bustling downtown, which offers delicious farm-to-table restaurants, charming boutiques, and art galleries. For some rainy day fun, catch a film at the art deco Marion Theatre.
Cactus Jack's Trail Rides
6.5 mi / 10.47 km from the hotelBook a ride at Cactus Jack's to take a relaxing horseback trip through the Cross Florida Greenway Trail system. There's no need to worry about the heat since the trails are 75% shaded.
The Canyons Zip Line & Adventure Park
8.26 mi / 13.29 km from the hotelMake a reservation for one of Canyons’ thrilling zip line tours that takes you soaring through the trees at over 130 feet in the air.
Discovery Center
4.41 mi / 7.09 km from the hotelTake the whole family to the Discovery Center where you can go on an educational nature walk or browse interactive exhibits.
Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing
8.98 mi / 14.45 km from the hotelDon Garlits Museum of Drag Racing is home to the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame and nearly 300 cars, including 90 race cars and 50 antique cars.
Market Street at Heath Brook
0.89 mi / 1.43 km from the hotelLooking to add to your wardrobe, jewelry box, or home décor collection? Head to this premier outdoor shopping center, home to a variety of stores, including DICK'S Sporting Goods, Dillard's, and Chico's.
Ocala National Forest
27.34 mi / 44 km from the hotelSpanning almost 383,000 acres, the Ocala National Forest features more than 600 lakes, rivers, and springs. A myriad of outdoor activities includes fishing, camping, hiking, and waterskiing.
Paddock Mall
0.86 mi / 1.38 km from the hotelFind more than 60 stores at this indoor mall featuring all your favorite retailers, from Belk and Macy’s to Foot Locker and Lane Bryant. Top off your shopping spree with a sweet treat from Auntie Anne’s Pretzels or Starbucks.
Horse Country Carriage Tours
9.23 mi / 14.85 km from the hotelLocated on beautiful Kimberden Farm, this carriage company offers horse-drawn carriage tours through paths lined with live oaks and palm trees.