Theme Parks & Attractions Near Ocala
Disney, Universal, Busch Gardens, and LEGOLAND are all within 80-100 miles of Ocala — plus amazing local attractions right in your backyard.
Major Theme Parks from Ocala
All within a 1.5-hour drive — perfect for day trips.
Walt Disney World
Tip: Go on weekdays and use Lightning Lane for shorter waits. Park hopper adds flexibility.
Universal Orlando Resort
Tip: Epic Universe (opened 2025) is the newest park. Express Pass saves hours of waiting.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Tip: Some of the best roller coasters in Florida, plus a world-class zoo. Less crowded than Orlando parks.
LEGOLAND Florida
Tip: Ideal for younger children. Includes water park option. Peppa Pig Theme Park is adjacent.
SeaWorld Orlando
Tip: Often less crowded than Disney/Universal. Great coasters and educational shows.
Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari
Tip: Drive your own car through a 170-acre safari with 100+ animal species. More affordable alternative.
Local Attractions in Ocala
No long drive needed — amazing experiences right here.
World Equestrian Center
World-class equestrian facility with free competitions, dining, and shopping.
Silver Springs State Park
Glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking, and nature trails at Florida's original attraction.
Appleton Museum of Art
European and American art collection. Free first Saturdays monthly.
Easy Street Family Fun
Go-karts, laser tag, arcade, mini golf — indoor and outdoor family entertainment.
Rainbow Springs State Park
Tubing, swimming, and gardens at one of Florida's largest springs.
Ocala National Forest
387,000 acres of wilderness with springs, trails, camping, and fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What theme parks are near Ocala Florida?
The closest major theme parks to Ocala are Walt Disney World (80 miles, 1 hr 20 min), Universal Orlando Resort (78 miles, 1 hr 15 min), LEGOLAND Florida (80 miles, 1 hr 15 min), SeaWorld Orlando (82 miles, 1 hr 20 min), and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (100 miles, 1 hr 30 min). All are easily accessible for day trips from Ocala.
How far is Disney World from Ocala FL?
Walt Disney World is approximately 80 miles south of Ocala, which is about a 1 hour and 20 minute drive via the Florida Turnpike or I-75 South to the Florida Turnpike. This makes Disney an easy day trip from Ocala.
How far is Universal Studios from Ocala?
Universal Orlando Resort is approximately 78 miles south of Ocala, about 1 hour and 15 minutes by car via I-75 South. The new Epic Universe park, which opened in 2025, is also in the Orlando area and accessible from Ocala as a day trip.
What family attractions are in Ocala itself?
Ocala has many family attractions that do not require a long drive. The World Equestrian Center is free to visit, Silver Springs State Park offers glass-bottom boat tours for just $2 entry, Easy Street Family Fun has go-karts and laser tag, and the Ocala National Forest has springs swimming for $6 per vehicle.
Is Ocala a good base for visiting Florida theme parks?
Yes, Ocala is a smart base for visiting Florida theme parks. Hotels in Ocala are significantly cheaper than in Orlando or Tampa, and all major theme parks are within 80-100 miles (1-1.5 hour drive). After a day at the parks, you can return to Ocala's quieter atmosphere and enjoy springs, horse country, and great local dining.