Ocala, FL, is more than just a scenic getaway—it's a paradise for adventure seekers, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. Whether you're exploring lush forests, historic museums, or thrilling zip lines, Ocala offers something for every traveler.

In this guide from Fast Payday Loans, Inc. in Florida, we will explain some of the top attractions in Ocala, Florida, for a weekend getaway or summer vacation. We will also discuss how those in Ocala who suffer an unexpected financial emergency can get the urgent cash they need with a payday loan.

9 Fun And Affordable Activities In Ocala, Florida

Located 40 miles south of Gainesville, FL, Ocala is a quaint town for those looking for a quiet but rewarding adventure. It is known as the “Horse Capital of the World” due to its equine activities. There are also plenty of freshwater areas to enjoy a serene afternoon by the water without the hustle and bustle of Florida’s beaches in more populous areas.

The following are nine fun places to visit in Ocala:

1. Appleton Museum Of Art

The Appleton Museum of Art is located at East Silver Springs Boulevard on the Ocala Campus of the College of Central Florida. This museum is one of Florida’s premier destinations for enjoying fine art.

This museum features traditional and contemporary artwork from around the world as well as classes and workshops to help you develop your appreciation of fine art. It has over 24,000 art objects, as well as countless events that can help deepen your appreciation of Florida’s art history.

General admission is $10 for adults, $5 for kids aged 6-17, and free for visitors younger than 6. If you’re looking for cheap activities in Ocala, you can visit the museum for free on the first Saturday of every month.

2. Ocala National Forest

Ocala National Forest is one of the most popular places to experience Florida’s scenic beauty. In addition to hiking, there are plenty of water-based activities in the forest, including taking advantage of the numerous swimming holes and natural springs.

Explore over 600 lakes, crystal-clear springs, and hiking trails that take you through the world’s largest sand pine scrub forest. There is no admission fee, so you can enjoy the serene grace of the forest free of charge.

3. Don Garlits Museum Of Drag Racing

Don Garlits, known as the "Father of Drag Racing," achieved an unparalleled record of 150 titles and championships. The Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing and International Drag Racing Hall of Fame has been open for nearly fifty years, showcasing hundreds of historical artifacts, vehicles, and exhibits across several buildings.

You can honor the pioneers of the sport with the Walk of Fame or explore the legendary collection of cars at the museum, which includes a 1940 Tudor Sedan, a 1927 Ford “T” Roadster, and a Swamp Rat Clapshaw. Admission costs $22 for adults, $17 for teenagers and seniors, and $10 for children.

4. Withlacoochee State Forest

Withlacoochee State Forest is the third-largest forest in Florida, with activities like bicycling, horseback riding, hiking, and canoeing. If you enjoy hunting, you can enjoy seasonal hunting in specific portions of the forest. You can also fish in the lakes and waterways. Thrill seekers can also enjoy off-roading at the Croom Motorcycle Area with 2,600 acres of land available for motorcycles and ATVs.

Visiting hours are 8 am to noon and 1 pm to 4 pm Monday through Friday. You can get a day pass for the Withlacoochee State Forest and other state forests for $2 or pay $45 for an annual pass.

5. Silver River Museum And Environmental Education Center

If you're looking for things to do in Ocala, FL, the Silver River Museum and Environmental Education Center is one of the best options, as it offers both entertainment and education. This is a great place to learn about wild animals, the natural environment, and the indigenous cultures native to Florida, particularly the Seminole.

You can come here for experiences like biking, boat tours, camping, fishing, hiking, stargazing, and scuba diving. It is only open to the public on weekends from 10 am to 4 pm; it is reserved for local school children during the week. Admission only costs $2 per person.

6. Canyons Zip Line And Canopy Tours

Ziplining offers a thrilling aerial view of Ocala’s natural beauty. There’s no better way to get an aerial view of Florida’s natural landscape than at Canyons Zip Line and Canopy Tours.

This Ocala attraction offers three types of activities: Adventures by Air, Adventures by Land, and Adventures by Water. You can zipline from Big Cliff Canyon to Lost Spring Lake on a 1,100-foot zip to enjoy the trees, natural water reserves, and other beautiful sites.

7. Hoggetowne Medieval Faire

The Hoggetown Medieval Faire is a fantastic activity in Ocala, FL, for those seeking a medieval throwback. This fair has been running for thirty years and offers all kinds of medieval fun, including jousting, falconry, knife throwing, juggling, and dancing. There’s also a touch of modern technology with amusement park rides for the whole family.

It has six stages to enjoy acrobats and magicians, providing throwback entertainment from medieval times. You can also go to the tournament Field to watch combat entertainment during live chess games. It offers free admission for a cheap weekend of fun in Ocala.

8. Gypsy Gold Horse Farm

Gypsy Gold Horse Farm started with a couple taking a trip to England after which they imported dozens of horses from Britain to Florida. Now the farm is an officially recognized breeder of the Gypsy Vanner breed of horses.

You can take a 2-hour tour to learn the story of the Gypsy Vanner while meeting mares, foals, stallions, and other horses. You can also enjoy the walking tour through beautiful Live Oak trees with horses. Tours are open from 10 am to 12 pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Admission costs $45 for adults and $25 for children ages 2-12. Young children can go for free.

9. Ocala Civic Theatre

One of the fun things to do in Ocala, FL, that you can enjoy on a weekend is visiting the Ocala Civic Theatre. This is a great place to see a diverse range of community-sponsored productions, including plays, musical performances, comedy, and more.

For the 2025 season, you can enjoy productions of Into the Woods, The Crucible, Little Shop of Horrors, Steel Magnolias, and Children of Eden. You can even volunteer to help with the shows or audition to take part!

While Ocala offers affordable fun, unexpected expenses can arise. If that happens, Fast Payday Loans, Inc. can help with our payday loans.

Pay For Unexpected Expenses With An Ocala Payday Loan

Traveling on a budget? If unexpected expenses arise during your trip, an Ocala payday advance can help. As long as you can prove your income, you can borrow up to $1,000 from a future paycheck. How much you can borrow depends on how much you make.

Here are the required items you will need for a cash advance in Ocala, FL:

• A state-issued photo ID with your full name and age
• Your most recent pay stub to verify your income
• A blank check from an active checking account in your name

If you need quick emergency cash, you can get it through a payday advance today. Just fill out our online form, bring your required items to our Ocala store location, and sign the loan agreement. You can get approved in person in less than 30 minutes and receive your urgent funds within one business day.

Borrow A Payday Loan In Ocala, FL – Borrow Up To $1,000 Today!

Need a financial cushion during your Ocala getaway? Learn how a payday advance can provide quick assistance when unexpected costs arise. Contact us today by filling out our online form or calling us directly. Apply online today and get approved in person in less than 30 minutes!

Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.