Best Bars & Happy Hour in Ocala

Cocktail lounges, craft beer, speakeasies, and happy hour deals in Ocala and Marion County

Craft Cocktails
Live Music

Ocala's Bar & Nightlife Scene

Ocala's bar scene ranges from a hidden 1920s speakeasy to rooftop cocktail lounges, craft breweries, wine bars, and lively downtown spots with live music. Happy hours typically run 3-6 PM on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers. Downtown Ocala's square has the most walkable concentration of bars and restaurants. Check our full nightlife guide and happy hour deals for more.

Top Bars in Ocala

SpeakeasyIntimate & Mysterious

The Thirsty Cobbler

Hidden 1920s-style speakeasy behind Ivy on the Square. Password required. Craft cocktails and Prohibition-era libations.

Rooftop LoungeUpscale & Modern

Sky Ultra Lounge

Rooftop cocktails with panoramic views. Modern atmosphere perfect for date nights and special occasions.

Burger Bar & NightlifeEnergetic & Social

Graffiti Junktion

Street-art-themed bar with craft burgers, cocktails, craft beer, live music, and trivia nights downtown.

Winery & Wine BarRelaxed & Rustic

Katya Vineyards

Local winery with tastings, farm-to-table dining, and live music events in a pastoral setting.

Cocktail Bar & RestaurantCraft & Contemporary

Salted Brick

Modern American restaurant with an impressive craft cocktail program and curated wine list.

Craft BreweryCasual & Community

Infinite Ale Works

Local craft brewery with rotating taps, a taproom, and community events in a relaxed setting.

Happy Hour Tips

Best time: Most happy hours run 3-6 PM weekdays. Some extend to 7 PM on Thursdays and Fridays.

Downtown crawl: The Ocala downtown square lets you walk between multiple bars and restaurants. Start at Harry's, hit Graffiti Junktion, and end at The Thirsty Cobbler speakeasy.

First Friday: The monthly First Friday Art Walk downtown includes drink specials at participating bars and restaurants from 6-9 PM.

Weekend scenes: Friday and Saturday nights are busiest downtown. Thursday is popular for after-work drinks. Sunday afternoons at Katya Vineyards offer a relaxed wine experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best bars in Ocala, Florida?

Top-rated bars in Ocala include The Thirsty Cobbler (hidden speakeasy behind Ivy on the Square), Sky Ultra Lounge (rooftop cocktails), Graffiti Junktion (craft burgers and cocktails downtown), Katya Vineyards (wine tasting and live music), Salted Brick (craft cocktails), and Infinite Ale Works (craft brewery). Downtown Ocala has the highest concentration of bars and nightlife within walking distance.

Where are the best happy hours in Ocala?

Happy hour deals in Ocala can be found at many restaurants and bars, typically from 3-6 PM on weekdays. Popular happy hour spots include Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille downtown, Salted Brick, Sky Ultra Lounge, and various restaurants along the downtown square and SW College Road corridor. Many offer discounted drinks, half-price appetizers, or special pricing on craft beer and wine.

Is there a speakeasy in Ocala?

Yes, The Thirsty Cobbler is a hidden speakeasy located behind Ivy on the Square restaurant in downtown Ocala. Access requires a password posted on Ivy on the Square's Facebook page. The speakeasy opens at 8:30 PM and serves craft cocktails, specialty martinis, and Prohibition-era libations in an authentic 1920s atmosphere with vintage decor and period music. It is one of Ocala's most unique nightlife experiences.

Where can I find craft beer in Ocala?

Craft beer enthusiasts in Ocala can visit Infinite Ale Works (local craft brewery with rotating taps), Graffiti Junktion (extensive craft beer selection), and various restaurants that feature Florida craft beer on tap. Several area restaurants also carry craft beer from Florida breweries. The Ocala area craft beer scene continues to grow with new options appearing regularly.

Are there rooftop bars in Ocala?

Sky Ultra Lounge is Ocala's premier rooftop bar experience, offering cocktails, small plates, and panoramic views from an elevated setting. The lounge provides a modern, upscale atmosphere that is popular for date nights, special occasions, and after-work drinks. It is one of the most unique bar experiences in Marion County.

Where is live music at bars in Ocala?

Live music at Ocala bars can be found at Graffiti Junktion downtown (weekend bands), Katya Vineyards (live music events), various downtown Ocala restaurants during First Friday Art Walk, and the Orange Blossom Opry in Weirsdale for country and Americana. Several bars along the downtown square feature acoustic performers on weekends.
Full Nightlife Guide →Best RestaurantsDate Night IdeasConcerts & Music

Bar and happy hour guide by the Only In Ocala team who enjoy Ocala nightlife regularly. Updated February 2026. Drink responsibly.