Reining in a Getaway
Ocala’s World Equestrian Center is your vacationing arena.
While warmer weather and an escape from cooler temperatures might have you thinking of southern destinations, this one might just be a surprise. Known for its otherworldly natural springs where the water is crystal clear and 72 degrees year-round, Ocala in Florida has long been a destination for outdoor lovers seeking adventures from scuba to skydiving, with unique experiences like glass bottom kayaking and nighttime glow paddle boarding. It is also a fantastic destination for a little disconnect from the everyday routine.
Much of that can be attributed to the city’s World Equestrian Center, a city within a city. We’re talking more than 2,000 acres and growing, featuring two hotels, including The Equestrian Hotel, a 248-room full-service luxury hotel, and The Riding Academy Hotel, offering 390 pet-friendly studios and suites. Named to TIME’s 2024 World’s Greatest Places, World Equestrian Center – Ocala is home to seven restaurants, a full-service spa and salon, two outdoor pools and more than 30 retailers, miles of walking trails, weekly equestrian competitions that attract exhibitors from all over the world, and 20+ equestrian competition rings. You read that right! Whether you are an equine and/or equestrian lover, or not, this venue is quite the awe-inducer.
Simply entering the grand gates to drive into the campus this property rests on and navigating your way to the entrance of the hotel is sufficiently impressive to give you an idea of the luxury you are about to experience. An elegant lobby decked for the occasion is the perfect welcome. In fact, if you are planning your travels for Thanksgiving and the holidays, this could just be the spot you are looking for. The décor at World Equestrian Center – Ocala is truly a sight to behold during this season. Locals and visitors delight in the celebrations the resort hosts for the holidays, right from outdoor sculptures and lights to a dazzling holiday meal, and a must-not miss special — a gigantic gingerbread sculpture made by the hotel’s very own chef. Housed in the lobby, the theme every year is a different aspect of the history of the hotel. You will just have to visit to find out what it is.
The AAA Four Diamond resort is also a paradise for art lovers. You will see portraits of dogs and horses across the campus. Sculptures by sought-after artists Gillie and Marc dot the gardens. The duo has created some of the world’s most innovative and recognizable public art and sculptures, spreading the message of animal conservation with their larger-than-life characters which cover the animal kingdom, celebrating togetherness despite differences.
If you do step away from the resort, then Downtown Ocala offers dining, arts, live music, and shopping all within a few walkable blocks. Enjoy restaurants, breweries, speakeasies, and more. The equine love shows strong through the city as its Downtown Walk of Champions pays homage to 24 four-legged stars, Hall of Famers, and Triple Crown winners – all of whom have connections to Marion County where Ocala is located. Speaking of which, with more horses living in the county than anywhere else in the United States (75,000 and counting), it’s not surprising that visitors can learn to horseback ride or visit many of the farms, including Grandview Clydesdale Farm, a family-run operation that dates to the 1200s.
This is also one of the few places in the world where you can sight manatees in the wild so be sure to sign up for a clear kayak tour at the Silver Springs State Park nearby. Local outfitters Get Up and Go Kayaking do a great job providing a guided tour and some close-up experiences with these docile creatures. Paddle through the crystal-clear waters, watch out for majestic manatees, and learn a lot about the area from your guide. While other incredible wildlife like turtles, fish, and birds are par for the course, rest assured the manatees will have your attention. The best part? Your clear kayak. A transparent bottom on your kayak means you get some stunning and unique views of both the wildlife above and below the water’s surface. Surely, an experience to remember.
