The Horse Girl’s Guide To HITS Ocala Horse Shows
Ahhh, Ocala in the winter. It’s like Disney World for horse people, quite literally.
From elite level competition to impeccable show grounds, rolling green cross-country fields, a national forest with hundreds of miles of horse trails, natural springs to swim in, driving distance to the real Disney World and lovely restaurants, shops and equestrian educational opportunities mixed in between, there’s just no other place quite like it for horse girls.
What used to be a hidden gem in Florida for equestrians looking for a way out of the snow in winter is no longer a best-kept secret. Ocala is growing and you can feel it all around you the second you land in Central Florida.
With competition offered nearly year-round at HITS Horse Shows Ocala, and with upgrades to the facilities in recent years, there’s competition for everyone, of every level and discipline. The legendary horse show is celebrating 45 years of competition in Ocala this year.
The Insider, a publication of HITS Horse Shows, is a great resource for those looking to stay up-to-date on what’s happening around Ocala.
Cool Accommodations
Ocala is bigger than you think, with several hotel options across town:
Hilton Ocala: Use those points to stay at a clean, crisp and professionally run hotel not far from the show venue.
Equus Inn: Here, every room has been curated with comfort and style in mind.
Residence Inn: Great for a short or extended stay nearby the grounds.
Springhill Suites: Enjoy classic old Florida charm that really boasts the theme of the “Horse Capital of World” mantra Ocala is known for.
Everhome Suites: Known for their spacious rooms with full kitchenettes, 24/7 laundry facilities and a full fitness center.
Best Western: The complimentary hot breakfast goes a long way on horse show mornings.
Courtyard Marriott: Clean, dependable and close to all the action.
Tasty Treats
Archie’s Wood Fire Pizza: Located on Route 27 just minutes from the show venue, Archie’s is a food truck restaurant with a full menu, outdoor patio seating, drinks menu, daily happy hours and online ordering.
Ivy On The Square: Try the best southern cuisine in Ocala with a modern flare and great cocktail menu.
Katya Vineyards: Nestled in Ocala’s historic square for gourmet meals and fine wine, this is the perfect spot for any special occasion.
Hacienda Restaurant & Supermarket: Don’t miss this spot if you’re in the mood for authentic Mexican food. Tucked away in a nondescript retail plaza (and with no website) it’s the real deal. A true hidden gem!
Fun For The Whole Family
Downtown Market: On Saturday mornings, take a stroll through local farm offerings, crafts, artisans and food trucks in a breezy open air pavilion.
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park: See wild horses up close in Gainesville, along with other Florida wildlife in one of many Central Florida’s state parks and nature preserves. See a full list of hiking opportunities here.
Live Music: Gainesville Rock City is known for its music venues, offering an array of genres and hot spots. Check out a list here.
Silver Springs State Park: You can’t visit Central Florida without dipping a toe in one of the many crystal clear spring waters. Check out the pristine gardens, paddle up the river or take a scenic glass-bottom boat river cruise.
Plan your experience at HITS Horse Shows Ocala, from competition to vacation, now. (Photos courtesy of HITS Horse Shows)