RIDING HIGH IN OCALA

If you're part of the horse world, Ocala/Marion County in Florida, is already on your map—and for good reason. But if it hasn't crossed your radar yet, it's time to take a closer look. Home to more than 1,200 horse farms, the opulent Equestrian Hotel, and the awe-inspiring World Equestrian Center, Ocala is where equine excellence meets Southern charm. Add in crystal-clear spring waters, a fast-growing culinary scene and a uniquely Floridian mix of billionaires and cowboys sharing the same arena, and you've got a destination that's as surprising as it is unforgettable. 

By Colleen Thompson

Tucked in the heart of Central Florida, Ocala is a place where history, horses, and hospitality come together in a uniquely captivating way.

Aptly known as the "Horse Capital of the World," Ocala's roots run deep—from its Native American heritage (its name is derived from the Timucua word "Ocali," believed to mean "Big Hammock") to its rise as a thoroughbred breeding haven in the 1940s. The city's equestrian legacy took off when Carl G. Rose established Florida's first thoroughbred farm here, setting in motion a rich tradition that would eventually draw breeders, riders, and trainers from around the globe. 

Stay in Style: Where Luxury Meets Horse Country

Grandeur and grace meet the raw beauty of horse country at The Equestrian Hotel, set within the prestigious World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. Here, opulence is not an afterthought, it's the very fabric of the hotel's identity. From the moment you enter the marble-clad lobby, with its soaring 20-foot ceilings and neoclassical French charm, you're enveloped in a refined atmosphere that balances stately elegance with playful equestrian touches. Swarovski chandeliers sparkle above zebra-print chairs, while a massive stone fireplace anchors the space with warmth. Italian porcelain floors gleam, and mahogany trim lines every corner, while staff in custom chic Ralph Lauren uniforms deliver service with polish and poise.

Every element in the hotel bears the meticulous imprint of owner Mary Roberts, from the bridle-patterned carpeting to the 200+ gilded dog portraits—each one a personal commission and love letter to her canine companions. On each of the five floors, elevator lobbies double as curated art galleries, showcasing the works of local artists.

Choose a suite overlooking the jaw-dropping 128,000-square-foot Grand Arena, where world-class riders compete. Imagine watching elite equestrian events from the comfort of your plush king-size bed decked out in white Italian linens. Each of the rooms are layered with rich textures and refined detail—leather saddle-stitched pillows, trophy-inspired bedside lamps, and hardware reminiscent of a horse's bridle. It's equestrian chic with a neoclassical polish—tasteful, immersive, and utterly unforgettable. It's luxury in horse country, and this is a hotel that lives and breathes it.

The Heart of Horse Country: Inside World Equestrian Center

Ralph "Larry" and Mary Roberts built World Equestrian Center (WEC) as a 380-acre showcase of equine excellence—and it more than delivers. The stunning, state-of-the-art complex is home to immaculate stables, championship arenas, and year-round competitions that attract riders and spectators from around the globe. WEC hosts everything from hunter/jumper and dressage to western events across 17 outdoor arenas and five climate-controlled indoor venues, all supported by over 2,500 permanent stalls, a world-class veterinary care center, and a full-service feed and tack store designed with elite athletes in mind. But WEC isn't just for competitors—the entire venue is designed for guests, too, with beautifully landscaped grounds that make it a luxurious and immersive spectator experience. One of its most serene and unexpected features is the Chapel on the property, a striking white sanctuary set among manicured gardens and a tranquil reflection pond. Whether you're attending a quiet service or simply soaking in the stillness, it adds a spiritual dimension to the venue's energy. To truly appreciate the full scale and beauty of the grounds, be sure to rent a golf cart—it's the best way to explore every corner of this expansive equestrian paradise.

Equestrian Eats: Where Southern Roots Meet Culinary Refinement

French Flair at Emma's Patisserie

Begin your morning the way it was meant to be—with a perfectly pulled espresso and a warm, buttery pineapple Danish from Emma's Patisserie, nestled on the first floor of The Equestrian Hotel. Each day, an irresistible deliciousness fills the glass cases, all artfully crafted by James Beard Semi-Finalist & Executive Pastry Chef Yohann Le Bescond of the World Equestrian Center. From delicate tarts to flaky croissants, every bite reflects his signature blend of precision, creativity, and French-inspired indulgence. Emma's is a daily ritual worth savoring.

Stirrups: Fine Dining at its Finest

For a very fine dining experience, head to The Equestrian Hotels' signature restaurant, Stirrups. There are no shortcuts here in the beautiful all-white & crystal space. Chef de Cuisine, Cristian Viracucha, is at the helm, and delivers elevated riffs on Southern dishes. The house baked bread served warm with cinnamon swirled butter, still has me swooning. Start with the crab cakes, served with piquillo pepper purée, citrus gel, and remoulade. And while the selection of steaks might tempt you, order the Mountain River Cervena venison with Florida mushrooms in garlic, thyme & bourbon. Desserts curated by Executive Pastry Chef Yohann Le Bescond are all sublime but opt for the Corn & Bramble, featuring blackberries, popcorn, and white chocolate.

