Think Ocala is just about horses?
Think again.
Ocala offers so much more than horseback riding and carriage trips.
There are numerous exciting things to do in Ocala with kids, ranging from lush natural parks to lively indoor activities.
So, start organizing your trip to the “horse capital of the world” by following our suggestions below.
- Silver Springs State Park
This refreshing playground, originally known as Silver River State Park, offers 5,000 acres of relaxation and outdoor fun.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
Begin your Ocala trip on a high note by visiting Silver Springs State Park.
It not only offers 14 miles of multi-purpose pathways, but it also includes canoe and kayak rentals.
It also features glass-bottom rides where visitors can look into the river’s crystal blue waters and observe manatees and fish.
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Recommended Ages
Silver Springs has something for everyone, including teenagers, adults, and children.
It’s a delightful and soothing area for anyone traveling with a baby.
- Canyons Zip Line and Canopy Tours
This adventure park on Gainesville Road will take your group on a high-flying journey with nine zip lines and two rope courses.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
Want to know the best Ocala activities for families looking for a thrill?
Rank this park at the top of your Ocala destinations list if you’re seeking a place to take your children.
People who wish to go gem mining, ride horses, or kayak on the water will love this park.
A canopy tour is best to enjoy the park’s exhilarating rope bridges and zip lines.
Recommended Ages
Adventurers must be at least ten years old and 70 pounds for their zip lines.
Additionally, kids less than seven are not permitted to ride horses.
- Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides
This company is available to help you make the most of your time on horseback at Cross Florida Greenway State Park.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides in Ocala is your best bet for weekend fun with the kids.
Uniquely experience the Florida Greenway on this guided horseback riding tour.
Additionally, they provide guided horseback riding excursions through the Rock Springs Run Reserve near Sorrento.
Recommended Ages
Horseback riding trips need riders to be at least six years old.
- Cross Florida Greenway
This linear park encompasses more than 60,000 acres and features around 300 miles of multi-use pathways.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
In need of cost-free Ocala family activities?
Cross Florida Greenway is a fantastic place to spend a few hours hiking or biking.
In addition to the paths, the park also features picnic areas, campsites, and playgrounds.
Recommended Ages
Visitors of all ages can enjoy Cross Florida Greenway at a low cost.
- Ocala Drive-in Theatre
This drive-in theater opened in 1948 and is one of Ocala’s most unique places to take children.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
This historical spot offers more than just a drive-in theater from the past.
Guests of this cinema have access to a separate game section loaded with exciting arcade machines.
In addition, there’s a concession stand with delicious pizza, fries, and burgers.
Recommended Ages
The Ocala Drive-in Theatre is an excellent place for families with kids of all ages.
- Rainbow River
This twisting river, which is 5.7 miles long, was classified as a Registered Natural Landmark in 1972.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
Is it too hot in Florida for you?
Then, cool up with a dip in the Rainbow River’s pristine, quiet waters.
For a more thrilling experience, you and your loved ones can rent tubes and float down the river.
Recommended Ages
For children aged 6 to 18, a visit to Rainbow River is a fun and thrilling excursion.
- Crones Cradle
This 750-acre organic farm produces fresh produce without using artificial fertilizers or pesticides.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
This Natural farm is a great place to take the kids for a day of fun in the great outdoors.
Your loved ones are welcome to observe honey demonstrations, wander the greenhouse and gardens, and participate in any available seminars.
Recommended Ages
Children aged 3 to 12 will enjoy the fun and learning opportunities at Crones Cradle.
- Petting Zoo Ocala
Ocala’s Petting Zoo is a USDA-licensed and -insured animal sanctuary that provides care for a wide range of domestic and wild animals.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
This petting zoo should be on every family’s itinerary when visiting Ocala.
Children and their parents can enjoy petting and feeding various animals at Ocala’s Petting Zoo.
Camels, trains, and ponies can be ridden, and a picnic area can also be used.
Recommended Ages
The Ocala Petting Zoo is an excellent place for kids of all ages, especially those in the 3-to-12-year-old range, to have a good time.
- Wayne’s World of Paintball
This paintball field was built on Pine Street with various game types and objectives.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
Exciting paintball games can be held in Wayne’s World’s many arenas and fields.
Families who don’t already own paintball gear can take advantage of the facility’s pro store and rental options.
Recommended Ages
The minimum age requirement of 10 is set for this paintball center.
- Easy Street Family Fun Center
This fun center has over 60 games for all ages, including redemption for prizes and video games.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
The Easy Street Family Fun Center has attractions and games for all ages.
The facility offers a wide variety of activities, from go-karts to miniature golf, making it fun for people of all ages.
I think it’s one of the best family-friendly activities in Ocala, Florida, for kids of all ages.
Recommended Ages
Games and activities at the Family Fun Center on Accessible Street are appropriate for kids of all ages.
- Horse Country Carriage Company
Beginning and ending at Kimberden Farm, this informative carriage ride covers the region’s equestrian past in about one hour.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
This company’s tours are one of Ocala, Florida’s most incredible family-friendly activities.
Ocala has a rich history of horse breeding, upbringing, and training, and your guide will fill you in on the details.
Along the route, you’ll see many beautiful horses and scenery.
Recommended Ages
The trips offered by Horse Country Carriage Company are risk-free and suitable for tourists of all ages.
- Picasso’s Palette
The trips offered by Horse Country Carriage Company are risk-free and suitable for tourists of all ages.
Why We Recommend This Kid-Friendly Activity
If you’re seeking kid-friendly activities in Ocala, Florida, and you happen to be traveling with a young artist, read on!
Next, sign your kids up for a class at an art studio and watch their inner Picasso emerge.
Feeling the urge to be creative? You can grab some ceramics and paint them whatever you like.
It may come as a surprise, but painting can be an excellent way for adults and children to relax and have fun.
Recommended Ages
Workshops and other activities at Picasso’s Palette are designed for kids ages 3 to 12.
