Things to Do with Kids in Ocala
From world-class horse shows to crystal-clear springs, Ocala is full of family-friendly adventures. Discover upcoming events, parks, museums, and activities perfect for kids of all ages.
Outdoor fun for the whole family.
Upcoming Family-Friendly Events
Kid-approved events happening soon in Ocala
The World Equestrian Center's premier 12-week winter series featuring hunter/jumper and dressage competitions. This world-class facility offers climate-controlled indoor arenas, free admission for spectators, restaurants, shopping, and golf cart rentals. Experience top-level equestrian sport in the Horse Capital of the World.
The 35th Annual Live Oak International Combined Driving and Show Jumping Tournament returns to Live Oak Stud, a 5,000-acre thoroughbred breeding farm just 12 miles west of Historic Downtown Ocala. America's largest combined driving and show jumping event — and the only tournament in the United States to offer international combined driving and show jumping at the same competition — draws more than 25,000 spectators over four days to watch top athletes from Europe and North America compete. Attendees can sit under covered bleachers or on lawn chairs and blankets, explore a flourishing vendor area, and enjoy hospitality opportunities. Guest shuttles run throughout the day. The event also features a Tailgating Competition with prizes.
Ocala Civic Theatre presents Steel Magnolias, the beloved comedy-drama set in 1980s Louisiana. Truvy's beauty salon is a second home on Saturdays to half a dozen women who share their joys and sorrows. As Truvy says, "Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion." Multiple performance dates available including evening shows and matinees.
On-site supervised childcare during the Saturday matinee of Steel Magnolias at Ocala Civic Theatre. Children ages 5-12 participate in a theatre workshop with acting exercises, music, creative movement, and art inspired by the play, led by trained teaching artists from The Academy at Ocala Civic Theatre. Limited to 20 children. Online registration required.
A full day celebrating equine enthusiasts at Florida Horse Park. The morning begins with a 5K run at 8am, followed by an educational presentation at noon from Dr. Chelsa Folmar, Internal Medicine specialist at Equine Medical Center of Ocala. Vendors compete for best tailgate with proceeds supporting the Foundation for the Horse. The event includes polo competition at 1pm, halftime divot stomp, and season-end awards ceremony. A perfect celebration of the Horse Capital of the World.
The inaugural Marion County Veterans' Hall of Fame ceremony honoring local service members with speeches and recognition. Part of the Marion Celebrates America 250 "Liberty Lives Here" initiative, this event launches a permanent veterans' oral-history archive preserving the stories of Marion County's military veterans for future generations.
Family-Friendly Activities in Ocala
Curated activities and attractions that kids and parents both love, from outdoor adventures to arts and culture.
Parks & Nature
Outdoor fun for the whole family
44-acre botanical garden with 2+ miles of paved, stroller-friendly trails. Free admission makes it perfect for a peaceful family walk with over 100 plant species to discover.
Crystal-clear 72°F swimming area ideal for kids. Shallow areas, picnic pavilions, and nature trails. The tubing run is perfect for older kids and teens.
Arts & Culture
Creative experiences for curious minds
Hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits covering biology, ecology, engineering, and technology. Perfect for curious kids who love to touch, build, and explore.
Family-friendly theater productions throughout the year. Special PlayDate matinees offer on-site childcare for younger siblings while parents enjoy the show.
Equestrian Experiences
Horse Capital fun for kids
Family-friendly polo matches with picnic-style seating. Kids enjoy the outdoor atmosphere and the traditional halftime divot stomp. Bring chairs or a blanket.
Self-guided tour of colorfully painted life-size horse statues throughout Ocala. Free and fun for kids who love a scavenger hunt — see how many horses you can find!
Seasonal Traditions
Annual events families love
Tips for Families Visiting Ocala
Practical advice to make the most of your family adventures in Marion County.
Beat the Heat
Florida summers can be hot. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. Springs like Rainbow Springs and Silver Springs offer refreshing 72°F water year-round.
Pack for Adventure
Bring sunscreen, bug spray, water bottles, and comfortable shoes for outdoor activities. Many parks and trails don't have extensive shade, so hats and sun protection are essential.
Check Event Dates
Many family-friendly events happen on weekends. Check our events calendar for the latest schedule. Free First Saturdays at the Appleton Museum are a monthly highlight.
Stroller-Friendly Spots
Sholom Park, Santos Greenway trails, and the World Equestrian Center are all stroller-friendly. Downtown Ocala's sidewalks are also well-maintained for easy strolling.
Water Activities
Rainbow Springs has a designated swimming area perfect for younger kids. Silver Springs offers glass-bottom boat tours that are great for all ages. Always supervise children near water.
Save on Admission
Many Ocala attractions are free or low-cost. The World Equestrian Center, Sholom Park, Santos Trails, and Painted Horse Trail are all free. The Appleton Museum is free on first Saturdays.
Family-Friendly Businesses
Local spots that welcome families with kids
Explore Our Ocala Guides
Discover more specialized guides to help you plan your perfect family experience in Ocala
Find restaurants and deals where kids eat free in Ocala and Marion County.
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Find summer camps, day camps, and seasonal programs for kids of all ages.
Resources, co-ops, field trips, and support for homeschooling families.
Learn about private schools and educational options in Marion County.
Discover campgrounds, RV parks, and outdoor camping options near Ocala.
Find tutoring, academic support, and educational services for students.
Plan the perfect birthday celebration at venues throughout Ocala.
Enjoy family-friendly activities without breaking the bank in Ocala.
Join playgroups, parent meet-ups, and kids' workshops throughout Marion County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about family activities in Ocala
Top family activities in Ocala include glass-bottom boat tours at Silver Springs State Park, free visits to the Appleton Museum of Art on Free First Saturdays, watching horse shows at the World Equestrian Center (free admission), exploring the Discovery Center science museum, biking the Santos trails, swimming at Rainbow Springs, and attending seasonal festivals like the Strawberry Festival and Light Up Ocala.
Yes! Many family activities in Ocala are free. The World Equestrian Center offers free spectator admission, the Appleton Museum has Free First Saturdays, Sholom Park is always free, the Santos Trails are free to use, and the Painted Horse Trail is a free self-guided tour. Many community events and festivals also offer free admission.
Ocala is perfect for outdoor family fun. Kids can swim at Rainbow Springs (72°F year-round), take glass-bottom boat tours at Silver Springs, bike the paved Santos trails, explore Sholom Park's botanical gardens, and visit numerous county parks with playgrounds. The mild Florida climate means outdoor activities are available year-round.
Ocala has many family-friendly dining options. Downtown Ocala offers casual restaurants with kids' menus, and the World Equestrian Center has multiple dining options suitable for families. Many local restaurants along Silver Springs Boulevard and SW 17th Street cater to families with children.
On rainy days, families can visit the Discovery Center science museum, explore the Appleton Museum of Art, catch a show at the Ocala Civic Theatre, browse the shops at the World Equestrian Center, or enjoy indoor entertainment venues around town.
The World Equestrian Center is excellent for families. Admission is free for spectators, and kids can watch world-class horse shows, explore the shops, enjoy dining options, and rent golf carts to tour the massive campus. The climate-controlled indoor arenas make it comfortable in any weather.
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