Horse Country Carriage Tours
Horse Country Carriage Tours stands as Ocala's premier carriage tour experience, offering enchanting horse-drawn carriage rides through the legendary horse farms and historic estates that define the Horse Capital of the World. Operating from the prestigious Kimberden Farm at 5400 NW 110th Avenue, this beloved family-owned business provides authentic guided tours that showcase the rich equestrian heritage, scenic rural landscapes, and fascinating agricultural history that have made Marion County one of America's most celebrated horse breeding and training destinations. Located in the heart of Ocala, Florida, the Horse Capital of the World.
Comprehensive hour-long narrated tours transport guests in elegant horse-drawn carriages through some of Ocala's most prestigious horse farms, where world-famous thoroughbreds have been bred, trained, and prepared for competition at the highest levels of equestrian sport. These immersive educational experiences provide visitors with fascinating insights into the breeding programs, training methodologies, and agricultural practices that have produced Kentucky Derby winners, Olympic champions, and countless other equestrian stars while maintaining the pastoral beauty and rural traditions that define Central Florida's horse country.
Expert tour guide Kimie brings passionate expertise and infectious enthusiasm to every carriage ride, sharing her deep knowledge of Ocala's equestrian community, fascinating stories about celebrity horses and their owners, detailed explanations of different horse breeds and their unique characteristics, and entertaining anecdotes about the training facilities and breeding operations that guests observe during their scenic journey. Her engaging commentary combines historical facts with contemporary insights about the multi-billion-dollar horse industry that drives Marion County's agricultural economy.
Celebrity horses Duke and Doc serve as the tour's star attractions, having achieved Hollywood fame through their featured appearance in "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides," where these magnificent draft horses galloped with the stagecoach into the castle during the film's second scene. These gentle giants provide safe, comfortable transportation while demonstrating the power, grace, and intelligence that make horses such remarkable animals and trusted partners in both entertainment and agricultural pursuits.
Kimberden Farm serves as both the departure point and final destination for carriage tours, offering guests additional opportunities to experience authentic horse farm operations through visits to the 60-acre hunter/jumper training facility that serves as home to the University of Florida Equestrian Team. Following their carriage tour, guests are invited to observe riders training in the professional arena, feed carrots to the facility's 50-plus horses, and gain deeper appreciation for the daily care, training, and management required to maintain world-class equestrian operations.
Diverse tour options accommodate varying group sizes and preferences, featuring intimate private carriage rides perfect for couples seeking romantic experiences ($30 per couple) and family-friendly group wagon tours that provide affordable entertainment for larger parties ($5 for adults, $2 for children). Both options include the same comprehensive hour-long tour with expert narration, scenic farm views, and educational content that appeals to horse enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Group services and special events expand the carriage tour experience through customized luncheon packages for parties of 10 or more, featuring either pulled pork BBQ or sandwich box lunches (including vegetarian options) served on Kimberden Farm's scenic patio overlooking the riding arena. These enhanced experiences combine culinary enjoyment with extended farm visits that provide deeper immersion into Ocala's equestrian lifestyle and agricultural traditions.
Seasonal downtown presence brings the carriage tour experience directly to historic Ocala Downtown Square during holiday seasons, where Horse Country Carriage Tours provides magical evening rides through decorated historic neighborhoods and festive downtown streets. These special seasonal offerings create memorable holiday experiences while showcasing the charming architecture and community spirit that make downtown Ocala such a beloved destination for residents and visitors.
Educational excellence ensures that every tour provides valuable learning opportunities about equestrian science, agricultural economics, animal husbandry, and regional history that enhance visitors' understanding of why Ocala earned its reputation as the Horse Capital of the World. Guests learn about breeding genetics, training techniques, competition disciplines, and the global horse industry while enjoying the peaceful rhythm of horse-drawn transportation through scenic rural landscapes.
