Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

The museum is home to over 75 racing cars including hot-rods, muscle cars and more, as well as racing memorabilia and history.

View Details

Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

The museum is home to over 75 racing cars including hot-rods, muscle cars and more, as well as racing memorabilia and history.

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

This museum is home to over 75 racing cars including hot-rods, muscle cars and more, as well as racing memorabilia and history.

The name Don Garlits is well known by hot-rod fanatics all over the world, and for good reason. With 17 World Championship Titles, Don has made his mark on the drag racing industry. The racing legend has accomplished many feats during his time as the “King of the Dragsters” including winning the National Hot Rod Association, N.H.R.A., Nationals eight times, receiving the title of the number one drag racer in the last 50 years by the N.H.R.A. and branding his own line of record-breaking racecars, the Swamp Rats.

Named to celebrate Don Garlits southern roots, his collection of 34 Swamp Rats has been breaking records since he manufactured the very first one. The racecars have broken an astonishing amount of previously recorded top speeds, being the first automobiles in the N.H.R.A. to go over 170, 180, 200, 240, 250, 260 and 270 mph throughout the years. One of his finest creations, Swamp Rat XXX has been so celebrated in the racing community it is on display at the Smithsonian Museum of American History.

While guests to cannot view this spectacular piece of machinery, many of the other Swamp Rats are on display as well as other displays of automobile history and innovation. Because of his knowledge and dedication, Don Garlits is the authority on automobiles in the area, and his museum is a must-see for those staying in The Ocala area! 4

Click Here for Website

Accessible Rooms

Accessible Rooms Ocala

View Details

Accessible Rooms

Accessible Rooms Ocala

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

Our handicapped accessible rooms are modified for utmost comfort and convenience. All of these rooms feature safety bars in the shower, extra wide doorways, wide spacing between beds, lowered signage, furniture and counters adjusted for reduced reach ranges, and modified beds. Bathtub seats are also available upon request as are TTY/TTD services.

Step inside any one of our newly redesigned Ocala hotel rooms to experience comfortable, relaxing accommodations and superior service in the heart of Central Florida. Conveniently located along Interstate 75, exit, 341, our Sleep Inn & Suites of Ocala-Belleview is home to a fantastic selection of great lodging options including a heated outdoor pool, a 24/7 fitness center, a 24/7 business center, a suite of useful in-room amenities, and a complimentary deluxe breakfast served fresh everyday. All of the rooms in our Ocala hotel are smoke and allergy-free and come equipped with de-humidifiers to combat the hot and heavy Florida summers.

Our Ocala hotel guest rooms are also outfitted with large 32 inch flat screen TVs with premium movie channels, mini-refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, work spaces, iron and ironing board, free local calls, and complimentary high speed wireless internet. Pet rooms are available. There is a $25 pet fee up to 50 pounds and a maximum of 2 pets are allowed per room

Take a closer look at the many amenities that await you inside our comfortable Ocala hotel.
Complimentary high speed Internet
Microwave & fridge
Flat Screen TV
One cup coffee maker
Serta Pefect Sleeper mattresses
Free local calls
Free hot breakfast buffet
100% Non-smoking
Power Stations
Handicap accessible
Curved shower rod
Air dehumidifiers
Premium Movie Channels (Showtime)
Pet-friendly rooms
Iron & ironing board
Hairdryer
Free newspaper
Large work desk
Safe

Ocala Speedway

View Details

Queen Rooms Sleep Inn

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

Sleep in comfort with up to four adults in our Ocala, Florida Double Queen hotel room. This room type offers two Queen-size deluxe mattresses which make it a perfect choice for families, youth sports teams, or church groups.

Step inside any one of our newly redesigned Ocala hotel rooms to experience comfortable, relaxing accommodations and superior service in the heart of Central Florida. Conveniently located along Interstate 75, exit 341, our Sleep Inn & Suites of Ocala-Belleview is home to a fantastic selection of great lodging options including a heated outdoor pool, a 24/7 fitness center, a 24/7 business center, a suite of useful in-room amenities, and a complimentary deluxe breakfast served fresh everyday. All of the rooms in our Ocala hotel are smoke and allergy-free and come equipped with de-humidifiers to combat the hot and heavy Florida summers.

Our Ocala hotel guest rooms are also outfitted with large 32 inch flat screen TVs with premium movie channels, mini-refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, work spaces, iron and ironing board, free local calls, and complimentary high speed wireless internet. Pet rooms are available.There is a $25 pet fee up to 50 pounds and a maximum of 2 pets are allowed per room

Take a closer look at the many amenities that await you inside our comfortable Ocala hotel.
Complimentary high speed Internet
Microwave & fridge
Flat Screen TV
One cup coffee maker
Serta Pefect Sleeper mattresses
Free local calls
Free hot breakfast buffet
100% Non-smoking
Power Station
Handicap accessible
Curved shower rod
Air dehumidifiers
Premium Movie Channels (Showtime)
Pet-friendly rooms
Iron & ironing board
Hairdryer
Free newspaper
Large work desk
Safe

Ocala Breeder Sales

View Details

Ocala Breeder Sales

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

Ocala Breeder Sales, known by Ocala locals as OBS, is world-famous for its offering of top-quality thoroughbreds. With summer sales of two-year olds, horses of racing age and yearlings as well as a mixed sale in fall, those looking to purchase a thoroughbred have several opportunities to see the best of the best in person. OBS also offers a catalog of available horses listed by sire, dam, consignor and by state in which they were bred.
For those not interested in purchasing horses, OBS offers a variety of other activities including races and inter-track wagering. With thoroughbred racing, dog racing and Jai Alai there is plenty of action for spectators to soak-up and to bet on if they feel inclined. The venue also boasts its own restaurant, Championship Restaurant, and Ocala Breeders Feed and Supply. The store, which has been open 25 years, produces its own horse feed for the highest quality and freshness.
For equestrians staying at the Howard Johnson Ocala, a short trip to Ocala Breeder Sales is definitely one thing you don’t want to miss.

Holiday Inn Express Silver Springs

A nearby hotel to Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

View Details

Holiday Inn Express Silver Springs

A nearby hotel to Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

Provided by: Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

View Service

Details:

The Holiday Inn Express and Suites Ocala-Silver Springs hotel welcomes you to the heart of horse country, Florida. Located in the center of Ocala, the "Horse Capital of the World", our hotel provides guests with convenient access to the best of Central Florida.

Our Ocala-Silver Springs hotel is surrounded by the finest activities perfect for family friendly vacations. Silver Springs State Park, full of naturally formed cold-water springs, and Wild Waters Theme Park, the perfect place to cool down on a hot summer day, are just around the corner. We also invite you to visit the Historic Downtown Ocala – full of historic buildings, local shopping and fine dining located just four miles away. For the ultimate nature adventurer, the Ocala National Forest entrance is just about a mile east of the hotel offering endless land and water-based activities.

Visit Holiday Inn Express Silver Springs

Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

View Details

Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

You can have your delight for a one stop shop for all your gourmet, exotic, and everyday chocolate needs. If we don't have your desires on the shelf, simply make an order in advance and we can customize it specifically for you. We are a neighborhood store in a neighborly community, see you at Ocala's Chocolate & Confections!

We also offer many chocolate fruits, other chocolate products and ice creams at our shop!

