The best things to do in Marion County

“When you want a tee time that actually feels special or a backdrop worthy of your next celebration, Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club blends championship golf, equestrian charm, and elevated dining into one gorgeous Ocala moment. It’s the kind of place you suggest, then everyone suddenly clears their calendar.”

From the Ocala newsletter, August 7, 2026

“First Responders Recreation is a 19-acre tribute to our heroes with a speedy 18-hole putting course, loads of court and lawn games, and plenty of ways to stir up friendly rivalries. Grab a pal this week, try pickleball, croquet, or table shuffleboard, then unwind by the fire pit.”

From the The Villages newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Lopez Legacy Golf & Country Club is LPGA Hall of Famer Nancy Lopez’s first course design, a 27-hole layout on Marion County’s rolling terrain with live oaks and water to test you. Grab a buddy, pick a nine, and see if your short game is as good as you brag.”

From the Ocala newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Stone Creek Golf Club pairs an award-winning 18-hole Terry Doss design with Champions Bermuda greens, wide fairways, and water on 11 holes here in Ocala. Public play is welcome, with a full range, short-game areas, lessons, and The Grille... perfect for an after-round bite with friends.”

From the Ocala newsletter, September 15, 2026

“If your group chat keeps threatening a game night, Huddys Escape delivers the upgrade. Cinematic, hand-built rooms in Heath Brook Commons, always private and 60 minutes on the clock, with themes like Nineteen70, The Missing Toymaker, and Tomb of Tales that spark post-escape bragging rights.”

From the Ocala newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Bowling alley featuring laser tag and an arcade, plus black-light lanes.”

“Par-72 and home of the Ocala Open, Candler Hills Golf Course brings a Palm Springs-style vibe to Ocala’s horse country, with sabal palms, live oaks, and a layout that’s not your typical Florida track. Play a round, then hang on the patio overlooking the 18th at The Club at Candler Hills.”

From the Ocala newsletter, September 28, 2026

“Under new ownership, Bounce N Play Family Center packs over 10,000 square feet of indoor fun with jumbo bounce houses, a ninja course, tall slides, and a Sportsplex that keeps kids moving while you actually finish a coffee. Solid pick for playdates or birthday parties without the Florida heat.”

From the Ocala newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Ocala Palms Golf & Country Club serves up a 6,500-yard, par-72 track with immaculately groomed fairways winding past oaks, ponds, waterfalls and bright white bunkers. Friendly to your average game, spicy enough for your low handicap... perfect excuse to sneak in 18 this week.”

From the Ocala newsletter, October 4, 2026

“Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training (FAST) brings serious pool time with indoor and outdoor long-course pools, the FAST Falcons swim school for all ages, and training options from beginners to masters and triathletes. Bonus for parents, Cannonball Kidz gives Marion County 3rd graders free swim lessons.”

From the Ocala newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Swap scrolling for the big screen at Marion Theatre, serving up Classics and Cocktails: Casablanca, plus Tombstone and The Iron Giant this week. It’s the kind of lineup that makes date night easy and nostalgia hit just right.”

From the Ocala newsletter, October 12, 2026

“Between the new Toptracer Range and classic 19th Hole vibes, Ocala Golf Club blends historic course charm with some legit modern toys. Leagues, instruction, and plenty of events mean you can keep the sticks busy all year... and actually know a few faces on the first tee.”

From the Ocala newsletter, October 5, 2026

“Easy Street by Funworks Miniature Golf Course serves up 18 quirky holes with hills, waterfalls and bendy angles that make every putt feel like a tiny victory. Rally your people in Ocala this week, trade friendly jabs, and let the scorecard settle your neighborhood bragging rights.”

From the Ocala newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Ocala Main Street keeps Ocala’s core buzzing with a packed events calendar, a handy dining guide, maps, and self-guided tours that spotlight Brick City and the blossoming Midtown Art District. When you want markets, community happenings, and local-recommended hot spots, this is the first tab to open.”

From the Ocala newsletter, October 2, 2026

“If the kids are climbing the walls or you just need wholesome serotonin, Petting Zoo Ocala delivers friendly, hands-on encounters with well-loved animals, even a camel cameo, backed by over 40 years of expert animal care. A simple, local reset that turns screen time into smile time.”

From the Ocala newsletter, August 13, 2026

“Because some weeks just call for a big screen under actual stars, Ocala Drive-In keeps the latest movies rolling with that cozy, windows-cracked vibe. Treat yourself to the concession stand and make it your low-key plan this week.”

From the Ocala newsletter, October 10, 2026

“Eagle Ridge Golf Club gives you 36 holes of public golf across four distinct nine-hole tracks, perfect for mixing and matching routes to fit your mood. Finish at Liberty Grille for casual eats, cold drinks, and friendly vibes that feel like a victory lap even if your putter says otherwise.”

From the The Villages newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Until it fully transitions to members-only, The Golf Club at Ocala Preserve is letting locals enjoy its eighteen holes, spa bookings, and guest dining. Think two clubs with spaces for fitness, relaxation, events and even quiet contemplation... perfect when you want a polished experience without the pretense.”

From the Ocala newsletter, September 10, 2026

“If your crew loves puzzles with personality, The Ocala Escape builds fully custom, story driven rooms inspired by classic literature, scary movies and TV shows, and fairy tales. Choose from three immersive adventures, or have their mobile escape room roll up for team building or parties.”

From the Ocala newsletter, September 27, 2026

“Golden Hills Golf & Country Club is getting a serious glow-up under new ownership, with restored bunkers, refreshed greens, and upgraded practice spots, all while keeping public tee times and budget-friendly vibes that make challenging rounds and a post-game, chef-driven clubhouse meal an easy local win.”

From the Ocala newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Farm Tours of Ocala lets you peek behind the gates at working horse farms with seasoned local guides. Meet foals, Derby hopefuls, even retired champions, and pick up wild trivia about black fences, lime rock, and how Scotch Tape and Campbell Soup ended up in Marion County’s horse story this week.”

From the Ocala newsletter, October 9, 2026

“Greens that roll true, a semi-private 18-hole championship layout, and six sets of tees all make Lake Diamond Golf & Country Club a solid go-to in Silver Springs Shores. Open for public play, with lessons and a well-stocked pro shop if your swing or gear needs a nudge.”

From the Ocala newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Whether you’re herding kids, rallying teens, or just need to smash a few baseballs after work, Easy Street by Funworks packs indoor and outdoor fun with batting, climbing, and a lively arcade. A handy go-to for rainy afternoons or sticky summer nights around Ocala.”

From the Ocala newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Baseline Golf Course keeps locals happy with pristine Bermuda conditions, a quirky 19-hole layout, and the island-green “Lucky 13” you’ll want another crack at. Just walk in, hit the driving range, browse the pro shop, then chase birdies past those surprisingly photogenic waterfalls.”

From the Ocala newsletter, September 1, 2026