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 Reilly Arts Center screens the 1942 classic Casablanca as part of its summer classic film series at the [Marion Theatre](/reilly-arts-center-ocala), 50 S Magnolia Ave in downtown Ocala. The Academy Award-winning drama stars Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman as former lovers who reunite in wartime Morocco. The Reilly Arts Center presents the screening at the Marion Theatre, with the first showing Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 8:00 p.m. and additional showings continuing through August 29. Tickets are available through the Reilly Arts Center box office and website.
The Reilly Arts Center screens the 1989 classic Steel Magnolias as part of its summer classic film series at the [Marion Theatre](/reilly-arts-center-ocala), 50 S Magnolia Ave in downtown Ocala. The PG-rated drama stars Sally Field, Julia Roberts, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine, Olympia Dukakis and Daryl Hannah in the story of a tight-knit circle of Louisiana women. The film runs 118 minutes, and tickets are $5. Screenings begin Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 5:30 p.m., with additional showings on July 31 (5:30 p.m.) and August 1 (8:00 p.m.), and further dates continuing through August 29.
The Reilly Arts Center screens the 1993 Western Tombstone as part of its summer classic film series at the [Marion Theatre](/reilly-arts-center-ocala), 50 S Magnolia Ave in downtown Ocala. The R-rated film stars Kurt Russell as Wyatt Earp and Val Kilmer as Doc Holliday in the story of a lawman drawn back into the fight against a band of outlaws in 1880s Arizona. The Reilly Arts Center presents the screening at the Marion Theatre, with the first showing Friday, July 31, 2026 at 8:00 p.m. and additional showings continuing through August 30. Tickets are $5, available through the Reilly Arts Center box office and website.
The Reilly Arts Center screens the animated favorite The Iron Giant at the [Marion Theatre](/reilly-arts-center-ocala), 50 S Magnolia Ave in downtown Ocala. The family film follows a young boy who befriends a giant robot from outer space in 1950s Maine. The Reilly Arts Center presents the screening at the Marion Theatre, with the first showing Saturday, August 1, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. and additional showings continuing through August 30. Tickets are available through the Reilly Arts Center box office and website.
Marion Cultural Alliance presents Art of Aging: Living in Color at the [Brick City Center for the Arts](/businesses/brick-city-center-for-the-arts), 23 SW Broadway Street in downtown Ocala. The exhibition features work by Marion County artists age 55 and older, presented in partnership with Marion Senior Services and sponsored by the Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute. The show runs August 7 through August 29, 2026, opening with a public reception on Friday, August 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday Lunch & Learn programs accompany the exhibit throughout August. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
One of country music's biggest touring festivals returns to Ocala for a two-day celebration at Florida Horse Park. Day 1 (Aug 28) headliner: Brooks & Dunn. Day 2 (Aug 29) headliner: Blake Shelton. Additional acts include Lauren Alaina, Shenandoah, and more. Part of Rock the Country's 8-city national tour celebrating America's 250th anniversary. Tickets available at frontgatetickets.com.
The Reilly Arts Center presents a free screening of Propeller, a film by John Travolta, at the historic Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave in downtown Ocala. The screening takes place Friday, August 28, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free, making it one of the more accessible film nights on the Marion County calendar. The Marion Theatre sits in the heart of downtown Ocala within walking distance of the square's restaurants and bars. Seating details and any advance reservation requirements are posted through the Reilly Arts Center box office and website.
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. Rainbow Springs offers refreshing 72°F swimming water year-round, while Silver Springs keeps cool with glass-bottom boat tours and kayaking.
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.
Browse verified daycare and preschool options in the Ocala area.
Explore youth sports leagues, classes, and athletic opportunities for kids.
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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