Visit Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

Corporate Gifts

Corporate Gift Baskets, Corporate Gifts

View Details

Corporate Gifts

Corporate Gift Baskets, Corporate Gifts

Provided by: Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

View Service

Details:

Coming Soon

Ice Cream

Ice Cream in Ocala

View Details

Ice Cream

Ice Cream in Ocala

Provided by: Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

View Service

Details:

Ice Cream
We have over 30 flavors of Ice Cream! Come by the shop and have a taste of all that we have to offer.
Our Flavors
Chocolate
Vanilla
Strawberry
Cookie Dough
Toasted Coconut
Rum Raisin
Grape Nut
Cherry Oblivion
Calypso Crunch
Elephant Ears
Garbage Can
Mackinac Turtle Fudge
Dulce de Leche Cheesecake
Raspberry Truffle
Rainbow Sherbert
Butter Pecan
Pistachio
German Chocolate
Bear Claw
Captain's Chocolate
Mexican Hot Chocolate
Mint Chip Special
Cookies 'n Cream
Stellar Coffee
Superman
AND MORE

Gypsy Gold Vanner Horses

View Details

accessibility statement

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

We want everyone who visitis the http://www.ocalasilverspringshotel.com/ website to feel welcome and find the experience rewarding.

What Are We Doing?

To help us make the hdghotels.com websites a positive place for everyone,we've been using the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0. These guidelines explain how to make web content more accessible for people with disabilities, and user friendly for everyone.

The guidelines have three levels of accessibility (A, AA, and AAA). We've chosen Level AA as the target for the hdghotels.com website.

How Are We Doing?

We've worked hard on the hdghotels.com website and believe we've achieved our goal of Level AA accessibility. We monitor the website regularly to maintain this, but if you do find any problems, please get in touch.

Let Us Know What You Think

If you enjoyed using the hdghotels.com website, or if you had trouble with any part of it, pleas get in touch. We'd like to hear from you in any of the following ways:

Email us at info@hdghotels.com
Call us at 352-867-1347

The Market of Marion

View Details

Guest Satisfaction

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

Please let us know how your stay has been at Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

Things To Do at Ocala National Forest

View Details

Things To Do at Ocala National Forest

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Having year-round favorable climate conditions, the Ocala National Forest is a venue of countless outdoor recreations ranging from camping, bird and nature watching, horseback and ATV riding, hiking and dirt-biking. The Ocala National Forest is also rich in water resources having more than 600 freshwater lakes, slow-moving rivers and crystal-clear springs. For this reason, thousands of visitors enjoy fishing, snorkeling, boating, scuba diving, canoeing or kayaking, and swimming all year long. We also have free boat plug-ins in our parking lot for those who need to recharge their boats overnight.

Boating

Central Florida’s Ocala National Forest offers more than 600 lakes and 23 small springs for your boating enjoyment. Your adventure can begin at any one of 19 boat launch areas. Some ramps are paved, some are unpaved but improved clay or sand, and others are unimproved clay or sand and may require 4-wheel drive to use. Both motorized and un-motorized boating are available. Motorized boating includes the use of outboard motors, trolling motors, and Jet skis. Areas where motorized boats are allowed include, Beakman Lake, Buck Lake Group Use Area, Chain of Lakes, Doe Lake Boat Ramp, Doe Lake Recreation Area, Farles Prairie Recreation Area, Halfmoon Lake, Lake Bryant, Lake Catherine, Lake Charles, Lake Dorr Boat Ramp, Lake Dorr Recreation Area, Lake Eaton Boat Ramp and Pier, Lake Eaton Campground, Lake Jumper, Lake Kerr, Lake Lou, Lake Mary, Lake Shore Group Campground, Mill Dam Boat Ramp, Mill Dam Recreation Area, Ocklawaha River, Eureka Dam Boat Ramp, Johnson Field Boat Ramp, Moss Bluff Lock & Dam, Redwater Lake, Rodman Recreation Area, Kirkpatrick Dam Boat Ramp, Salt Springs, and the St. John’s River.

Fishing

Some of the best bass fishing in Florida can be found in the Ocala National Forest. Several record-setting bass have been caught here including one which nearly captured Florida’s record for the longest bass ever caught. Bass species include largemouth and striped. Other types of fish which you may encounter on your Ocala adventure include chubsuckers, gar, and many varieties of small panfish. You can choose to fish from a bank or from a boat. Fishing in the Ocala National Forest allows an angler to choose open water or heavy cover, crystal clear lakes and ponds or thick, stained waters. Catch-and-release programs have allowed the fish population in the Ocala National Forest to grow to healthy levels and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has even introduced new hybrid species of trophy fish into the local lakes. Three
visitors’ centers and two ranger stations are situated in the Ocala National Forest and can provide maps of the local waterways. If you need a fishing license before hitting the water, just call 1-888-FISH-FLORIDA, or visit their
website.

Hunting

The approximately 383,000 acre Ocala National Forest is a perfect destination for the hunting experience of a lifetime. It is the southernmost forest in the lower 48 states and boasts the world’s largest sand pine scrub forest. Both big and small game hunting are available within this national forest. The small game hunting area is limited to the Big Bass Campground and only allows hunting of squirrels and raccoons, however, small game hunting is allowed year-round. Typical hunting in the Ocala National Forest includes either gun or bow hunting of game such as deer and wild hogs. The Ocala National Forest is a wildlife management area (WMA) and is controlled by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Therefore, certain game can only be hunted
during specified seasons and may require a valid Florida hunting license. Hunt camps are available during the regular gun season.

Eco-Tours
& Guided Expeditions

There are many certified hunting and fishing guides in Ocala who can offer an exciting expedition into the heart of Central Florida’s wilderness. Whether you want to shoot wildlife with a gun, bow, or just a camera, these experienced guides can ensure that your adventure is safe and successful. Tours available include gun hunting during defined hunting seasons, bow hunting of wild hogs, pole fishing (as well as bow fishing), boating eco-tours, airboat tours, kayaking tours, and more. One local guide service, West Shore Outfitters, provides customized wild hog bowhunting, bowfishing, and boating tours within the Ocala National Forest. This service is run by USCG certified Captain, Matt Northcutt. West Shore has a unique NO KILL, NO PAY policy where you are
guaranteed a wild hog during your hunting trip. You can rest assured that you will not come home empty handed. You will leave with one of several trophies; either some delicious hog meat or a trophy hog. West Shore also offers in-house taxidermy. The best thing about these tours is that no license is required! To book an expedition with West Shore, simply visit their website here.

Bird
Watching

The Ocala National Forest is an ornithological mecca which draws bird lovers from across the country to experience a wealth of avian species. Birds that one might see in the wetland areas of the forest, include anhingas, kingfishers, egrets, ibises, hummingbirds, blackbirds, coots, cormorants, sparrows, quails, crows, cuckoos, cranes, anis, doves, ducks, eagles, buntings, bitterns, chickadees, herons, gulls, jays, pelicans, loons, owls, spoonbills, sandpipers, storks and many other avian taxa. Other species that you may encounter in the forests are cardinals, hawks, sand hill cranes, and owls. The Great Florida Birding Trail even weaves throughout the forest including portions of Alexander Springs and Salt Springs Recreation Areas.

Off-Road
Trails

The Ocala National Forest is an OHV enthusiast’s paradise, boasting 200 miles of ATV / motorcycle trails and an additional 81 miles of off-road trails for Jeeps and other 4WD vehicles. Amongst the many off-road trails is a 14 mile “motorcycle-only” stretch, with an additional 35 miles of trail also accessible to motorcycles, all terrain vehicles (ATVs), and utility vehicles (UTVs) less than 50 inches wide. A further 76 miles of trail allows off-road vehicles to share scenic, maintained corridors with licensed vehicles such as cars and trucks. To find out more about ATV tours, please visit ATV Off-Road Adventure Tours.

Ocala – Horse Capital of the World

View Details

Ocala – Horse Capital of the World

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Horse Country – Ocala

There are only four places on earth that are designated “Horse Capital of the World“. Ocala-Marion County is one and the other three are Lexington, Kentucky; Newmarket, England; and Chantilly, France.

Even to the uninitiated, it is quite obvious why the U.S. Department of Agriculture branded Ocala the title of Horse Capital of the World back in 1999. With over 600 horse farms scattered all throughout the county, it is almost impossible not to see one when driving around town.

