Ocala, Florida, may not be the first name that comes to mind when planning a trip to the Sunshine State. But perhaps it should. This central Florida city, with a population of nearly 68,000 residents, is a gateway to diverse and unforgettable adventures.
From its stunning natural landscapes to its unexpected cultural landmarks, Ocala promises a journey that goes beyond a typical vacation.
If you are planning your first visit, this guide will walk you through four unique and essential stops you shouldn’t miss.
Ocala is also home to the Ocala National Forest. It’s a vast natural reserve in central Florida and among the oldest east of the Mississippi. According to Ocala-News, National Geographic ranked it one of the 25 best places to travel worldwide for 2025. The forest features hundreds of miles of trails, campsites, lakes, and freshwater springs. Visitors can kayak along the Silver River, where two of the park’s most talked-about residents often appear: manatees and monkeys.
Manatees glide through the clear waters, especially in cooler months when they assemble in large groups. The real surprise, however, is spotting the wild Rhesus Macaque monkeys introduced in the 1930s, with about 400 now roaming the riverbanks. Their playful presence offers guests an unforgettable and unexpected glimpse of the wild. To make the most of the park’s camping and water activities, many travellers bring RVs.
Traveller’s Guide to Ocala, Florida
If you are planning your first visit, this guide will walk you through four unique and essential stops you shouldn’t miss.
#1. The Ocala National Forest
Ocala is also home to the Ocala National Forest. It’s a vast natural reserve in central Florida and among the oldest east of the Mississippi. According to Ocala-News, National Geographic ranked it one of the 25 best places to travel worldwide for 2025. The forest features hundreds of miles of trails, campsites, lakes, and freshwater springs. Visitors can kayak along the Silver River, where two of the park’s most talked-about residents often appear: manatees and monkeys.
Manatees glide through the clear waters, especially in cooler months when they assemble in large groups. The real surprise, however, is spotting the wild Rhesus Macaque monkeys introduced in the 1930s, with about 400 now roaming the riverbanks. Their playful presence offers guests an unforgettable and unexpected glimpse of the wild. To make the most of the park’s camping and water activities, many travellers bring RVs.
With so much to explore, many visitors prefer to store larger gear nearby for convenience. Many visitors rely on RV & boat storage in Ocala to keep their equipment secure. This makes it easier to enjoy the forest without carrying more than you need. Beacon RV & Boat Storage states that these facilities feature advanced security, including round-the-clock surveillance, 8-inch walls, digital entry access, and multiple free amenities. For first-time visitors, the Ocala National Forest offers adventure and history, making it a must-see.
Another must-see is Juniper Springs Recreation Area, one of the oldest sites created by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. It sits just 30 minutes from Ocala along State Road 40. The area features hundreds of tiny bubbling springs and a few large ones gushing from the earth beneath tall palms and oaks. It is a lush oasis within the scrub forest. Juniper Springs offers a mix of relaxation and activity. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear spring pool, snorkel in shallow waters, or paddle through the winding Juniper Run by kayak.
The run is one of Florida’s most scenic waterways, providing a close look at the area’s wildlife. The site offers well-marked trails for hiking and a visitor centre with educational exhibits. You can stay shaded at the camp-ground with tent and RV sites. Booths offer showers, picnic tables, grills, and restrooms. Kayak rentals are available on site. The park also features an amphitheatre and a historic mill house where visitors learn about its CCC origins. For a traveller exploring Ocala for the first time, Juniper Springs blends Florida history with natural beauty.
No trip to Ocala is complete without stepping into the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, a shrine to both innovation and grit. Known as “Big Daddy,” Don Garlits wasn’t just a record-setter; he was a pioneer who changed the sport forever. Visitors will find themselves surrounded by nearly a century of drag racing history. You’ll find everything from early engines and race cars to the stories of the men and women who risked it all on the track.
Garlits himself was the first to push past 180, 200, 250, and 270 miles per hour, reaching a breathtaking 323 mph at his peak. However, his greatest contribution was born from tragedy. Following a devastating accident, he reimagined the dragster with a rear-mounted engine, a design that remains the industry standard to date. Though unassuming from the outside, the museum surprises visitors with its vast collection of cars, memorabilia, and personal artifacts. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing isn’t just a museum. It’s a chance to feel the pulse of American racing history.
