Last Updated on March 18, 2024
When an opportunity arose to visit the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, FL, I hesitated.
Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Ocala’s reputation is built on its sprawling horse farms and storied history of breeding champion thoroughbreds. A favorable climate and fertile soil rich in limestone calcium are crucial for horse health.
Yet, my last brush with horses—a rather dramatic fall during a family vacation at a ranch—had left me more wary than intrigued by these animals. The irony of spending three days at an equestrian center wasn’t lost on me.
Would someone with a history like mine find things to do in Ocala off the saddle?
The answer was a resounding yes! Beyond its equine fame, Ocala revealed a wealth of exciting experiences, proving that even the most unexpected destinations can surprise us.
Unbridled Luxury: Inside The Equestrian Hotel
I stayed at The Equestrian Hotel, Ocala’s only AAA Four Diamond Resort. This elegant hotel, located 90 minutes by car northwest of Orlando, is at the heart of the World Equestrian Center, the United States’ most expansive equestrian complex.
The hotel offers a variety of inducements for non-equestrians besides its many popular horse shows, competitions and sporting events.
I began my exploration in the hotel’s opulent lobby, reminiscent of the grandeur typically found in the heart of Paris. Swarovski crystal chandeliers dangled from 20-foot high, recessed ceilings, and ambient light cast a glow that enhanced the area’s spaciousness.
Red and white brocade pillows adorned sleek black leather sofas, and a grand player piano serenaded visitors with soft tunes.
This meticulous attention to detail extended to the walls, which were graced with paintings of adorable dogs by local and regional artists, each capturing the essence of its object with whimsical expressions.
My eyes danced from one piece of artwork to the next, trying to choose a favorite – an impossible task.
I left the lobby and headed to my king room, which awaited with many refined touches, such as a striking white leather pillow draped with a faux bridle strap. My window offered an impressive view of the Grand Outdoor Arena.
Sweet Discoveries: From Pastries to Lollipops
Exploring the hotel further I stumbled upon a delightful café called Emma’s Patisserie. The variety of sweet-smelling gourmet pastries made choosing just one a difficult choice.
Next door, Mr. Pickles & Sailor Bear Toy Shoppe offered a safari full of cute stuffed animals on every kid’s wish list.
I stepped outside for a breath of fresh air and found myself at the Grand Arena, where I admired the riders and their horses as they moved with graceful precision, horse hoofs thudding softly upon the sand.
The kid in me was thrilled to find Miss Tilly’s Lollipops, a haven for candy lovers. Inside, my curiosity peaked as I watched the clerk wrap my selected crimson macarons.
I asked for the story behind the name ‘Miss Tilly.’ With a cheerful grin, she explained that Miss Tilly wasn’t just a name, but a nod to the owner’s cherished dog. It turns out, the tradition of naming the shops after family and pets is a heartfelt gesture that permeates the place.
Leaving the shop, I couldn’t help smiling.
Back inside the magnificent hotel, I strolled past several glamorous high-end retail shops including J. McLaughlin, Lugano Diamonds, and Rooney’s, a luxury fashion and lifestyle boutique.
I passed an impressive gym, then walked through a captivating art gallery, following the soothing scent of coconut and mango to the Calluna Spa, whose tempting packages sported whimsical names like “Midnight Trail Ride” and “Rider’s Retreat.”
I thought about booking one, but since it was almost time for dinner, I instead headed to meet my friends at Stirrups, the hotel’s upscale steakhouse.
A Feast for the Senses at Stirrups
Stirrups, an elegant southern steakhouse, quickly became my favorite restaurant at the hotel. Known for its fresh Florida seafood and prime steaks and chops, patrons can dine indoors or outside on a veranda offering superb views of activities in the Grand Arena.
My first-ever shrimp and grits experience was exquisite. The creamy dish featured scallions, country ham, mushrooms, and peas with grits that were perfectly balanced with just the right amount of cheese.
A Walking Food Tour in Ocala’s Historic District
The next morning, I headed downtown for a three-hour food walking tour taking me to several of the city’s top local restaurants.
We met Ocala insider Karen Grimes, founder of Ocala Food Walks in Ocala’s historic town square, a setting straight out of a southern-based Hallmark movie. Throughout the year, the district hosts events such as Fall First Friday Art Walks, summer Symphony Under the Stars, and hometown Christmas Parades.
Grimes related the city’s past, recounting how a severe fire on Thanksgiving Day in 1883 razed the heart of the town. The town’s response, selecting brick and other non-flammable materials for rebuilding, led to Ocala being affectionately known as “The Brick City,” a name that remains to this day.
Ocala’s Culinary Scene Uncovered
Grimes led the group to Big Hammock Brewery & Bites for our first tasting, a spot featuring an Asian Fusion menu. The ambiance, characterized by craft beers, exposed brick walls and high-top tables, provided a welcoming pub feel.
I enjoyed the Tortilla Tuesday Burrito, an inventive fusion of ramen noodles and pot roast enveloped in a tortilla and complemented by a deeply flavorful, simmered bulgogi sauce.
Next, we ventured to the District Bar & Kitchen, where the Reuben Eggrolls caught my fancy. These eggrolls, a creative twist on the classic sandwich, were replete with smoked corned beef, sauerkraut and Swiss cheese, all drizzled with a Thousand Island dressing.
Our last stop, and my favorite, was the family-owned Katya Vineyards. The building, originally a barbershop, still has the original tin ceiling and the interior’s warm, dark wood and cozy spaces gave off a romantic vibe.
The menu was unique and mouth-watering–especially the tiger shrimp served on truffle gratin potatoes with microgreens.
Kayaking the Rainbow River
The following day, I embarked on a thrilling kayaking journey down the Rainbow River in Dunnellon, about a 25-minute drive from our resort. The river’s clarity was astounding, allowing me to see life on and along the riverbed.
Starting from the KP Hole Park’s dock, I glided through the river’s serene waters, mesmerized by the vibrant underwater world below, fish darting through the swaying river grasses, the water shimmering in shades of turquoise.
Exploring the river’s side channels, I paddled beneath a canopy of arching trees that stretched across the water, adding a touch of magic to the tranquil adventure.
A Day with the Grandview Clydesdales
Surprisingly, of all the things I experienced, it was the allure of this farm—a quintessential element of equine culture—that I found the most irresistible. Managed by Shannon and Karen Cobbs and their sons, the farm tour provided a deep dive into the Grandview Clydesdales’ history and day-to-day operations.
It was here that I not only learned about the family’s commitment to their remarkable venture, but also experienced a firsthand connection with the Clydesdales. The moment I reached out to touch these magnificent animals, my apprehension dissolved, giving way to a joy I couldn’t have anticipated.
As my time in Ocala drew to a close, I found myself marveling at the trip’s unexpected turns. What began with trepidation, rooted in a long-ago fall from a horse, unfolded into an array of experiences that challenged and enriched me.
Through Ocala’s rich tapestry of experiences, I learned the importance of venturing beyond the known, cherishing each moment along the way.
