Only In Ocala is a local business directory for Ocala and Marion County, Florida, featuring 741 business listings, 395 upcoming events, and local news. We serve Ocala and surrounding communities in horse country with expert local knowledge and a rigorous 7-step verification process for every listing.
What is Ocala, Florida?
Ocala is a city in Marion County, Florida, and has been the county seat since 1846, according to the City of Ocala. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates its population at 71,753 as of July 1, 2025. Marion County is known as horse country.
Ocala is also called the Brick City: after a fire nearly destroyed the center of town on Thanksgiving Day in 1883, it was rebuilt in brick. Sources: City of Ocala history, U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts.
What are the top things to do in Ocala?
The top things to do in Ocala are the glass bottom boats at Silver Springs State Park, a horse show at the World Equestrian Center, the downtown square, the springs of the Ocala National Forest and Rainbow Springs, and the Appleton Museum of Art. The ten below link to our full guides.
- 1Silver Springs State ParkGlass bottom boat tours on the Silver River, kayaking and trails; $8 per vehicle.
- 2World Equestrian CenterThe largest equestrian complex in the United States, with horse shows, dining, shops and a spa.
- 3Downtown Ocala squareThe historic Brick City center, with the Saturday Ocala Downtown Market nearby.
- 4Ocala National ForestMore than 600 lakes and rivers, plus Juniper Springs and Silver Glen Springs.
- 5Rainbow Springs State ParkA first-magnitude spring in Dunnellon for swimming, tubing and paddling.
- 6Appleton Museum of ArtA College of Central Florida museum with more than 24,000 objects; free on First Saturdays.
- 7Reilly Arts CenterOcala Symphony Orchestra concerts, plus films and comedy at its Marion Theatre downtown.
- 8Sholom ParkA privately owned garden park, free and open to the public every day from 8 a.m.
- 9Ocala Discovery CenterThe city's hands-on children's science center at Tuscawilla Park.
- 10The Canyons Zip Line & Adventure ParkZip lines, horseback rides and kayaking across two canyons and four lakes.
The full list, with addresses, hours and a day-by-area plan, is in our guide to things to do in Ocala, Florida. Also see free things to do, things to do with kids and the best restaurants in Ocala.
What is on in Ocala this fall and holiday season?
- Ocali Country Days FestivalNov 7 to Nov 8, Silver Springs State Park — Silver River Museum. $10 per person; children 5 and under free (park admission free)
- Free First SaturdayNov 7, Appleton Museum of Art. Free
- Light Up Ocala 2026Nov 21, Downtown Ocala Square. Free
- 23rd Annual Symphony Under the LightsDec 4, Tuscawilla Park. Free
- Festival at Fort KingDec 5 to Dec 6, Fort King National Historic Landmark. Free
- Ocala Christmas Parade 2026: A Red, White, and Blue ChristmasDec 12, Ocala Christmas Parade Route (start: SE 25th Ave & SE Fort King St). See website for details
More dates: this season in Ocala and the full events calendar.
Voting in the Nov. 3, 2026 general election? Early voting sites, hours, ID rules and what is on the ballot are in our Marion County voting guide.
What's Happening in Ocala
Stay informed with the latest stories from Marion County
Ocala Electric Utility's City Path Job Program and Outreach Win Two Statewide Public Power Awards
Ocala Electric Utility, the city-owned power company, received two statewide awards from the Florida Municipal Electric Association at its Energy Conn...
For the 20th Year, Marion County Students Will Run the County's Official Veterans Day Ceremony on Nov. 11
Niagara Bottling Will Close Its Ocala Plant on Dec. 31, and 57 Workers Will Lose Their Jobs
Marion County's Magnet and Career Academy Applications Open Nov. 12, the Same Night Families Can Meet the Programs at WEC
Local Events & Recurring Activities
Discover exciting events happening in Ocala and Marion County. From weekly markets to special celebrations, there's always something happening in horse country.
