Ocala is Florida's horse country, with more than 1,000 thoroughbred farms around town, and the gateway to Ocala National Forest and Silver Springs. Downtown Ocala Square has cafes, shops and an events lawn. The forest has clear springs such as Juniper Springs and Alexander Springs for swimming. The trip is about 80 miles (129 km) northwest from Orlando, roughly 1 hour 20 minutes by car. Take the Florida Turnpike north to I-75 north, then SR-40 or SR-200 into Ocala; about 1 hour 20 minutes. Costs: Downtown Ocala Square is free; horse farm tours about $40-$90; Ocala National Forest day-use sites about $5-$10 per vehicle. Before going, confirm hours and any closures with the operator at 352-438-2800 or www.visitocalafl.com.
| Distance | About 80 miles (129 km) northwest |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 1 hour 20 minutes by car |
| Getting there | Drive: Take the Florida Turnpike north to I-75 north, then SR-40 or SR-200 into Ocala; about 1 hour 20 minutes. No LYNX or SunRail service reaches this destination, so rent a car, book a tour or use rideshare. |
| Cost | Downtown Ocala Square is free; horse farm tours about $40-$90; Ocala National Forest day-use sites about $5-$10 per vehicle |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | 1 SE Broadway St, Ocala, FL 34471 |
How to get there
- Mode
- Rental car
- Cost
- Gas plus about $4-$8 in tolls
- Frequency
- Any time; leave early to beat I-4 traffic
- Operator
- Rental agencies at MCO or Orlando hotels
- Departure point
- Anywhere in Orlando
- Mode
- Guided tour or coach
- Cost
- Horse farm tours cost about $40-$90 per person
- Frequency
- Daily departures where available
- Operator
- Orlando tour operators (book via Viator or GetYourGuide)
- Departure point
- Selected Orlando, I-Drive and Disney area hotels
- Mode
- Rideshare one way
- Cost
- About $120-$170 each way
- Frequency
- Any time
- Operator
- Uber / Lyft
- Departure point
- Anywhere in Orlando
Location
1 SE Broadway St, Ocala, FL 34471
29.1875, -82.1401 View on map
Highlights
- Take a thoroughbred horse farm tour
- Walk downtown Ocala Square
- Swim at Juniper Springs or Alexander Springs in Ocala National Forest
- Paddle Juniper Run canoe trail
Tips for visiting
- Book farm tours ahead of time
- Combine with Silver Springs State Park on the same day
- Check springs for capacity limits on weekends
- Bring insect repellent for forest trails
When to visit
October to April for horse farms and outdoor activities. Arrive in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms in summer.
Accessibility
Downtown is flat and accessible; forest trails vary. Phone 352-438-2800.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How far is Ocala from Orlando?
About 80 miles, roughly 1 hour 20 minutes.
What is Ocala known for?
Thoroughbred horse farms and nearby freshwater springs.
Can I do it as a day trip?
Yes, especially paired with Silver Springs.