Horse Country Carriage Tours

Elite dressage competition featuring top riders from around the world competing at the World Equestrian Center. Spectators welcome to witness world-class horsemanship.

Mark your calendars for the ultimate home improvement and lifestyle event in Ocala! The Ocala Home Show brings together top vendors, experts, and professionals to help you create your dream home.

Play • Shop • Learn • Adopt! The most epic animal adventure of the year! Features dock diving, costume contests, lure course, and more. Over 100 pet-related vendors, adoption rescue organizations, and activities for pets of every shape and size. Leashed, friendly, vaccinated pets welcome. Indoor event at World Equestrian Center.

Ocala Florida's LARGEST convention returns! Uses the entire 135k sqft of the Expo Center. Come enjoy an awesome weekend full of Comic books, Video Games, Cosplay, Props, and More! Kids 10 and under are FREE! Saturday: 10am-6pm, Sunday: 10am-5pm.

World Equestrian Center stands as the largest and most prestigious equestrian complex in the United States, transforming 4,000 verdant acres of <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala's</a> legendary horse country into a world-class destination that combines championship equestrian competition with luxury hospitality, fine dining, premium shopping, and comprehensive event facilities. Named one of TIME's 2024 World's Greatest Places and recognized as the world's premier destination for excellence in competition and hospitality, this remarkable facility represents the pinnacle of equestrian lifestyle and entertainment since opening its gates to the public in January 2021. Unparalleled arena facilities showcase the ultimate in equestrian infrastructure, featuring four state-of-the-art indoor arenas, a specialized Western arena, two magnificent grand stadiums, and sixteen outdoor arenas that accommodate every equestrian discipline from hunter and jumper competitions through polo, dressage, and breed shows. The crown jewel WEC Stadium provides 7,000 seats with brilliant lighting systems that illuminate Saturday night Grand Prix shows, while two massive video walls project crystal-clear live coverage that ensures every spectator enjoys optimal viewing of championship-level competition. Luxury accommodation excellence centers around <a href="/businesses/the-equestrian-hotel" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">The Equestrian Hotel</a>, <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County's</a> only AAA Four Diamond Resort, featuring 248 stylishly appointed rooms and suites with stunning views overlooking the 128,000-square-foot Grand Outdoor Arena. This architectural masterpiece showcases 20-foot ceilings, crystal chandeliers, floor-to-ceiling fireplaces, mahogany finishes, and Italian porcelain throughout, while providing guests with access to luxury shopping, unique dining, a state-of-the-art fitness center, the magnificent 7,000-square-foot Calluna Spa and salon, and a spectacular zero-entry swimming pool. Culinary destination diversity encompasses seven distinctive restaurants throughout the property that offer versatility in dining options and price points for every taste and occasion. <a href="/businesses/stirrups-world-equestrian-center" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Stirrups</a>, the flagship restaurant, has quickly become one of Ocala's premier dining establishments and earned Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence in 2023 for its exceptional wine selection. Additional dining venues include Filo's Mexican Cantina, Miss Tilly's Lollipops, Ralph's Burger & Sandwich Shop, Viola & Dot's Italian Kitchen & Pizzeria, Emma's Patisserie, Yellow Pony Pub & Garden, and Horse to Water Pool & Bar, ensuring comprehensive culinary experiences for every palate. Comprehensive event capabilities extend far beyond equestrian competition to encompass two exposition centers totaling over 250,000 square feet of flexible indoor space that accommodates major conventions, trade shows, soccer tournaments, basketball competitions, volleyball championships, cheerleading events, dance competitions, martial arts tournaments, cross-country meets, lacrosse games, canine shows, and social gatherings that attract visitors from around the world. Premium shopping and lifestyle amenities feature more than two dozen boutiques and specialty shops including Lugano Diamonds, Ariat International, Mr. Pickles & Sailor Bear Toy Shoppe, The Debonair Collection, <a href="/businesses/john-craig-clothier" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">John Craig Clothier</a>, Chi Rho Ranch, and numerous other retailers that provide unbridled access to the opulent equestrian lifestyle and luxury goods that complement the sophisticated WEC experience. Supporting infrastructure excellence includes spacious modern stabling facilities, an on-site veterinary hospital, UF Health medical facility, a beautiful chapel for special events and weddings, a comprehensive general store, golf cart rental services, live event streaming capabilities, and professional event management that ensures flawless execution of competitions and gatherings ranging from intimate celebrations through international championships. Future development expansion includes The Equestrian Manor and associated restaurants scheduled to open in fall 2025, followed by WEC's Shoppes Off 80th outdoor shopping venue in 2026, demonstrating the facility's commitment to continuous enhancement and growth within Central Florida's thriving equestrian community. World Equestrian Center represents the perfect fusion of championship-level equestrian excellence, luxury hospitality, culinary sophistication, and comprehensive entertainment, where world-class competition facilities, AAA Four Diamond accommodations, award-winning dining, premium shopping, and unparalleled event capabilities combine to create an extraordinary destination that celebrates the finest traditions of equestrian sport while providing exceptional experiences for visitors, competitors, and guests in the heart of the Horse Capital of the World.