His House for Her, Inc. holds a ribbon cutting and open house on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 2 PM at 1471 Pine Rd. in Ocala. The ribbon cutting starts at 10:30 AM, followed by a tour of the house and of th
General contractor Townsley Construction cuts the ribbon on its new model home, the Wyrick II, on Friday, November 6, 2026, at 2405 SE 36th Ave. in southeast Ocala, near Jervey Gantt Park. The ribbon cutting starts at 2:
The Marion Cultural Alliance opens Becoming, an exhibition by Heather Dawn Batchelor and Valarie Lacefield, with a reception on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. at MCA's The Brick Gallery, 23 SW Broadway Street
The City of Ocala Cultural Arts division presents the First Friday Art Walk on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. in Historic Downtown Ocala, centered on the Downtown Square along SE Broadway Street. The free eve
The 42nd Annual Ocklawaha River Raid Civil War reenactment returns to [Florida Horse Park](/florida-horse-park-ocala), 11008 S. Highway 475 in Ocala, from Friday, November 6 through Sunday, November 8, 2026. Florida Hors
The Circle Square Cultural Center hosts Gary Puckett and the Union Gap on Friday, November 6, 2026 at 7:00 PM. The performance is held at the [Circle Square Cultural Center](/circle-square-cultural-center), 8395 SW 80th
The Ocala Food & Wine Festival returns to the [World Equestrian Center](/businesses/world-equestrian-center), 1750 NW 80th Ave in Ocala, for its sixth year, November 6 through 8, 2026. The weekend opens Friday, November
The Marion County Building Industry Association (MCBIA) presents the 2026 Parade of Homes, a self-guided tour of new model homes built by MCBIA member builders across Ocala and Marion County. The first of two weekends ru
World Equestrian Center - Ocala hosts a Gator Reception & Fireside Chat on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. on The Polo Pony patio at the WEC campus, 1750 NW 80th Ave in Ocala. The featured guest is Sean Kelley
The Florida Department of Health in Marion County (DOH-Marion) brings its 3D mobile mammography bus to the Silver Springs Shores Community Center, 590 Silver Road in Ocala, on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 4 p
Marion County Parks and Recreation hosts the Forest Community Yard Sale on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Forest Community Center at Sandhill Park, 777 S County Road 314A in Ocklawaha. The monthly
Featured Local Businesses
Discover exceptional businesses that make Ocala special
Notice Me Marketing and Media
Notice Me Marketing and Media stands as Central Florida's premier full-service marketing and promotional products company, transforming businesses through innovative marketing solutions, custom appare
What Can You Do in Ocala, Florida?
From outdoor adventures and world-class dining to equestrian events and family fun — explore our comprehensive guides to life in Marion County.
Things to Do in Ocala
260+ activities and attractions — natural springs, horse farm tours, hiking trails, family fun, nightlife, and seasonal events.
Best Restaurants in Ocala
600+ dining options from fine dining and downtown favorites to BBQ, seafood, international cuisine, and casual eats.
World Equestrian Center
Visitor guide to WEC: free spectating, show dates, Winter Wonderland, dining, and what to expect.
Ocala National Forest
607 sq mi of wilderness — hiking trails, camping, natural springs, swimming, fishing, and off-roading.
Ocala Events Calendar
Live events calendar updated weekly — festivals, concerts, equestrian shows, farmers markets, and community gatherings.
Cities Near Ocala
Explore nearby cities and communities — distances, drive times, and what to do in the surrounding area.
Everything You Need to Know About Ocala
Get answers to the most common questions about living, visiting, and doing business in Florida's Horse Country
Still Have Questions?
Can't find what you're looking for? We're here to help you learn more about Ocala and Marion County.
What Legal and Insurance Resources Are Available in Marion County?
Educational information about legal and insurance topics for Marion County residents. These resources are for informational purposes only - always consult qualified professionals.
Elder Law Information
Comprehensive guide to elder law topics including healthcare directives, long-term care planning, and senior rights protection.
Wills & Trusts Information
Learn about estate planning documents, revocable trusts, and testamentary planning options for Marion County residents.
Probate Process Information
Understanding the probate process in Marion County Circuit Court and how proper planning can affect estate administration.
Home Insurance Information
Home insurance considerations for Ocala homeowners, Florida-specific requirements, and local factors affecting coverage.
Auto Insurance Information
Auto insurance requirements for Marion County drivers, Florida laws, and coverage options to consider.
Umbrella Insurance Information
Learn about umbrella coverage that provides additional liability protection beyond standard insurance limits.
Important Disclaimer: All information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or insurance advice. For guidance specific to your situation, consult with qualified professionals in Marion County.
Explore by Topic
Browse curated content areas in Ocala
Everything equestrian in horse country
Historic downtown Ocala dining, shopping, and entertainment
Parks, trails, springs, and outdoor recreation in Marion County
Professional services and business support in Marion County
Festivals, celebrations, and community gatherings
City and county government services, officials, and civic engagement
How Can You Stay Connected with Ocala?
Get the latest updates on new businesses, upcoming events, and exclusive local insights from horse country.
Subscribe to NewsletterOnly In Ocala is a local directory for Ocala and Marion County, Florida, with 741 business listings, 395 upcoming events, and guides to dining, outdoor recreation, and community life. Ocala, the county seat of Marion County, is known for horse country, natural springs such as Silver Springs State Park FL, and the World Equestrian Center. Start with our guide to things to do in Ocala, Florida.
- -741 local business listings across dining, services, shopping, and professional categories
- -395 upcoming community events including equestrian shows, festivals, and live entertainment
- -Curated guides to natural springs, horse farms, downtown dining, and Marion County neighborhoods