History

The beginning of Ocala’s horse industry can be traced back to one man named Carl G. Rose who in 1916 came to Florida from Indiana to supervise the construction of the state’s first asphalt road. After experimenting with limestone as an asphalt additive, he theorized that the abundance of the mineral in Ocala’s soil meant that it was an ideal location for breeding and raising strong horses. In 1943, Rose bought acreage along State Road 200 and the Rosemere Farm was born. The farm would later become the site of Paddock Mall and Central Florida College. By the time he died in 1963, Rose was said to be responsible for establishing at least 30 thoroughbred farms in Marion County.

Home of the Champions

Champions of the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes have been bred, raised or trained in Ocala, Florida. Most famous of all is “Affirmed” who is also the most recent winner of the Triple Crown (winning all three above races) – considered to be the greatest accomplishment in thoroughbred racing. In all, Ocala’s horse farms have produced 45 national champions, 6 Kentucky Derby winners, 20 Breeder’s Cup champions and 6 Horses of the Year.

Horse Events in Ocala, Florida

Horse Shows in the Sun (HITS) – For five weeks each winter, HITS hosts one of the largest hunter/jumper shows in the United States. Held at the Post Time Farms, the annual event draws thousands of competitors and horse enthusiasts all around the world. HITS brings the area an estimated $30 million, to Marion County hotels, motels, restaurants, tack and feed stores.

Live Oak International – Since its inception in 1993, the Live Oak Combined Driving Event has become one of the premier Combined Driving Events in North America. Since 1995, the Event has hosted Selection Trials for both the United States and Canadian Equestrian Teams and in 1998, was granted international sanctioning by the Federal Equestre Internationale.

Ocala Breeder Sales Auctions – The Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company sells over $100 million worth of thoroughbreds a year in its seven auctions. OBS also features an Inter-Track Wagering Teletheater where fans can watch and wager on horse racing simulcasts from around the country.

Florida Horse Park Events – An official training site for the US Equestrian Team, the park now hosts World- and Olympic-level equine sports competitions. All-year events in the Florida Horse Park ranges from combine driving, dressage, eventing, foxhunting, hunter/jumper, polo and trail-riding.

Horse Drawn Carriage Rides – Ocala has a wonderful horse culture which includes competitions, breeder sales, invitationals, horse farm tours, and also the wildly popular horse drawn carriage rides. A unique attraction in Downtown Ocala in the Christmas season are carriage rides on the square provided by Horse County Carriage Company. This festive tradition does not have to stop after the holidays are over, however, as Horse Country Carriage Rides is open all year at Kimberden Farms. Group tours and family tours are ideal. You can find out more by clicking the link above.

Tags: belleview, equestrian, equiventures, Florida, florida horse park, HITS, horse fever auction, horseback riding, horses, horses in the sun, live oak invitational, ocala, Ocala Breeder sales, post time farms

Accessible Rooms

Accessible Hotel Rooms Howard Johnson Ocala

View Details

Accessible Rooms

Accessible Hotel Rooms Howard Johnson Ocala

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

Relax in Comfort at our Ocala Hotel

Our accessible rooms all feature Serta Perfect Sleeper Mattresses, safety bars in the shower, extra wide doorways, wide corridors between beds, lowered signage, modified emergency alarm systems, furniture and counters adjusted for reduced reach ranges, and modified beds. Roll-in showers and rooms for the hearing-impaired are also available in some rooms upon request. Wall-mounted folding bathtub seats are also available in some rooms and removable bathtub seats are available for all rooms upon request.

Take a closer look at the many amenities that await you inside our comfortable Ocala hotel. View our gallery of photos or take a virtual tour.

Accessible Guest Room Features
Complimentary High Speed Internet
Microwave & Fridge in all rooms
Complimentary Continental Breakfast
Permanent non-smoking rooms
In-room safes
Handicap accessible
40″ Flat Screen TVs with free HBO
Large work table
Pet-friendly rooms

Going Green

View Details

Going Green

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

Sleep Inn & Suites Hotel of Ocala-Belleview, Florida has undergone many changes in our efforts to Go Green. What does that mean exactly? We have one earth…One chance to get it right.

How has our hotel made advances in the Going Green initiative? Here are some of our best practices for going GREEN:

Conversion to all LED lighting interior/exterior
Implementation of a preventative maintenance program
Purchasing the most energy-efficient equipment available
Team member training on best green practices
Use of Eco-friendly, green chemicals
Planting indigenous landscaping which requires less water
Install water censors on sprinkler systems
Replace aerators on all bath sinks reducing 2.5gal per minute to 1.5gal
Implement a Linen Reuse for our guest rooms
Provide recycle receptacles throughout hotel vending areas and exterior areas

Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides

View Details

Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Aside from having the most number of horses and ponies in residence in the country, Marion County also boasts of countless miles of scenic horse trails waiting to be discovered by nature lovers and horse aficionados. For recreational riders, the Silver River State Park which is about 3 minutes from the Holiday Inn Express Ocala-Silver Springs just opened 10 miles of new trail system and is gaining fans quickly.

In addition to the relaxing shade provided by the thick canopy above, the trail which is part of Ocala National Forest also provides an exciting display of a healthy ecosystem teeming with wildlife. Visitors can bring their own horses or contact our friends at Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides (352) 266-9326 for a guided trail ride any day of the week. Cactus Jack’s is also the leading trail ride provider at the nearby Florida Horse Park and Cross Florida Greenway. Guests staying at the Holiday Inn Express Ocala-Silver Springs are entitled to a huge discount so don’t forget to mention you’re with us when you reserve your rides!

For trail ride reservation, please contact:
www.cactusjackstrailrides.com
phone: 352-266-9326
e-mail: deb@cactusjackstrailrides.com

Catering

Catering Ocala

View Details

Catering

Catering Ocala

Provided by: Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

View Service

Details:

Coming Soon

Accessibility Statement

Pet Policy

View Details

Accessibility Statement

Pet Policy

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

We want everyone who visitis the hotelocala.com website to feel welcome and find the experience rewarding.

What Are We Doing?

To help us make the hdghotels.com websites a positive place for everyone,we've been using the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0. These guidelines explain how to make web content more accessible for people with disabilities, and user friendly for everyone.

The guidelines have three levels of accessibility (A, AA, and AAA). We've chosen Level AA as the target for the hotelocala.com website.

How Are We Doing?

We've worked hard on the hotelocala.com website and believe we've achieved our goal of Level AA accessibility. We monitor the website regularly to maintain this, but if you do find any problems, please get in touch.

Let Us Know What You Think

If you enjoyed using the hotelocala.com website, or if you had trouble with any part of it, please get in touch. We'd like to hear from you in any of the following ways:

Email us at info@hdghotels.com
Call us at 352-867-1347

Dining

View Details

Dining

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

Sleep Inn Ocala Hotel Serving Free Breakfast Daily

A great breakfast awaits you at Sleep Inn & Suites Ocala-Belleview. Offering a free deluxe continental breakfast every morning, this Ocala hotel serves morning favorites such as made-to-order Belgian waffles, flaky biscuits with warm sausage gravy, sausage, hot eggs, hot and cold cereals, breakfast pastries, fresh fruits, yogurts and hot or cold beverages. Complimentary breakfast at Sleep Inn Ocala is available on weekdays from 6:00 to 10:00 in the morning and on weekends from 6:30 to 10:30am.

For our guests who crave for a caffeine fix, our Ocala hotel provides a 24-hour gourmet coffee station in our lobby. Freshly-baked cookies are also available starting at 5PM to 8PM from Sunday through Thursday.