Ocala is a city full of surprises. For first-time travellers, it offers an experience you cannot find in Florida’s bigger tourist hubs. The Ocala National Forest and Juniper Springs highlight the region’s natural beauty. And the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing connects visitors to a unique chapter of American history.
#2. Juniper Springs Recreation Area
Another must-see is Juniper Springs Recreation Area, one of the oldest sites created by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. It sits just 30 minutes from Ocala along State Road 40. The area features hundreds of tiny bubbling springs and a few large ones gushing from the earth beneath tall palms and oaks. It is a lush oasis within the scrub forest. Juniper Springs offers a mix of relaxation and activity. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear spring pool, snorkel in shallow waters, or paddle through the winding Juniper Run by kayak.
The run is one of Florida’s most scenic waterways, providing a close look at the area’s wildlife. The site offers well-marked trails for hiking and a visitor centre with educational exhibits. You can stay shaded at the camp-ground with tent and RV sites. Booths offer showers, picnic tables, grills, and restrooms. Kayak rentals are available on site. The park also features an amphitheatre and a historic mill house where visitors learn about its CCC origins. For a traveller exploring Ocala for the first time, Juniper Springs blends Florida history with natural beauty.
#3. Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing
No trip to Ocala is complete without stepping into the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, a shrine to both innovation and grit. Known as “Big Daddy,” Don Garlits wasn’t just a record-setter; he was a pioneer who changed the sport forever. Visitors will find themselves surrounded by nearly a century of drag racing history. You’ll find everything from early engines and race cars to the stories of the men and women who risked it all on the track.
Garlits himself was the first to push past 180, 200, 250, and 270 miles per hour, reaching a breathtaking 323 mph at his peak. However, his greatest contribution was born from tragedy. Following a devastating accident, he reimagined the dragster with a rear-mounted engine, a design that remains the industry standard to date. Though unassuming from the outside, the museum surprises visitors with its vast collection of cars, memorabilia, and personal artifacts. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing isn’t just a museum. It’s a chance to feel the pulse of American racing history.
Final Thoughts
Ocala is a city full of surprises. For first-time travellers, it offers an experience you cannot find in Florida’s bigger tourist hubs. The Ocala National Forest and Juniper Springs highlight the region’s natural beauty. And the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing connects visitors to a unique chapter of American history.
If you are planning your first trip to Ocala, these stops provide the perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure. The city’s blend of attractions makes it a destination worth exploring!
The best time to visit Ocala is between October and April. Cooler temperatures make outdoor adventures more comfortable, and spring brings colourful blooms. This period also features festivals, and clear spring waters, creating an ideal mix of weather, activities, and local culture.
Ocala has many family-friendly activities. Families can go on glass-bottom boat tours at Silver Springs State Park. Families can also visit the Discovery Center or take on the thrills at the Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park.
Manatees are most visible in Ocala’s springs and rivers during the cooler months, typically November through March. Warmer water temperatures draw them into crystal-clear springs. While sightings can happen year-round, the winter months provide the best chance to see large groups gathered together.
(Image source is Unsplash: 1 and 2)
People Also Ask
1. What is the best time of year to visit Ocala, Florida?
The best time to visit Ocala is between October and April. Cooler temperatures make outdoor adventures more comfortable, and spring brings colourful blooms. This period also features festivals, and clear spring waters, creating an ideal mix of weather, activities, and local culture.
2. Are there many things to do with kids in Ocala?
Ocala has many family-friendly activities. Families can go on glass-bottom boat tours at Silver Springs State Park. Families can also visit the Discovery Center or take on the thrills at the Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park.
3. Can you see manatees in Ocala year-round?
Manatees are most visible in Ocala’s springs and rivers during the cooler months, typically November through March. Warmer water temperatures draw them into crystal-clear springs. While sightings can happen year-round, the winter months provide the best chance to see large groups gathered together.
(Image source is Unsplash: 1 and 2)