Reservation-based operations ensure personalized attention and optimal experiences through advance booking requirements that allow tour guides to prepare specialized commentary, coordinate timing with farm activities, and accommodate specific group needs or interests. This reservation system also enables bus groups and large parties to receive customized service while maintaining the intimate, educational atmosphere that distinguishes exceptional carriage tour experiences.
Horse Country Carriage Tours represents the perfect fusion of romantic transportation, educational entertainment, agricultural tourism, and authentic rural experience, where knowledgeable guides, celebrity horses, scenic farm landscapes, and genuine passion for Ocala's equestrian heritage combine to create unforgettable carriage rides that celebrate the natural beauty, cultural traditions, and agricultural excellence that make Marion County a treasured destination for horse lovers and adventure seekers from around the world.
Near Horse Country
Northwest Ocala's premier equestrian district with horse farms and training facilities
Home & Garden
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.
Pet & Animal
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.
Home & Garden
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.
Pet & Animal
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.
Entertainment & Sports
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.
Dining
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.
Horse Capital of the World
Everything equestrian in Ocala - farms, events, heritage, and culture
Equestrian
All breed open horse show welcoming riders of all disciplines and breeds. Multiple classes offered. Contact Michele Svenningsen for details.
Equestrian
Join us for the Marion Saddle Club horse show featuring various equestrian competitions and events.
Equestrian
All breed open horse show welcoming riders of all disciplines and breeds. Multiple classes offered. Contact Michele Svenningsen for details.
Construction & Real Estate
Delbene Construction, Inc. is a specialized construction company serving Ocala, Florida and the surrounding Central Florida region with expertise in barn construction and custom home building that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern construction techniques. This professional construction contractor specializes in agricultural building construction, particularly horse barns, storage barns, and other agricultural structures that serve the needs of Central Florida's equestrian community and farming operations. The company also provides custom home construction services, offering personalized building solutions for clients seeking quality residential construction tailored to their specific lifestyle and functional requirements. Delbene Construction brings extensive experience in both commercial agricultural construction and residential building, understanding the unique requirements of each project type and the importance of durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Their construction process emphasizes close collaboration with clients to ensure projects meet specific needs while adhering to local building codes and industry best practices. The company serves property owners throughout Marion County and surrounding areas, including horse farm owners, agricultural businesses, and residential clients seeking custom construction services. Delbene Construction maintains professional licensing and insurance, providing clients with confidence in their workmanship and project management capabilities throughout the construction process.
Construction & Real Estate
International Property Services Corp operates as a specialized real estate brokerage bringing over 50 years of combined real estate experience to Marion County and surrounding areas, with particular expertise in commercial properties, acreage sales, and unique property types that require specialized knowledge and market understanding. Located at 2441 NE 3rd Street, Suite 201 in Ocala, this established real estate firm has built an exceptional reputation as "local experts with a reputation for excellence" by combining deep market knowledge with personalized service that addresses the unique challenges and opportunities present in Central Florida's diverse real estate landscape. International Property Services Corp distinguishes itself through comprehensive expertise that spans multiple property categories and transaction types, including residential properties from starter homes to luxury estates, commercial properties including retail spaces, office buildings, and investment opportunities, industrial properties that serve manufacturing and distribution needs, agricultural properties that capitalize on Marion County's strong farming and equestrian heritage, and specialized properties such as horse farms and racetrack facilities that require understanding of unique zoning, infrastructure, and market conditions. The company's extensive experience in horse farm and racetrack property transactions reflects their deep understanding of Marion County's identity as the Horse Capital of the World, where equestrian properties represent a significant segment of the luxury real estate market. Their expertise in this specialized niche includes knowledge of barn facilities, training tracks, pasture management, and other factors that significantly impact property values and marketability in the equestrian community. International Property Services Corp serves Marion County comprehensively, including Ocala, Anthony, Belleview, Dunnellon, and other local communities, while maintaining connections to major Florida metropolitan areas that provide clients with expanded market opportunities.