Ocala Restaurants Near Sleep Inn & Suites Ocala-Belleview

Sonny’s Barbeque
1794 County Road 484, Ocala, FL
(352) 245-5595 | Distance: 0.01 mile

Popeyes Chicken
2175 SW Highway 484, Ocala, FL 34473
(352) 484-1800 | Distance: 0.04 mile

Kentucky Fried Chicken
13545 SW 17th CT, Ocala, FL
(352) 307-4300 | Distance: 0.01 mile

Cracker Barrel
13561 Southwest 17th CT, Ocala, FL
(352) 307-7222 | Distance: 0.01 mile

Taco Bell
13545 S.W. 17th CT, Ocala, FL
(352) 307-4300 | Distance: 0.01 mile

484 New York Pizza
1665 SW County Hwy 484, Ocala, FL
(352) 347-4484 | Distance: 0.01 mile

Mi Tierra Caliente Mex Rst
2105 SW Highway 484 Suite 5, Ocala, FL
(352) 245-1345 | Distance: 0.2 mile

Tony’s Sushi
3405 SW College Road, Ocala, FL
(352) 237-3151 | Distance: 10.5 miles

Mojo Grill & Catering
4496 SW 100th Place, Ocala, FL
(352) 307-1241 | Distance: 10.5 miles

Olive Garden
3363 Southwest College Rd, Ocala, FL
(352) 854-0900 | Distance: 10.5 miles

Stumpknockers
13821 SW Hwy 200, Ocala, FL
(352) 854-2288 | Distance: 15.5 miles

Ruby Tuesdays
3500 SW College Rd, Ocala, FL
(352) 873-1999 | Distance: 10.5 miles

Ocean Buffet
3425 SW College Rd, Ocala, FL
(352) 789-6266 | Distance: 10.5 miles

Yamato Japanese Steakhouse
4714 Southwest College Rd, Ocala, FL
(352) 304-6077 | Distance: 11.2 miles

Bonefish Grill
4701 Southwest College Rd, Ocala, FL
(352) 873-3846 | Distance: 11.2 miles

Ipanema
2023 South Pine Ave, Ocala, FL
(352) 622-1741 | Distance: 13.2 miles

Harry’s Seafood, Bar and Grill
24 Southeast 1st Ave, Ocala, FL
(352) 840-0900 | Distance: 13.2 miles

Ocala Banquet Events, Weddings, and Catering

Although our hotel does not have onsite event facilities, we do have local banquet halls and outdoor event venues that we recommend. The local catering service, Mojo’s Grill Catering, offers mobile catering as well as event planning services which work with these local venues to produce a beautiful and tasteful occasion, whether it is a wedding, a reception, a corporate outing, a meeting, or a party.

To find out more about Mojo Grill Catering and their available Ocala area event venues, please click here. Our hotel also has packages available where you can book your event with Mojo, your guest sleeping rooms with our Sleep Inn and Suites, and you can receive complimentary transportation from the hotel to the nearby event venue and back (some restrictions apply). If you are interested in finding out more about this service, please contact us.

Hotel Meeting Rooms

Ocala Hotel Meeting Rooms are available at Howard Johnson Inn Ocala.

View Details

Hotel Meeting Rooms

Ocala Hotel Meeting Rooms are available at Howard Johnson Inn Ocala.

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

Ocala Hotel Meeting Rooms & Banquets

Our Howard Johnson Inn is the perfect location to host your next meeting that may
call for as few as 18 people or as many as 100 people. With nearly 2,000 sq
feet of meeting space, we can accommodate both small, intimate meetings as well
as large training and charity benefits.

Our hotel also features on-site catering with an experienced cook and basic bar
service available for the enjoyment of your guests.

Please note:
1) There is a $100 NON-REFUNDABLE deposit at the time of signing the Meeting Room Contract. Deposit will go towards total payment.
2) Before time of event, there is a $150 incidentals deposit. If there is NO DAMAGE done, it will be refunded. This includes (carpet, table, chairs, walls, etc.) Paid in cash or authorization on credit card.
3) Meeting room spaces must be paid in full 30 days prior to arrival date. Any booking made less than 30 days must be paid in advance and NON-REFUNDABLE.
4) ALL cancellations must be made 30 days prior to the event date. After the Payment deadline, the payment becomes NON-REFUNDABLE.

PART ONE: All prices are subject to sales tax

Boardroom| 20 People | No Food or is catered by Howard Johnso
6+ Hours = $200
3-5 Hours = $175
3 Hours = $150
1 Hour = $125

Whole Meeting Room | 100 People | No Food or is catered by Howard Johnson
6+Hours = $350
3-5 Hours = $275
3 Hours = $225
1 Hour = $175

Half Meeting Room | 50 People | No Food or is catered by Howard Johnson
6+ Hours = $250
3-5 Hours = $225
3 Hours = $175
1 Hour = $150

Equipment Prices:
Television/DVD Player: $100+tax
Microphone: $50+tax
Overhead and screen: $50=tax
Flip Chart: $50=tax
Linen Table Cloth: $6+tax per table

PART TWO:

Boardroom | 20 People | Food brought from outside
6+ Hours = $275
3-5 Hours = $250
3 Hours = $225
1 Hour = $200

Whole Meeting Room | 100 People | Food brought from outside
6+ Hours = $525
3-5 Hours = $450
3 Hours = $400
1 Hour = $350

Half Meeting Room | 50 People | Food brought from outside
6+ Hours = $375
3-5 Hours = $350
3 Hours = $300
1 Hour = $275

Equipment Prices:
Television/DVD Player: $100+tax
Microphone: $50+tax
Overhead and screen: $50=tax
Flip Chart: $50=tax
Linen Table Cloth: $6+tax per table

Youth Sports Venues

View Details

Youth Sports Venues

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Ocala is a hub for sporting events in central Florida. With facilities for soccer, baseball, football, lacrosse, volleyball and more, teams travel from all around to compete at our various tournaments. Check out some of our wonderful sports complexes below.

Ocala Rotary Sportsplex
5220 Southeast Maricamp Road Ocala, FL
(352) 694-7118

With 11 separate baseball diamonds, there is no shortage of clay to bury your cleats into at the Ocala Rotary Sportslex. The Ocala Rotary Sportsplex has long been known as the go-to location for baseball players and spectators in the Marion County area. In 2012, the Ocala Rotary Sportsplex hosted the Babe Ruth Baseball events and tournaments, a notable little league program. The tournaments are scheduled to return for the summer of 2013 also.

As the host of Marion County’s National Youth Baseball teams, the Sportsplex is brimming with activity. Kids from all over North Central Florida flock to the fields to practice and compete in games and tournaments. With district and state tournaments held in June, guests staying at our hotel during the summer months are welcome to get in on the action as spectators. Or, if you are more of an athlete than a fan, the sports complex is open to the public during the off-season.

Jervey Gantt Park
2390 Southeast 36th Ave, Ocala, FL
1 (352) 624-2410

The Jervey Gantt Park is a wonderful place for a picnic or for a fun-filled day of wet and wild entertainment. Although the park offers hiking, picnic areas, shady and grassy areas, and all of the typical park fare, it also is home to the Jervey Gantt Aquatic Fun Center. The Aquatic Center has two kid-friendly pools. The main larger pool is 5 and ½ feet and is the location for local swim lessons. A nearby kiddie pool is shallow with water slides, cascading waterfalls to play under, a sloped entry, and lots of deck chairs for the grownups.

Shocker Park Softball Complex
2371 Southeast 44th Court, Ocala, FL
(352) 624-0458 ‎

Home of the 2012 Babe Ruth Softball State Championships, Shocker Park is the destination for little league softball in Florida. This year, the annual tournament brought in 65 teams that played a total of 120 games at the Shocker Complex.

Games are held in the summer and late fall. The summer season ends in mid-July and registration for the fall season begins in August. Admission is charged for all games but you can purchase your tickets in advance of the game days. Although the complex is a county-owned facility, it is completely run and supported by parents, volunteers, donors, and event attendees.

