Ocala is the 'horse capital of the world' with many fun things to do, which is why it might be one of the fastest growing cities! A few of our favorite spots are Market street at Heathbrook or WEC (World Equestrian Center) during the day. You can also visit Historic Downtown during the day or night. This has an eclectic group of eateries surrounding the Square & live entertainment. Some of our favorites are District Bar, Ivy House, Mellow Mushroom, 18 South, Marks' Prime, Harry's, Brick City, and Big Hammock Brewery & Bites. At night, head to Charlie Horse which has food, fun, live music, and the best karaoke! Come visit each place with me and see the foods AND beverages recommended. And again as a registered dietitian, I will note the healthier options with a *. I attached the links below so you can visit their website as well, enjoy!
We would also love to hear about any experiences you have at any restaurant in Ocala and tag us @fitfoodietravels or #fitfoodietravels
Market street is a luxury retail center with some of your favorite places to shop: Ulta, Homegoods, Dicks, Kirklands, Barnes & Noble, etc. However, it also has some of the best places to eat including: Panera's, Mimi's Cafe, Pizza, Crumble Cookie, and our favorite Crazy Cucumber. Crazy Cucumber has a cool industrial vibe, the best live entertainment and amazing food/drinks! See some of my favorites below, healthier picks with a *.
Named one of TIME’s 2024 World’s Greatest Places, World Equestrian Center features premier equestrian and multidisciplinary event venues that offers state-of-the-art arenas to hold fairs and different fun events. The Shoppes Off 80th will be an 80,000-square-foot outdoor shopping venue with 28 unique storefronts featuring luxury brands, all in one convenient location. Stirrups is one of my favorite places to eat at WEC so far. You feel like royalty and the food is beyond amazing!
When it’s time for some farm-to-table dining, craft beer, live music, some shopping and culture, Downtown Ocala has you covered. One of the most appealing aspect of Historic Ocala is its easy walkability. So many things to do, see, eat and drink within a few square blocks. Downtown Ocala has an actual town square with a historic gazebo that doubles as a stage for live performances. Some of our favorite places to eat: District Bar (#1), Ivy's, Harry's, Mellow Mushroom, 18 South, Mark's Prime.
District Bar is our absolute favorite place in the square! It has such a fun vibe and is one-of-a-kind! We always sit upstairs on the balcony and try to time it just right to see the sunset! They have the best live entertainment and big TV's to watch any sports event! Their food is beyond amazing, the pizza is #1 in Ocala! They also have amazing drinks with a specialty 'feature drink' each week. See some of our favorites below. Healthier pics with a *
Ivy on the Square has an elegant industrial vibe with recipes past down through the family for generations. Their menu showcases savory dishes prepared with the utmost care and tradition; offering a culinary journey that transports you back through time and directly into the heart of the South! Mellow mushroom is a fun place to gather that has the 2nd best pizza in Ocala (District Bar #1). You can also take your pick from the selection of 24 draft beers and tasty, handcrafted cocktails. Big Hammocks Brewery & Bites is an adorable little place with indoor/outdoor seating that has 12 taps that feature a mix of BHB's very own brews and rotating guest craft beer as well as a unique menu items such as Mac & cheese hot dogs, Ramen bowls, Shrimp & grits, Hot pretzel w/beer cheese, Pressed sandwiches, etc. Harry's has some of the best food and is one of my favorite chain restaurants for many reasons! 18 South Restaurant is a fun lounge & bar! Mark’s Prime Steakhouse creates a unique fine dining experience that serves the finest beef, the freshest seafood, premium wines and naturally fresh vegetables.
*For healthier picks
Finish your night off at the Charlie Horse Bar & Grill . Good food, drinks and daily events including trivia night, live music outside and the best Karaoke inside from 9pm-12am Thursday-Saturday night!
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