Shopping & Markets
Ocala Downtown Market stands as the heart of <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala's</a> vibrant agricultural community, bringing together farmers, artisans, craftspeople, and food entrepreneurs every Saturday from 9 AM to 2 PM in a beautiful open-air Market Pavilion that operates rain or shine throughout the year. Located just blocks from the historic <a href="/location/downtown-ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala Downtown Square</a> at the corner of SE 3rd Street and SE 3rd Avenue, this bustling marketplace serves as both a premier shopping destination and a vibrant community gathering space where residents and visitors connect, share stories, and celebrate local agriculture and craftsmanship. Comprehensive vendor diversity showcases the agricultural bounty and creative talent of <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a> and surrounding Central Florida regions, featuring over 80 vendors who offer an impressive array of farm-fresh produce, locally-sourced meats, artisanal breads, fresh seafood, farmhouse cheeses, handcrafted pasta, local honey, and freshly baked goods that represent the best of regional agriculture and culinary traditions. Multiple produce vendors ensure competitive pricing and diverse selection, while specialized vendors provide unique items like organic vegetables, heirloom tomatoes, seasonal fruits, and hard-to-find specialty crops that reflect Central Florida's year-round growing season. Artisan marketplace excellence extends far beyond agriculture to encompass an impressive selection of handmade crafts, custom jewelry, unique clothing, live plants, natural soaps, woodworking, pottery, and artistic creations that showcase the remarkable talent of local craftspeople and artists. These artisan vendors provide one-of-a-kind items perfect for gifts, home decoration, and personal enjoyment while supporting the creative economy that makes Ocala such a culturally rich community. Modern facility amenities ensure visitor comfort and convenience through permanent roof coverage, large overhead ceiling fans that provide natural cooling, handicapped-accessible restrooms, convenient water fountains, nearby ATM access, and ample parking that makes the market easily accessible for families, seniors, and visitors with varying mobility needs. The thoughtfully designed Market Pavilion provides protection from Florida's unpredictable weather while maintaining the open-air atmosphere that makes farmers market shopping such an enjoyable experience. Culinary destination appeal features diverse food trucks and semi-permanent food vendors that converge throughout the week and especially on Saturdays to showcase innovative menu items, ethnic cuisines, comfort foods, and specialty beverages that transform the market into a dynamic outdoor dining experience. A permanent coffee stand at the corner provides premium beverages, while rotating food trucks ensure variety and excitement for regular visitors seeking new culinary adventures. Family-friendly environment enhances the market experience through proximity to a children's playground and the Citizens Circle Splash Pad, creating an ideal weekend destination where parents can shop for fresh groceries and artisan goods while children enjoy recreational activities in a safe, supervised environment. This family-centered approach makes the Ocala Downtown Market a perfect Saturday morning tradition for households throughout Marion County. Community economic impact extends beyond individual transactions to support local agriculture, sustainable food systems, and the regional economy through direct farmer-to-consumer sales that eliminate middleman costs while ensuring maximum freshness and quality. Every dollar spent at the market contributes to local economic development, supports independent farmers and artisans, and strengthens the community bonds that make Ocala such a special place to live and visit. Historic growth and development since the market's relocation to its current location in 2016 demonstrates the increasing popularity and success of this community institution, with vendor participation expanding beyond the original pavilion to include spots along the O-Trak, Ocala's innovative multi-modal pedestrian and bike path that connects downtown destinations. This growth reflects both the market's quality and the community's commitment to supporting local agriculture and small business development. Ocala Downtown Market represents the perfect fusion of agricultural excellence, artisan creativity, community spirit, and family-friendly entertainment, where fresh local produce, handcrafted goods, culinary innovation, and neighborhood connections combine to create an authentic farmers market experience that celebrates the best of Central Florida's agricultural heritage while building lasting relationships within the Horse Capital of the World's vibrant downtown community.
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