Big Sun Soccer Complex
2811 SE 36th Ave, Ocala, FL
352.694.4778

With seven full-sized fields and four smaller practice fields, Big Sun allows Ocala soccer players and enthusiasts a perfect venue to enjoy a good game. There are both youth and adult soccer leagues hosted at the Big Sun Soccer Complex. The Big Sun Soccer Complex occasionally hosts games and clinics by the Ocala Stampede adult soccer team, a member of the United Soccer League.

Wrigley Fields
405 Hwy 316, Citra, Florida
(352) 671-8560

The newly opened Wrigley Fields of Citra, Florida is a state-of-the-art baseball and softball facility that hosts Babe Ruth and Cal Ripken little league events. This beautiful facility was donated to Marion County Parks and Recreation and has been developed into a fantastic sporting venue. Wrigley Fields boasts 3 baseball fields, 1 T-ball field, and 2 softball fields. Additionally, these is a football and soccer field.

Wrigley Fields is extremely simple to reach. It is located along a stretch of highway 301 north of Ocala, Florida. Along with the actual fields, Wrigley Fields has a notable concession stand and a park at its entrance with 3 pavilions (all with BBQ grills) and a large children’s play place. The fields cover an area of 72 acres and are very visible from highway 301.

Partners

View Details

Partners

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

At A Glance
Free Breakfast with Hot Items
Free Wireless Internet Access
Large Heated Outdoor Pool
Next to Silver Springs Attractions
Smoke-Free & Green Certified
Near Downtown Ocala & Ocala National Forest

Ideally situated in what is often called the “Horse Capital of the World,” the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites Silver Springs near Ocala, offers easy access to Central Florida’s best attractions. From equestrian events, to rejuvenating natural springs, guests are sure to find something for the whole family.

Our choice Silver Springs hotel also offers close proximity to the College of Central Florida, Munroe Regional Medical Center and Ocala Regional Medical Center. Business travelers benefit from our close location to E-One Inc., Lockheed Martin Corporation and the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion.

During your visit to the Silver Springs-Ocala area, you can take advantage of our hotel’s free high-speed Internet access, an outdoor, heated pool, a fitness center and 24-hour business center. We offer a complimentary hot breakfast bar, which features our signature cinnamon rolls, as well. As you start planning your next Florida vacation, be sure to check out our great hotel room deals and rates.

For the benefit and convenience of all guests, the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites Silver Springs near Ocala provides free high-speed, wired and wireless Internet access throughout the hotel. Also, the hotel has a heated swimming pool and an attractive fitness facility. Both early and late check-out is available with prior notice.

Thank You! We Appreciate Your Business!

Guest Satisfaction

View Details

Thank You! We Appreciate Your Business!

Guest Satisfaction

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Please let us know how your stay has been at Holiday Inn Express
Hotel & Suites of Ocala-Silver Springs

Going Green

View Details

Going Green

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

Howard Johnson Inn Ocala has undergone many changes in our efforts to Go Green. What does that mean exactly? We have one earth…One chance to get it right.

How has our hotel made advances in the Going Green initiative? Here are some of our best practices for going GREEN:

Conversion to all LED lighting interior/exterior
Implementation of a preventative maintenance program
Purchasing the most energy-efficient equipment available
Team member training on best green practices
Use of Eco-friendly, green chemicals
Planting indigenous landscaping which requires less water
Install water censors on sprinkler systems
Replace aerators on all bath sinks reducing 2.5gal per minute to 1.5gal
Implement a Linen Reuse for our guest rooms
Provide recycle receptacles throughout hotel vending areas and exterior areas
Actively participates and contributes to the Clean the World Organization

Salt Springs at Ocala National Forest

View Details

Salt Springs at Ocala National Forest

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Salt Springs Recreation Area

13851 Hwy 19N Ft. McCoy,FL,32134
Phone: 352-685-2048

A favorite spot in the Ocala National Forest is the Salt Springs Recreation Area with its constant 74° Fahrenheit waters gushing from vertical fissures from deep within the earth. Believing that the springs provide medicinal healing powers, many people flock to this area to swim and be one with nature. The Salt Springs derived its name from the fact that the spring has trace quantities of potassium, magnesium and sodium salts that give the waters a slight salinity. Other activities in this recreation area include boating, snorkeling, camping, nature watching and fishing.

The Salt Spring flows from an underground aquifer, down a short river path and into Lake George, the second largest lake in the state of Florida. Canoe rentals are available at the Slat Springs Recreation Area Marina and you can travel along the path of the spring and observe Florida’s lush tropical foliage. A simple boat ramp is also available at the recreation area.

Ample camping is available at the Slat Springs Recreation with 160 spots available including both RV spots with hook ups and also simple spots for tent camping. Picnic tables, drinking water and restroom facilities are available in these camping areas. You can even make reservations for camping spots online by clicking here, or you can pamper yourself at our hotel with a heated pool, jacuzzi suite, complimentary breakfast, and wireless internet before spending the day in the forest.

Google

Cactus Jack Trail Rides

Cactus Jacks

View Details

Cactus Jack Trail Rides

Cactus Jacks

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides
Ocala, FL
352-266-9326

Guided horse trail rides are one of the most exciting ways to explore the natural beauty of Marion County, Florida. There are winding trails and rolling hills, rich pastures and giant majestic oaks, which give shade during most of the rides. These horse trails are also home to some of Florida’s natural wildlife which includes a variety of birds (hawks, Cardinals, etc), Gopher Turtles, woodpeckers, snakes, owls, coyotes and armadillos.
Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides is considered to be Marion County’s official guided horse trail ride provider in the area. That says a lot when you consider that Marion County is known as the Horse Capital of the World. Open for service seven days a week, Cactus Jack’s expert guides and gentle horses provide safety and comfort for all who are ages 6 and up, whether beginner, intermediate or expert riders.
Our guests and visitors will have three choices of trails that Cactus Jack’s services in the area – the Silver River State Park which is part of the Ocala National Forest, the training site of the US Olympic Equestrian team Florida Horse Park and the Cross Florida Greenway with it’s famous Land Bridge traversing Interstate 75. All three exotic locations are within 15 minutes drive from Howard Johnson Ocala and one is just as beautiful as the other so why choose one when you can enjoy all three. Call now and schedule your thrilling and exciting horse trail ride!

Silver Springs State Park

View Details

Island Grove Winery

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

Island Grove Wine Company
Hawthorne, FL
(352)-481-9463
Just North of Ocala in pine shrub forests, is the stunningly beautiful Island Grove Wine Company. This winery is a little know attraction in Central Florida which is starting to make some news in the wine community. the Island Grove Wine Company of Hawthorne is becoming known for its 100% blueberry wines as well as other fruity wines. These delicious wines are carried at select Sweetbay grocery stores throughout the Florida and more distributors are carrying these wines everyday.
Island Grove’s predecessor, the Island Grove Agricultural Products company, opened in 1994 as a grower of blueberries for Publix grocery stores. When they had leftover berries from harvest, the idea arose of fermenting them to create a unique and delicious blueberry wine. Chase Marden, an expert wine maker,was invited to the company to begin experimenting with the idea. Eventually, he created the beverages which would come to define the Island Grove Wine Company.
Today the Island Grove Wine Company has over 300 acres of blueberry fields which they harvest to make their wine as well as supply grocery stores. Their suite of wine varieties currently features eight flavors: Sorta Sweet Blueberry Wine, Rustic Raspberry, Back Porch Peach, Bold Blackberry, Southern Strawberry, Crisp Green Apple, Kinda Dry Blueberry Wine, and a Holiday Wine which is seasonal.
Although the Island Grove Wine Company is growing and busy, they are eager to show off their facility to visitors. Island Grove offers tours daily (please call in advance). Wine tastings and larger tours can be arranged complimentary with advance notice.
For additional information on the Island Grove Wine Company, Please Click Here. The winery is located relatively nearby our hotel, the Sleep Inn & Suites of Ocala and Belleview. To reach the winery, you follow I-75 North to the exit for HWY 301. Follow 301 North to the town of Hawthorne and the Orange Citrus Stand. Directions from the highway to the winery can be acquired from the staff of their roadside stand located just adjacent to the Orange Citrus stand.

Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

This museum is home to over 75 racing cars including hot-rods, muscle cars and more, as well as racing memorabilia and history.

View Details

Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

This museum is home to over 75 racing cars including hot-rods, muscle cars and more, as well as racing memorabilia and history.

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

This museum is home to over 75 racing cars including hot-rods, muscle cars and more, as well as racing memorabilia and history.

The name Don Garlits is well known by hot-rod fanatics all over the world, and for good reason. With 17 World Championship Titles, Don has made his mark on the drag racing industry. The racing legend has accomplished many feats during his time as the “King of the Dragsters” including winning the National Hot Rod Association, N.H.R.A., Nationals eight times, receiving the title of the number one drag racer in the last 50 years by the N.H.R.A. and branding his own line of record-breaking racecars, the Swamp Rats.

Named to celebrate Don Garlits southern roots, his collection of 34 Swamp Rats has been breaking records since he manufactured the very first one. The racecars have broken an astonishing amount of previously recorded top speeds, being the first automobiles in the N.H.R.A. to go over 170, 180, 200, 240, 250, 260 and 270 mph throughout the years. One of his finest creations, Swamp Rat XXX has been so celebrated in the racing community it is on display at the Smithsonian Museum of American History.

While guests to cannot view this spectacular piece of machinery, many of the other Swamp Rats are on display as well as other displays of automobile history and innovation. Because of his knowledge and dedication, Don Garlits is the authority on automobiles in the area, and his museum is a must-see for those staying in The Ocala area! 4

Click Here for Website

Partners

View Details

Partners

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

At A Glance
Free Breakfast with Hot Items
Free Wireless Internet Access
Large Heated Outdoor Pool with Jacuzzi
Few Minutes from Downtown Ocala
Green Certified
Easy Access from I-75, Exit 354

The Best Value Hotel in Ocala, Florida

Offering happiness and value, the Howard Johnson Inn Ocala FL hotel is situated with easy access from I-75 and 4 Miles from Downtown Ocala, Horse Capital of the World. Kick off your day with a free breakfast including Belgian waffles and free WiFi.

With 125 rooms located on 10 acres of land, this Ocala, Florida hotel is ideal for families traveling with RV rentals, and includes ample RV and boat parking on-site. This green-certified Ocala, Florida hotel is situated within minutes from the Post Time Horse Farm, home of the annual Horse Shows in the Sun – HITS – Ocala event each winter. As the recipient of Howard Johnsons Best Practices of the Year Award for 2010, the Howard Johnson Inn Ocala FL is dedicated to providing travelers the best combination of cheerful hospitality and convenience with a great value. Find all that this Ocala hotel has to offer within minutes of top attractions including Silver Springs Natural Theme Park, Wild Waters Water Park, Florida State Fire College, Ocala Rotary Sportsplex, Big Sun Youth Soccer League, Shocker Park Softball Complex and Ocala Breeders Sales.

Fun and convenience are a standard at the Howard Johnson Inn Ocala FL with the areas largest outdoor heated pool, poolside cabanas and a relaxing Jacuzzi. In and around this Ocala, Florida hotel you will enjoy a complimentary Rise and Dine Breakfast along with on-site miniature golf, meeting and banquet facilities, Howard Johnsons Restaurant on-site (Buy 1 Dinner and get the 2nd dinner of equal or lesser value FREE) and nearby dining and convenience at Roma Italian Restaurant and Publix Super Market.

No matter what kind of traveler you are, the Howard Johnson Inn Ocala, Florida hotel provides the ideal location and incredible value you have been searching for. Go Happy. Go HoJo Ocala, Florida.

King Room

King Size Bed Hotel Rooms in Silver Springs Florida at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites

View Details

King Room

King Size Bed Hotel Rooms in Silver Springs Florida at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Enjoy a King Size Bed

Stay in comfort with up to four adults in our King Room. This room type offers one King size Perfect Sleeper Serta mattress that makes it a perfect choice for couples.

Standard amenities you’ll enjoy in our King Size Bed Hotel Room include a 32″ flat screen television with premium movie channels, a mini-refrigerator and microwave for in-room dining, an iron and ironing board, a coffee maker, and a desk with chair. For your business and leisure needs, a complimentary high-speed wireless Internet connection is available.

Stay at our award-winning Silver Springs Florida Hotel with a King Size Bed and experience comfortable, luxurious accommodations and excellent service in the heart of Central Florida. This conveniently located Holiday Inn Express & Suites of Ocala-Silver Springs is home to a fantastic selection of desirable lodging options including a free high-speed internet access, free hot breakfast, 24-hour business center, large outdoor heated pool and on-site fitness center.

Take a closer look at the many amenities that await you inside our fine Ocala-Silver Springs hotel. View our gallery of photos, watch our video or take a virtual tour.

Award Winning Hotel: 2016 Torch Bearer Award
Complimentary High Speed Internet
Complimentary Hot Breakfast Buffet
Microwave & fridge
Multiple HBO Movie Channels
State-of-the-art shower head
Curved shower rod
100% Non-smoking
Handicap accessible
PURE Allergy-Free Rooms Available
Pet-friendly rooms
Specially formulated toiletries

View Larger Map

Rainbow Springs

Rainbow Springs is located near our Howard Johnson.

View Details

Rainbow Springs

Rainbow Springs is located near our Howard Johnson.

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

Florida’s beautiful Rainbow Springs is the fourth largest spring in the state. There are many things you can do at the spring such as: snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. This property also includes tables, pavilions, and grills great for friends, and family gatherings. Pavilion reservations are available for large gatherings or parties.

The Campground Entrance with a full-facility campground is about nine miles from the day use area. If you are interested in tubing, the launch area is on SW 180th Avenue Road.

Restrictions include the following: swimming is only allowed in designated areas, no scuba gear, motors on watercraft, etc. Please call ahead to inquire about restrictions.

For more Information Click Here.

The VIllages

View Details

The VIllages

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

There are many retirement communities in Florida, but only one is so exceptional that it has been named “Florida’s Friendliest Hometown”. When the founder of The Villages, Harold S. Schwartz, came up with the idea for The Villages over 50 years ago, he didn’t want to create just another average retirement center. By committing to the happiness and comfort of each resident, Schwartz created something truly special.
While The Villages offers many fabulous residential areas and homes, you do not have to be a resident to enjoy all of the activities and attractions the retirement community has to offer. With two town squares filled with a variety of shops and restaurants, there is plenty to take in. Both town squares, as well as other centers in The Villages community, host nightly entertainment, so there is never a shortage of activities to choose from: plays, musicals, musicians, vintage car shows, arts and crafts and more.
The Villages also hosts many special events including golf tournaments, book signings, polo games, fashion shows, health fairs and parades and festivals. There is literally never a dull moment in this retirement community. One of the appealing activities offered at the retirement community is golfing. With almost 40 executive level and country club style courses, everyone from beginners to professionals can have their turn on the green.
With so much to offer, it is no wonder that The Villages is Florida’s premiere retirement community and attracts guests from all over the world. For a one-stop day full of entertainment and dining, there is nowhere that we, at the Sleep Inn and Suites Ocala-Belleview, recommend more.

