Only In Ocala is a local business directory for Ocala and Marion County, Florida, featuring 744 business listings, 431 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. The county's tourism office markets Ocala / Marion County as The Horse Capital of the World.
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?
- 59th Annual Ocala Fine Arts Festival (FAFO)Oct 24 to Oct 25, Downtown Ocala. Free
- Spellbound Silver Festival and BallOct 30, Silver Springs State Park. $10 per person
- 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
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
7 Brew Coffee Permitted at Paddock Mall, Second Ocala Stand Planned on Maricamp; Simply Southern Lists a Paddock Mall Store
The City of Ocala issued site and building permits on Oct. 12, 2026, for a 7 Brew Coffee drive-thru stand at Paddock Mall, 3100 SW College Rd. A secon...
Brother's Keeper Opens Its Expanded Soup Kitchen With a Ribbon Cutting and Open House Nov. 17 in Ocala
Capstone Academy Lists a High School Campus on SW 20th Street, With 9th Grade Set for Fall 2027
Advance Auto Parts Sets Nov. 18 Grand Opening for New Store at 3770 SE Maricamp Road
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.
The Marion Oaks Community Center hosts its Spooktacular BOOtastic Halloween on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon at 294 Marion Oaks Lane in Marion Oaks, southwest Marion County. The center bills the mornin
The Silver Springs Shores Community Center hosts an Adult Trick or Treat Craft Fair on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 590 Silver Road in the Silver Springs Shores community of southeast Ocala. The
Combat Veterans to Careers holds the Stars, Strings and Swings Veteran Golf Tournament on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at The Club at Iron Lake, 950 NW 75th St. in northwest Ocala. Registration opens at 8 a.m. and play be
Comedian and television personality Killer Beaz brings his Operation: Laughter Tour to Wall Rives American Legion Post 58 at 10730 US Highway 41 in Dunnellon on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The roughly
St. John Lutheran Church and School holds a Trunk or Treat on Saturday, October 24, 2026, starting at 7 p.m. on its campus at 1915 SE Lake Weir Avenue in Ocala. The event appears on the St. John Lutheran activities calen
The Fort McCoy Public Library, 14660 NE Highway 315 in Fort McCoy, presents Haunted or Not? on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at noon. The Citrus Paranormal Society presents the program, which invites participants to carry
The City of Ocala's Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E. Fort King St. in Ocala, offers a Historic Homesteading spinning class on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 1 to 5 p.m. The class is part of the landmark's
American Legion Ocala Memorial Post 27 hosts Ruck or Treat on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park, 2601 E. Fort King St. in Ocala. The free Halloween event combi
The Chad Smith Extreme Rodeo comes to the West Entrance of [Florida Horse Park](/florida-horse-park-ocala), 11851 SW 16th Avenue in Ocala, on Saturday, October 24, 2026. The rodeo is listed on the Florida Horse Park cale
The 5k Nevermore takes place on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at the Baseline Trail Head, 4255 SE 58th Ave in Ocala. The Halloween-season race follows the paved, tree-lined Baseline Trail, starting in the last light of day
Silver Springs State Park offers a guided Pioneer Village Tour on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon, starting at the Silver River Museum, 1445 NE 58th Ave. in Ocala. The pioneer "cracker" village is a coll
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 744 business listings, 431 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.
- -744 local business listings across dining, services, shopping, and professional categories
- -431 upcoming community events including equestrian shows, festivals, and live entertainment
- -Curated guides to natural springs, horse farms, downtown dining, and Marion County neighborhoods