Marcelina's Italian Restaurant stands as <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala's</a> premier fine dining Italian destination, masterfully combining authentic Italian culinary traditions with exceptional service and romantic atmosphere that has earned recognition as a 5-star dining establishment where families and couples alike experience the very best of traditional Italian flavors in an elegant, cozy setting. Located at 8810 SW State Road 200, this distinguished restaurant represents the perfect fusion of old-world Italian hospitality and contemporary dining excellence, consistently ranking among <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County's</a> top restaurants while maintaining the intimate atmosphere and attention to detail that transforms ordinary dining into extraordinary culinary experiences. Authentic Italian culinary excellence showcases time-honored recipes and traditional cooking techniques that honor the rich heritage of Italian cuisine through meticulously prepared dishes including their legendary Veal Parmesan, expertly crafted with tender veal and layered with eggplant that creates a standout signature dish praised by customers as exceptional. The kitchen's commitment to authenticity extends through every aspect of preparation, from handmade pasta created fresh daily to traditional sauces that demonstrate generations of Italian culinary expertise. Homemade pasta mastery represents the cornerstone of Marcelina's culinary philosophy, featuring fresh pasta made daily using traditional techniques and premium ingredients that create the perfect foundation for classic Italian dishes. This dedication to handcrafted preparation ensures that every bite delivers the authentic texture and flavor that defines exceptional Italian dining while supporting the restaurant's commitment to quality and tradition. Signature dish excellence includes the highly acclaimed Veal Parmesan with eggplant layers that customers consistently praise as a standout creation, plus expertly prepared Chicken Scarpariello, perfectly fried calamari, and the recommended veal and chicken francaise entrees that demonstrate the kitchen's mastery of both traditional and contemporary Italian cooking techniques. Each signature dish reflects careful attention to ingredient quality, preparation methods, and presentation that elevates familiar Italian favorites into memorable dining experiences. Romantic atmosphere design creates the perfect setting for intimate dinners and special celebrations through thoughtful interior design, warm lighting, and elegant table settings that enhance the dining experience while honoring the sophisticated ambiance that defines fine Italian dining. This romantic environment makes Marcelina's the ideal choice for date nights, anniversaries, milestone celebrations, and other special occasions that deserve exceptional cuisine and memorable atmosphere. Exceptional service standards ensure that every guest receives attentive, professional hospitality that reflects the Italian tradition of genuine warmth and hospitality, with staff dedicated to creating personalized dining experiences that exceed expectations. The restaurant's commitment to top-notch service includes attention to little details like fresh hand-grated cheese over salads and warm crusty bread served with olive oil loaded with fresh garlic that demonstrate genuine care for guest satisfaction. Fresh local ingredients philosophy drives the kitchen's commitment to using the highest quality local produce and premium imported Italian ingredients that ensure authentic flavors while supporting regional agriculture and maintaining the freshness that defines exceptional Italian cuisine. This dedication to ingredient quality guarantees that every dish meets the high standards expected from fine dining while honoring traditional Italian cooking principles. Family-friendly excellence ensures that Marcelina's serves as both a romantic destination for couples and a welcoming gathering place for families seeking exceptional Italian dining in an atmosphere that accommodates all ages while maintaining the sophisticated ambiance that adults appreciate. This versatile approach makes the restaurant perfect for family celebrations, multi-generational gatherings, and special occasions that bring loved ones together over exceptional food. Generous portion philosophy reflects traditional Italian hospitality through substantial servings that provide exceptional value while ensuring that guests leave satisfied and eager to return for future dining experiences. This commitment to generosity extends beyond portion sizes to encompass the overall dining experience, creating lasting impressions that build customer loyalty and community reputation. Convenient operating schedule serves the community Tuesday through Sunday with afternoon and evening service from 2 PM to 9 PM Tuesday through Saturday, and Sunday hours from 2 PM to 8 PM, while remaining closed on Mondays. This schedule provides ample opportunity for both leisurely afternoon dining and elegant evening celebrations while ensuring that the kitchen maintains the high standards that define exceptional fine dining. Community recognition includes a 4.3 out of 5 rating on TripAdvisor and ranking as #52 among over 400 restaurants in Ocala, demonstrating consistent customer satisfaction and the restaurant's success in delivering exceptional Italian cuisine that meets the high expectations of discerning diners. This recognition reflects the restaurant's dedication to culinary excellence and customer service that builds lasting relationships within the community. Classic Italian wine and beverage selection complements the authentic cuisine through carefully curated Italian wines and traditional beverages that enhance the dining experience while providing perfect pairings for signature dishes and special occasion meals. The beverage program demonstrates the same commitment to authenticity and quality that defines every aspect of the Marcelina's dining experience. Marcelina's Italian Restaurant represents the perfect fusion of authentic Italian culinary tradition, romantic fine dining atmosphere, and exceptional hospitality, where handmade pasta, signature veal parmesan, traditional recipes, fresh local ingredients, and genuine commitment to guest satisfaction combine to create Marion County's most distinguished Italian dining destination that honors the timeless traditions of Italian cuisine while providing contemporary comfort and elegance in the heart of Ocala's dining landscape.