Our Partners

View Details

Our Partners

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Ocoos
HDG Hotel Group

Island Grove Wine Company

Island Grove Winery

View Details

Island Grove Wine Company

Island Grove Winery

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Island Grove Wine Company

Hawthorne, FL

(352)-481-9463

Nestled in the forests of Central Florida, just a short drive North of Ocala, is the Island Grove Wine Company. This well-kept secret is starting to make some big waves in the wine community. Island Grove is becoming famous for its 100% blueberry wines as well as other specialty fruit wines. These desirable wines are currently carried at Sweetbay grocery stores throughout the state and more distributors are carrying them everyday.

The Island Grove Agricultural Products company began in 1994 as a producer of blueberries for grocery stores. When they had a surplus of berries, the idea formed to start fermenting them into a unique and delicious wine. An expert wine maker, Chase Marden, was brought to the facility to begin the great experiment which would eventually become the Island Grove Wine Company.

Today the Island Grove Wine Company uses berries from over 300 acres of blueberry fields to make their wine. Their broad selection currently features 8 varieties with the promise of more to come. These include: Sorta Sweet Blueberry Wine, Kinda Dry Blueberry Wine, Rustic Raspberry, Back Porch Peach, Bold Blackberry, Southern Strawberry, Crisp Green Apple, and a Holiday Wine which is seasonal.

Although this company is growing and busy, they are always happy to have visitors. Island Grove offers winery tours every day (provided you call in advance). Wine tastings and field tours are also provided complimentary to large groups which arrange trips in advance.

For more information on Island Grove Wine Company, Please Click Here.

Hotel Services

Amenities and Services available at Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Details

Hotel Services

Pet Policy

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

Why yes...we are pet-friendly!

Here at our award-winning

Sleep Inn & Suites Ocala

we welcome your furry family members.

Pets under 25lbs: $25 per pet, per night
Only 1 pet per room allowed
Pets over 25lbs: Call Hotel Directly 352-347-8383

Service Animals Welcome: No Charge

Island Grove Wine Company

Island Grove

View Details

Island Grove Wine Company

Island Grove

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

Island Grove Wine Company
Hawthorne, FL
(352)-481-9463

Nestled in the forests of Central Florida, just a short drive North of Ocala, is the Island Grove Wine Company. This well-kept secret is starting to make some big waves in the wine community. Island Grove is becoming famous for its 100% blueberry wines as well as other specialty fruit wines. These desirable wines are currently carried at Sweetbay grocery stores throughout the state and more distributors are carrying them everyday.
The Island Grove Agricultural Products company began in 1994 as a producer of blueberries for grocery stores. When they had a surplus of berries, the idea formed to start fermenting them into a unique and delicious wine. An expert wine maker, Chase Marden, was brought to the facility to begin the great experiment which would eventually become theIsland Grove Wine Company.
Today the Island Grove Wine Company uses berries from over 300 acres of blueberry fields to make their wine. Their broad selection currently features 8 varieties with the promise of more to come. These include: Sorta Sweet Blueberry Wine, Kinda Dry Blueberry Wine, Rustic Raspberry, Back Porch Peach, Bold Blackberry, Southern Strawberry, Crisp Green Apple, and a Holiday Wine which is seasonal.
Although this company is growing and busy, they are always happy to have visitors. Island Grove offers winery tours every day (provided you call in advance). Wine tastings and field tours are also provided complimentary to large groups which arrange trips in advance.
For more information on Island Grove Wine Company, Please Click Here. If you would like to try these amazing blueberry wines, bottles and glasses of the blueberry flavors are available for purchase in our Howard Johnson lobby gift shop and at our bar. Take home a true Florida souvenir.

World Class Golf Courses

View Details

World Class Golf Courses

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Marion County has a wealth of golf clubs. With crisp manicured greens, beautiful vistas, and a variety of challenging course layouts, it is now wonder that golfers from all over the country flock to central Florida for premier golfing. To find out about golf clubs in the vicinity of our hotel, please check out the course descriptions below.

Ocala Municipal Golf Course
3130 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL (352) 401-6917

Conveniently located on Silver Springs Boulevard in Ocala, Florida, the Ocala Municipal Golf Course offers a paradise of Bermuda grass fairways, Emerald Dwarf Bermuda grass greens, 5 sets of tees, and 34 sand bunkers. A practice facility is available and includes a driving range, putting green, short game area, and bunkers. Rental clubs and golf carts are available upon request. Traditional golf attire is required.

Candler Hills Golf Course
8137 SW 90th Terrace Road, Ocala, FL (352) 861-9712

The beautiful Candler Hills Golf Course, designed by Gordon Lewis, is located within On Top of the World Communities, one of Florida’s premier retirement communities. Among its other significant attributes, Candler Hills is a Par-72 Championship Golf Course. Practice areas are available for both shot-making long and short options. Candler Hills is a semi-private course offering five tees ranging from 4,877 to 7,333 yards and contains the longest par 5 in Florida.

Country Club at Silver Springs Shores
633 Silver Rd, Ocala, FL * (352) 687-2828

This semi-private, par-72 course offers a challenging game for any golfer. The combination of several different landscapes means that you will play through both parkland and typical Florida settings. This Desmond Muirhead designed course has a rating of 73.5 and a slope rating of 133 on grass. Additionally, the course offers a large clubhouse with banquet facilities perfect for weddings or other such events. A golf shop is also available on-site.

Ocala National Golf Club
4782 Northwest 80th Avenue, Ocala, FL * (352) 629-7981

This private Championship 18-hole course was designed by Rees Jones and is located in the heart of horse country. It has many event facilities including a ballroom that seats 250 people, tennis courts, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a fitness center, and a pro golf shop. Ocala National is known for hosting many notable golf events such as the U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur Championships.

Baseline Golf Course and Lighted Driving Range
9000 Southeast 58th Avenue, Ocala, FL * (352) 245-4414

The stunning scenery of Ocala’s Baseline Golf Course will inspire your golf game. Perfectly manicured greens are juxtaposed with stylish tropical landscaping and a view that goes on forever. Golf cart trails are well maintained and allow easy access throughout the course. This public course does not do tee times, you just walk on. Prices are Baseline are exceptionally reasonable and as are concessions at the course snack bar. A lighted driving range allows play until 9pm.

Huntington Golf Club
799 Marion Oaks Manor, Ocala, FL * (352) 347-3333

This semi-private golf club boasts a Par-72 of Bermuda grass greens, and Bermuda grass fairways and tees. Landscaping includes tree-lined fairways and various elevation changes. An on-site golf shop and restaurant offer golfers the opportunity to purchase needed equipment or snacks throughout the day.

Lake Diamond Golf & Country Club

16 Golf View Drive, Ocala, FL * (352) 680-0269

Lake Diamond Golf & Country Club offers a secluded woodland setting in Central Florida. This semi-private golf club offers tight fairways that encircle beautiful Lake Diamond, a steep slope, and a #9 hole that was featured as one of the best in Marion County. Additionally, Lake Diamond Golf & Country Club offers a practice range, a pro golf shop, and a snack shop.

Marion Oaks Golf & Country Club
430 Marion Oaks Golf Way, Ocala, FL * (352) 347-1271

Marion Oaks offers 18 holes of manicured Bermuda grass greens, tree-lined fairways, and tricky sand bunkers. This championship golf course is a Par-72 and provides ample elevation changes with rolling topography. Marion Oaks has an on-site practice facility as well as a pro shop and clubhouse with event hosting available.

Royal Oaks Country Club
11220 SW 69th Circle, Ocala, FL * 352.861.1818

This challenging course will offer you 6,703 yards of manicured greens, changing slope angles, hazards, interesting approaches, and towering old Blue Jack Oaks and Slash Pines lining the fairways. The front nine and back nine of this stunningly beautiful Par-72 course is very different. The front nine are more secluded and feature 35-foot elevation changes whereas the back nine offers a meadow landscape. Royal Oaks also boasts a notable clubhouse restaurant which offers light meals during the day and fine dining in the evenings. Live music is provided in the clubhouse on weekends.