Yellow Pony Pub: Polished with a Comfort Kick

The leatherbound cocktail menu, bespoke saddle bar stool and equine paraphernalia set the tone for this laidback gastro lounge inside the Equestrian Hotel. Ask skilled barman Hernando to mix you an Old Fashioned, he arguably makes the best I've tasted in a very long time. Order the soft hand-twisted pretzel served with beer cheese and stout mustard to stave off hunger pangs before or after dinner.

Historic Downtown: A Blend of Charm and Flavor

Strolling through historic downtown Ocala feels like stepping into a charming Southern postcard—where brick-paved streets wind past grand old oaks and lovingly preserved buildings house boutiques, galleries, and buzzing local cafés. This walkable district pairs small-town warmth with a lively creative scene and a deep sense of place rooted in horse country heritage. Start your evening with a handcrafted cocktail at Ivy on the Square, a stylish spot known for its Southern flair and vintage charm. For dinner, choose your vibe: enjoy a laid-back rooftop meal with city views at District Bar & Kitchen, or opt for a more refined, romantic evening at La Cuisine, a cozy French bistro serving classics like duck confit, escargot, and crème brûlée. Whether casual or elegant, downtown Ocala serves up flavor and charm in equal measure.

Explore the Wild Beauty of Silver Springs 

For a truly unforgettable encounter with Florida's natural beauty, kayaking the crystal-clear waters of Silver Springs is a must. Just minutes from downtown Ocala, Silver Springs State Park offers a serene, almost mystical experience as you paddle beneath a canopy of towering cypress and oak trees, gliding over spring-fed crystal-clear waters. The springs stay a refreshing 72 degrees year-round and teem with life—spot turtles sunning on logs, herons stalking the shoreline, curious otters playing in the shallows, and even the park's famously elusive wild rhesus macaques. Adding to the mystique, remnants of the original Tarzan movie sets from 30s still linger, half-hidden in the overgrown forest—an echo of Hollywood's early fascination with this wild paradise. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or just looking for a peaceful paddle, Silver Springs offers an unforgettable way to spend a few hours.

Find Mojo’s After Silver Springs

After a morning of paddling through the tranquil waters of Silver Springs, fuel up at Mojo's, a local favorite where Mexican, Cuban, and Cajun flavors collide. The atmosphere is as bold as the menu—think colorful walls, music memorabilia, and a playful mix of kitsch & quirky that somehow works. Kick things off with the Cajun fried pickles, crispy and addictive, before diving into the Vaca Frita—tender seared beef with grilled onions, served alongside red beans, rice, and sweet plantains. Wash it all down with a cold local Florida brew, and you've got the kind of lunch that turns a good day into a great one.

Up Close with Clydesdales

It's entirely possible to visit the Horse Capital of the World and never come nose-to-muzzle with one of its most iconic residents—but a short drive to Grandview Clydesdale Horse Ranch in nearby Dunnellon changes that instantly. This family-owned farm, led by Shannon and Karen Hobbs, has been perfecting the art of Clydesdale breeding for an incredible 24 generations, and they've opened their gates for a truly hands-on experience. On a guided tour, you'll wander through immaculate barns, see the training and breeding facilities in action, and meet the stars of the show—towering stallions, elegant mares, and fuzzy-legged foals. The passion behind the operation is palpable, and the chance to help name a newborn Clydesdale at the end of the tour adds a heartwarming personal touch (fingers crossed for Hudson). It's an unforgettable glimpse into the legacy, power, and grace of these gentle giants and the passionate humans behind them.

Laidback Bites & River Vibes After your horse tour, mosey on over to Swampy’s in nearby Dunnellon — it’s the kind of laid-back, riverfront hideaway that feels like it was made for flip-flops and second helpings. Grab a table on the open-air deck perched right above the crystal-clear Rainbow River, where kayakers, paddlers, and the occasional swamp boat glide by like it’s all part of a lazy afternoon parade. If the river’s feeling generous, you might even spot a playful family of otters putting on a lunchtime show along the bank. As for the food? Don’t miss the blackened Cajun catfish sandwich — it’s spicy, smoky, and just the right kind of messy. And whatever you do, save room for the bananas foster bread pudding. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you lean back, loosen your belt a notch, and wonder why you don’t do this every day.

Getting There: Ocala, Marion County is easily accessible by car from numerous airports and cities. It is located approximately 76 miles from Daytona Beach, 90 miles from Orlando and Disney World, 104 miles from Tampa and 111 miles from Jacksonville. Avelo Airlines offers direct flights from Wilmington to Orlando & Tampa weekly.