Things to Do — The Villages, Ocala & Central Florida
Adventures, attractions, and experiences across the region
Brownwood Paddock Square
The VillagesA rustic-themed town square in The Villages modeled after a 1890s cattle town, with nightly live entertainment, unique shops, and some of the best dining in the area. A laid-back alternative to Spanish Springs.
Cactus Jack's Trail Rides
OcalaExperience guided horseback riding tours through Florida's scenic trails with well-trained horses suitable for all skill levels.
Cross Florida Greenway
DunnellonA 110-mile multi-use trail corridor stretching across Florida, with some of the best sections running through Marion County. Hike, bike, or ride horseback through longleaf pine forests and along the historic canal route.
Dade Battlefield Historic State Park
Bushnell80-acre state park preserving the site of the 1835 Seminole ambush that started the Second Seminole War. A small museum with artifacts, an award-winning film, and an annual January battle reenactment that draws thousands. Peaceful walking trails through pine flatwoods and live oak hammock.
Float in the Forest at Lake Idamere
TavaresA unique outdoor art and nature experience on the shores of Lake Idamere, Float in the Forest combines floating sculpture installations with hiking trails through native Florida woodland. The site features rotating art pieces that float on the lake surface, a boardwalk through cypress wetlands, and curated nature paths. It's a one-of-a-kind attraction that blends art, ecology, and tranquility.
Fort Cooper State Park
InvernessA peaceful 710-acre park centered around Lake Holathlikaha, with five miles of trails through hardwood hammocks and longleaf pine flatwoods. One of Citrus County's best-kept secrets for birding and nature walks.
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Crystal RiverHome to rescued Florida wildlife including manatees, black bears, and the famous hippo Lu. The underwater Fish Bowl Observatory lets you watch manatees and fish from below the surface.
Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures
TavaresTake off from America's Seaplane City on a scenic flight over Central Florida's stunning lake country. From quick scenic hops to fly-in lunch excursions, this is a bucket-list Florida experience.
Juniper Springs
OcalaA hidden gem inside Ocala National Forest, with a stone-lined swimming area fed by a 72-degree spring. The 7-mile Juniper Springs Run canoe trail winds through one of Florida's most scenic subtropical corridors.
Lake Okahumpka Park & Trail
Wildwood130-acre park with pet stations & picnic shelters, plus a paved trail, disc-golf course & boat ramp.
Rainbow Springs State Park
DunnellonFlorida's fourth-largest spring feeds the Rainbow River with 72-degree water so clear you can see your shadow on the sandy bottom. Perfect for tubing, kayaking, and swimming in a pristine natural setting.
Silver Springs State Park
OcalaFlorida's original tourist attraction, featuring the world's largest artesian spring formation. Glass-bottom boat tours reveal an underwater world of fish, turtles, and ancient fossils in impossibly clear water.
Spanish Springs Town Square
The VillagesThe beating heart of The Villages, with free live music and entertainment nightly on the town square. Surrounded by restaurants, shops, and an energy that makes every evening feel like a street festival.
Three Sisters Springs
Crystal RiverOne of Florida's most stunning natural springs, where crystal-clear water reveals every detail of the sandy bottom. A must-visit for swimming, snorkeling, and winter manatee encounters.
Venetian Gardens Park
LeesburgA gorgeous 100-acre waterfront park on Lake Harris with arched pedestrian bridges, island walkways, and panoramic lake views. The splash pad, playgrounds, and paved trails make it a perfect family outing.
Wooton Park & Pavilion on the Lake
TavaresLakeside park featuring a play structure, a seaplane-themed splash pad (fee) & picnic areas.
World Equestrian Center
OcalaThe largest equestrian complex in the country, located in the Horse Capital of the World. Features world-class facilities, The Equestrian Hotel, dining, and year-round events open to the public.