When the sun goes down in Ocala

When the sun goes down, Ocala gets its second wind. Neighborhood bars and pubs are popular, of course, but if your tastes run deeper, check out our other Ocala nightlife selections. Whatever your inclination, sit at the bar and relax with a cold beer, a glass of pinot noir, or a classic martini, and be sure to chat with whoever happens to be nearby, you may make a new friend or a valuable business contact. Our guide includes the hottest Ocala clubs and bars as well as the coziest hole-in-the-wall spots.

Attractions & Activities

About Ocala Attractions & Activities

Ocala is home to an appealing variety of historic buildings, museums, and interesting sightseeing opportunities. Stroll through Ocala's sights on your own, or take a more organized approach to your Ocala sightseeing by checking on local tours. Take advantage of Ocala attractions and those in the surrounding area, both indoors and out. From a simple picnic or afternoon retreat to the park to a technical hike, a round of golf, or a more adventurous sport, there are plenty of Ocala activities to keep you busy.

Wild Waters Waterpark

Above and beyond typical aquatic parks, Wild Waters offers not only a wealth of cool-down attractions but a picturesque setting of stately oak and palm trees. A huge wave pool, a children's play lagoon, a shallow toddler area and several high-energy flumes and waterslides number among the top attractions. Other components include an arcade, food vendors, volleyball courts and changing areas with showers and lockers. Given its proximity to Silver Springs, the park offers special combination tickets that make both destinations particularly affordable.

Silver Springs

One of the area's most productive freshwater springs, Silver Springs feeds the Silver River and has been a major tourist destination since the late 19th century. These days, the park offers plenty to do, and its glass-bottom boats grant a window into the clear waters and to their marine inhabitants. The park also offers a jungle cruise, live animal exhibits local wildlife, botanical gardens, a playground, petting zoo, Jeep safari and country music concerts. The 350-acre complex is certain to please, whether you appreciate natural beauty or man-made fun.

Ocala Speedway

After the serenity of Ocal Forest and the horse farms have replenished your desire for quiet, head to this speedway for a blast of engine-revving and exhaust fumes. Activity at the low-banked, 3/8-mile asphalt track will feed your need for speed as you cheer the maneuvers of drivers vying for victory. Classes that typically race include street stock, super late model and V8 bomber, although you can also catch UPM Pro Modifieds and the Tuff Truck Series. Friday night events are planned to be especially family-friendly.

Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

If you own classic cars, love hot rods, or just have an abiding admiration for them, this museum is a great find. The complex traces the history of drag racing, features all sorts of artifacts and memorabilia (including dealer's banners), and showcases a number of vintage vehicles. In fact, you can catch sight of President Dwight Eisenhower's own 1956 Chrysler Imperial! In addition, Don Garlits' own racing milestones and achievements are highlighted.

Appleton Museum of Art

This elegant museum, clean-lined and swathed in travertine, was created in 1987 to house the holdings of Chicago businessman Arthur I. Appleton. In the years since, its purpose has grown, and its gallery space has increased to 34,000 square feet, but the museum's reputation remains strong. Collections feature both ancient and contemporary art, along with holdings representing Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and pre-Colombian America.