Ocala, Florida is located in the central northern part of the state, just north of Orlando. On a map, you can find Ocala in Marion County, west of Gainesville and east of Tampa. With its endless sunshine, natural beauty and numerous attractions, Ocala has become an increasingly popular tourist destination for those seeking stunning swimming holes along the Rainbow River and other fun activities. From our unique natural springs to hiking trails and sports complex — all with easy access from highways US 202 and I-75 — this town is sure to make any vacation memorable! Whether you are visiting for a few days or planning to stay longer, with its low cost of living Ocala makes an ideal home away from home!
What is the exact location of Ocala, Florida?
Ocala, Florida is a city located in the north-central part of the Sunshine State, roughly an hour and 45 minutes away from both Orlando and Tampa. In terms of exact coordinates, Ocala’s location is at 29 degrees North latitude, 82 degrees West longitude.
Located among the rolling hills of Marion County and spread across 32 square miles, Ocala boosts a very diverse population just under 60K people and is home to some beautiful scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Ocala National Forest lies just northeast of the city limits providing ample opportunities for hiking, camping and other outdoors activities.
The area surrounding Ocala also has plenty to offer visitors looking for some fun in the sun or historical places to visit like Silver Springs Park with its crystal clear waters or Silver River State Park with its incredibly rich biodiversity. Both these attractions invite people from all over Florida as well as tourists who come specifically because they heard about them!
Ocala is an interesting town with lots to explore! Whether you’re looking for some outdoor adventure or a more tranquil time exploring Floridian history – there’s something here waiting for everyone!
How close is Ocala to other major cities?
If you live in Ocala, Florida, you're in luck. Being located right in the heart of Central Florida, it's quite close to some major cities and bustling metropolises. For instance, Tampa is only 90 miles away - a mere 1 hour and 45-minute drive. That means that a spur of the moment shopping or entertainment jaunt to one of the Sunshine State’s largest cities is not out of reach for residents here.
Furthermore, if you love beaches, Cocoa Beach is just under 2 hours away! More specifically 112 miles away from downtown Ocala lies this beachy destination with its quaint townie vibe that evokes feelings of peace and relaxation visit after visit. In other words – another day trip could easily be in your cards!
Moving further along on I-75 brings us to our state capital Tallahassee which is roughly 139 miles distant (2 hours and 17 minutes). The Capitol building boasts beautiful Italian Renaissance-style architecture while its nearby urban plains can offer visitors an exciting atmosphere full of impromptu entertainment initiatives like open mic nights at local watering holes or rooftop concerts atop downtown highrises – again making a daytrip more than feasible via working around rush hour traffic.
Finally what about Orlando? If you’re feeling theme park vibes then Orlando (about 85 miles away) has plenty to offer from Disney Parks hangouts to Universal Studios adventures which always beckon those who seek some elaborate fun here in Central Florida... In short Orlando makes a great little weekend getaway for when cabin fever start rolling through town for those accustomed to life in Ocala!
What highway runs through Ocala, Florida?
The US Highway 441 serves as the main artery cutting through the city of Ocala, Florida. This highway stretches due south from Jacksonville to Miami and passes right through Ocala’s city limits.
Ocala is highly dependent on this major route due to its location in North Central Florida and its iconic status among Floridians. On this corridor you’ll go through areas like Gainesville, Lake City, and Leesburg before finally coming upon Ocala itself at some point along your travels.
Once you reach the city of Ocala, you’ll notice that it has a unique flavor to it. Most notably from a physical landscape perspective is The Florida Horse Park located just off 441 that houses deep rooted horse related activities all year round -- like dressage, polo, Hunter/Jumper shows topping off with an annual team penning event for which many enthusiasts gather around!
Simply put: US Highway 441 is undeniably integral in making what defines today's modern Ocala - a quaint equestrian enclave located conveniently north/south between major U.S cities in The Sunshine State!
What is the population of Ocala, Florida?
For those looking to find the population of Ocala, Florida, the answer may surprise you! Ocala is one of the most rapidly growing cities in the state of Florida. According to recent estimates from 2019, Ocala’s population was estimated to be 61,122 - a dramatic increase from just over 50,000 only one year prior.
With so much growth taking place in and around Ocala, it might be easy to overlook all that this mid-size city has to offer. Here you’ll find yourself immersed in a warm and welcoming culture that loves its town and loves its people. Here locals can enjoy parks or take their family down horse trails right through historic downtowns or quaint neighborhoods lined with majestic oaks and freshly painted bungalows belonging to long-time residents who carry on stories about growing up here before our time. The whole area blooms when spring rains come rolling over Marion County greening up pastures for proud farmers continuing their legacy alongside championship golf courses affording views of horse farms galore! Whether you are looking for a new home or simply passing through on vacation with your RV motorhome there is something here made special just by being part of this incredible place we call home; Ocala extends an open door atmosphere plus soft setting sunsets but also an openness unique only found in such small towns as these--Ocalans live life like family all within it's bumpy jagged borders already at 118 years young! So we invite you now join us--come see what makes "prouder than proud" this community known as the mighty strong...OCALA
What are the nearby attractions in Ocala, Florida?
Ocala, Florida is an attractive city to visit for its natural beauty and nearby attractions. Located just 45 minutes southwest of Orlando, the “Horse Capital of the World” is home to some incredible sights you won't want to miss.
One of the top nearby attractions in Ocala are its famous horse ranches, where you can find beautiful horses living within a picturesque landscape. For example, Adena Springs Ranch offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with horses while enjoying activities such as Wild West rides and tractor-pulled hayrides. Visitors can also enjoy an afternoon out on one of several large lakes within a short drive from Ocala. Lake Weir and Silver Springs are favorites for fishing or taking in some sun on the sand beach at SummerGlen Park.
If you’re looking for traditional tourist spots, then Ocala has something for everyone too! How about experiencing life on a real working farm at Marion Country Farms? There are special events throughout the year; like wild hog hunts or picking your own strawberries during strawberry season! Arts lovers should make sure to explore some of downtown Ocale's galleries featuring local artwork; such as Gallery East and The Appleton Museum of Art - both offering educational tours and classes throughout the year.
No matter what type of adventure you're after during your stay in Florida's “Horse Capital” be sure to explore these nearby attractions in Ocala - there's something here that everyone will enjoy!
How many counties does Ocala, Florida include?
Many people are unaware that Ocala, Florida actually has two counties associated with it - Marion County and Levy County. Ocala is located in the middle of Marion County, while Levy County lies to the east of it.
Marion County is an incredibly diverse area with almost 336,000 residents and covers an area of over 1,600 square miles. It's home to several important tourist destinations such as Silver Springs State Park and Rainbow River State Park. It also contains popular cities such as Belleview, Dunnellon and Ocklawaha within its boundaries.
Levy County is much smaller than Marion county but still provides a lot for its relatively small population of nearly 41,000 people. In fact, Levy has some of Florida's most beautiful natural landmarks like Manatee Springs State Park and Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge which makes it a great destination for visitors looking to explore all the region has to offer in terms of untouched beauty.
Collectively there are many unique attractions that draw curious travelers from all walks of life looking for adventure in both Marion county and Levy county when visiting or living in Ocala! So remember if you plan on ever making a pilgrimage out west - there are two counties included with your stay connected to the city!
