Location: Ocala
Top Things to do in Ocala
Top Restaurants in Ocala
The 10 Best Things to do Good for a Rainy Day in Ocala, Florida (FL)
Ocala (/oʊˈkælə/ oh-KAL-ə) is a city located in Northern Florida. As of the 2013 census, its population, estimated by the United States Census Bureau, was 57,468, making it the 45th most populated city in Florida.
Restaurants in Ocala
1. The Ocala Escape
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 31 reviews
The Ocala Escape is Ocala's Premier Escape Room Experience! You have 60 minutes to escape from an immersive room where you’ll take part in the story of your choosing. Choose your story. Work as a team. Take chances. Look for an escape... but will you find it? The Ocala Escape offers 3, immersive and engaging, escape room experiences. All scenarios are private. Reservations must be made on our website and are required. The Ocala Escape is only staffed when there are bookings."
Reviewed By 648tinkc
They go above and beyond! Wonderful staff and great puzzles!! Perfect for ANY age. Everyone gets to participate.
2. The Firehouse Urban Axe Throwing
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 14 reviews
All the Axe, Ninja Star, and Knife throwing you can stand! The Perfect Outing For Everthing From Couples To Corperations. Rather its a night on the town, stress relief trip, date night, or your next big party/event, The Firehouse is the sharpest experience in town! Reservations are not required, but always suggested, to secure your spot in the fun. Plus it saves you some cash! Please visit our webiste Axethrowingocala.com for additional info. ABOUT US Why settle for ordinary when you can do something Axe-traordinary? After all who doesn’t want to throw some axes? The Firehouse Urban Axe Throwing is north central Florida’s newest form of entertainment. We are all about safely having fun and possibly some friendly competition. No experience is needed, we will help you bring out the inner Bad-Axe. No more Slo-cala, at The Firehouse Urban Axe Throwing we always have a Kick Axe Time!
Reviewed By JessicaB615 - Lake Worth, United States
Looking for something to do on a chilly afternoon. Glad we found this place. We had an awesome time. Sooo much fun!! Make sure to tell them if you are a first responder, you get 10% off. Highly recommend!!
3. Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 531 reviews
Reviewed By src1962 - Orange City, United States
All of Don Garlits cars are on display along with vintage drag racing and antique cars. Don is usually here and he will tell you stories of the old days if he has time.
4. Appleton Museum of Art
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 334 reviews
The museum’s permanent collections of approximately 18,000 objects include European, American, Asian, African, Contemporary and pre-Columbian art and artifacts, and a series of temporary traveling exhibitions are presented throughout the year. The museum is also building a collection of works of Florida artists which relates directly to the history and cultural heritage of the Central Florida community.
Reviewed By MarnetteS - Webster, United States
We took a day trip to Ocala to visit the Appleton Museum of Art. It was well worth the hour drive to see this outstanding collection of over 18,000 objects from the collection of Arthur Appleton. Appleton entered Dartmouth at 16, graduated with an MBA from the Amos Tuck school four years later and served in the Navy in WWII. He took over Appleton Electric from his father and is credited with 161 patents. A worldwide traveler, he began collecting at 17 years of age. The museum is located on one of six campuses of the College of Central Florida and opened in 1987. Housed on two floors, the museum reflects Appleton's eclectic collection. Art lovers will find something of interest among the varied galleries: Art for the Afterlife; Art of the Ancient World; African Art Gallery; Asian Art; Portraiture; Pre-Columbian; European Art; Maritime Art; Florida Artists; Equine. We were in awe in many of the galleries but especially African Art; Art for the Afterlife; and Asian Art. Several of the pieces have a QR code to scan; a curator gives a brief talk about the piece pointing out its unique features and notable qualities. We visited on a Saturday afternoon; there were very few visitors. The museum is Covid compliant: masks must be worn. Unfortunately, the labs (clay, art and Artspace) remain closed. However, programming continues with "Teaching Tuesdays" when new instructional online art projects are posted using basic art and craft supplies. These classes are ideal for ages 7-12. All project videos can be found on social media or at the museum website. “First Saturdays” at the Appleton are free "to enjoy the special exhibitions, permanent collection and our beautiful outdoor Sculpture Garden." Additional outreach programs include Zoom online book clubs and chats with painters. Participation is free and easy. Login details are sent via email. In 2013, the AMA was accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. Only about 10% of U.S. museums share this distinguished honor. The museum and gift shop, Appleton Store, is open Tuesday-Saturday: 10-5 and Sunday: noon-5. It is closed on Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day. Adult admission: $10; Seniors/55+: $8; Youth (6-17): $5; Children under 5: Free; Veterans and Active Military (with ID): Free. We have seen reduced admission prices for veterans but never free admission. Parking is plentiful as are restrooms and seating areas to rest and reflect. The Appleton Museum is an Ocala gem and not to be missed.
5. Ocala Civic Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 81 reviews
Reviewed By dossg - Granbury, United States
Broadway in the springs. Just went to “forever Patsy Cline”. Great production. High production values. Excellent band and wonderful performers. Top notch facility. Lots of volunteers. Must be a gem for the community. Highly recommended. Price is very reasonable.
6. Marion Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 89 reviews
Reviewed By 195margarets
Decided on a whim to drive the 12 miles to see a movie here for the first time, was well worth it. The employees are top notch, friendly and dressed so professional in white shirts with black vests. The upper level is small but the atmosphere was good, no problem if someone tall sat in front of you because of the angle of the seats. The price is only $7 before 6pm and they don't gouge you on the price of food and drinks, a hot dog with a med drink was $6. Please support this lovely refurbished bit of Ocala history, you'll be glad you did.
7. Infinite Ale Works
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 60 reviews
Reviewed By surffishFLA
Very good selection of beers with a few nice ,Belgian yeast type surprises, i.e. an awesome Dubbel at only 5%.. When I was there, I had an awesome beertender. A very nice find, and I hate writing reviews too.
8. The Corkscrew Winery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 45 reviews
We are a unique winery and brewery, that also can help you ferment your own products. We also offer group wine making classes, Paint and Sip classes, wine and beer bar, live music, and a venue for private events. We are a great spot for quiet date nights, family gatherings, team-building exercises, customer appreciation parties, and corporate events.
Reviewed By kbrown23
This was worth the trip up to Ocala from Orlando. We learned so much about the wine-making process with this fun, hands-on, interactive experience. Plus, if you enjoy different wine/beer/cider, this is your place because most of what they offer to drink is what they tinker with. The owner & staff are so personable and just the best kind of people. You can tell he loves what he does. I wish it was closer so I could go more easily.
9. The Courtyard on Broadway
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 17 reviews
The Courtyard on Broadway is unlike any other place in Ocala. It is not your typical bar. Usually found in major cities, The Courtyard offers a very diverse atmosphere. Come enjoy stunning artwork by local artist. Vibe with local acoustic artists. Challenge your friends or strangers with the many board games. Become the #1 rockstar with Karaoke Battles. With some many things to offer, you will always have a great time at The Courtyard on Broadway.
10. Reilly Arts Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 27 reviews
Reviewed By Y6855RArobb
Small intimate venue, great sound quality and views from the balcony. My wife bought me tickets to see Travis Tritt, and the whole experience (minus his political views to a captive audience ) was great. Looking forward to seeing many more shows here!