Ocala Palms Golf & Country Club
5174 NW 26th St, Ocala, FL * (352) 732-4653

The Ocala Palms Golf Course is nestled into a beautiful country club and retirement community. This Par-72 course features 18 holes of green fairways, ponds, sparkling waterfalls, white sand bunkers, old growth oak trees, and interesting topography that offers a challenge to skilled and amateur golfers alike. Ocala Palms is a semi-private course that offers four sets of tees and is open seven days a week. A pro shop is available on-site.

Pine Oaks of Ocala
2201 Northwest 21st Street, Ocala, FL * (352) 401-6940

This municipal Par-72 golf course offers amazing greens, landscaping, and wildlife to delight you during your game. Flowering trees in bloom provide a stunning background to this 18-hole course. A practice facility with full driving range and 4 acres of short-game area will help you hone your skills. Unlike most Ocala courses, Pine Oaks offers Disc Golf, a fast growing sport similar in principle to golf. Additionally Pine Oaks offers a snack bar and a fully stocked golf pro shop.

The Country Club of Ocala
6823 Southeast 12th Circle Ocala, FL * (352) 237-6644

This Par-72, 18-hole course was designed by Steve Nugent, and showcases the best golfing that Ocala has to offer. The Country Club of Ocala has hosted USGA, State Golf Association, and regional PGA events amongst others. A full tournament schedule is posted along with regular charitable events. The Country Club of Ocala also hosts a state-of-the-art practice facility which includes three putting greens, instructional tee, a short game practice area, a private practice tee, and a full driving range with complimentary range balls. A pro golf store and restaurant are available on-site.

Chocolate & Fruit Products

Chocolate Truffles Ocala

View Details

Chocolate & Fruit Products

Chocolate Truffles Ocala

Provided by: Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

View Service

Details:

Chocolate & Fruit Products
We have a mixture of different fruit and chocolate products. Listed below are some of the products we offer.
Chocolate Products:
72% Bark
Almond Toffee
Bark Variety
Caramel Corn
Caramel Marshmallow
Caramel Pretzel
Cashew & Pecan Patties
Chocolate Chips
Chocolate Caramel Pecan Crispie
Chocolate Caramel Pecan Marshmallow
Chocolate Caramel Pecan Pretzel
Crossies
Dark Mint Bark
Macaroons
Milk Dark Double Marshmallow
Milk White Dark Pretzels
Oreo
Pecan Toffee
Peanut Butter Cups
Pretzels
Rice Crispies
Single Marshmallow
S'mores
Torch Cones
Triple Marshmallow
Twinkies
White Double Marshmallow
White Mint Bark
Fruit Products:
Chocolate Berry Cups
Chocolate Strawberries
Fruit Cups
Chocolate Caramel Apples
Christmas Apples
Dried Fruit
Pineapple

40 Fathom Grotto

View Details

40 Fathom Grotto

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

The 40 Fathom Grotto is a premier Commercial Diving Academy located in Ocala, Florida. This stunningly beautiful, natural sinkhole is the only place in the eastern United States where you can dive over 200 feet below the water’s surface while still remaining in open water. The significant depth and breadth of this feature has made it world famous as one of the best dive training centers on the planet.
The underground river that feeds the grotto provides a constant supply of clean, clear water, perfect for diving. Water in the grotto is about 72 degrees Fahrenheit at the surface and 68 degrees at depth. The sheltered nature of the grotto means that waters are largely unaffected by wind, waves, tides, or currents and therefore allow for perfect diving conditions year-round. Furthermore, man made structures, such as docks and walkways, enhance the grotto and allow for comfortable access into the sinkhole.
Special bubbler vents aerate the water at the dive site to clear away duckweed and other surface debris. Once submerged, descend through this freshwater paradise to explore Pleistocene-era marine fossils over 30 million years old, present in the limestone walls of the grotto. Once you reach the bottom of the sinkhole, you will encounter fun artifacts like antique cars, an abandoned airplane, and sunken boat wrecks.
The 40 Fathom Grotto works with both experienced, certified divers and guides but also offers dive training programs for new divers. The training can be completed in as little as two days at the grotto provided you complete online training in advance of your visit to the grotto.
40 Fathom Grotto provides a full-service experience and has parking, changing and restroom facilities on-site. Additionally, a dive store provides state-of-the-art dive equipment for purchase. Tank refills are available and include Air, Nitrox, Oxygen, Helium, Trimix, and custom blends.
9487 NW 115th Ave
Ocala, FL 34482
(352) 368-7974

Hotel Suites

Suites Sleep Inn

View Details

Hotel Suites

Suites Sleep Inn

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

Sleep Inn Ocala-Belleview hotel suites provide a level of relaxation which far surpasses our standard guest rooms. With both single king suites and two queen bed suites, you can enjoy the finer things in life even if you are traveling with family or on your own. Our suites are ideal for wedding parties and anniversaries. Suites come with a sitting area featuring a fold out sofa, a coffee table, and a table with chairs.

Step inside any one of our newly redesigned Ocala hotel rooms to experience comfortable, relaxing accommodations and superior service in the heart of Central Florida. Conveniently located along Interstate 75, exit 341, our Sleep Inn & Suites of Ocala-Belleview is home to a fantastic selection of great lodging options including a heated outdoor pool, a 24/7 fitness center, a 24/7 business center, a suite of useful in-room amenities, and a complimentary deluxe breakfast served fresh everyday. All of the rooms in our Ocala hotel are smoke and allergy-free and come equipped with de-humidifiers to combat the hot and heavy Florida summers.

Our Ocala hotel guest rooms are also outfitted with large 32 inch flat screen TVs with premium movie channels, mini-refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, work spaces, iron and ironing board, free local calls, and complimentary high speed wireless internet. Pet rooms are available. There is a $25 pet fee up to 50 pounds and a maximum of 2 pets are allowed per room

Take a closer look at the many amenities that await you inside our comfortable Ocala hotel.
Complimentary high speed Internet
Microwave & fridge
Flat Screen TV
One cup coffee maker
Serta Pefect Sleeper mattresses
Free local calls
Free hot breakfast buffet
100% Non-smoking
Power Station
Handicap accessible
Curved shower rod
Air dehumidifiers
Premium Movie Channels (Showtime)
Pet-friendly rooms
Iron & ironing board
Hairdryer
Free newspaper
Large work desk
Safe

PURE Allergy-Free Rooms

PURE Allergy-Free Rooms for the cleanest hotel room experience in Silver Springs-Ocala Florida

View Details

PURE Allergy-Free Rooms

PURE Allergy-Free Rooms for the cleanest hotel room experience in Silver Springs-Ocala Florida

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Pure Allergy-Free Rooms

The PURE difference is the assurance that you’re in a place as comfortable as home with the guarantee that every surface you touch is as safe as it possibly can be. If you are one of the millions of Americans affected by allergies, this offers the perfect room option for your stay.

As you open the door to one of our allergy-friendly rooms you will immediately notice the crisp and clean air surrounding you. We sanitize the air handling units and install air purifiers that continuously filter the air as well as kills viruses and bacteria. All of the surfaces in these remarkable guestrooms, including special mattress and pillow covers, are treated to reduce allergens, resist molds, spores, and dust mites. We care about your health and whether you are traveling for business or pleasure we feel confident that our PURE experience will fulfill your every need for comfort and functionality.

Comforting features of our new PURE rooms include:

Sanitized heater and air conditioner, cleaned with PURE Tea Tree Oil to inhibit microbial growth
Cleansed and sanitized soft surfaces, to eliminate contaminants that trigger allergies
“PureShield™ application on all surfaces, to minimize the growth of bacteria
In room air purification system, to render air quality four times cleaner than threshold for asthma patients
Hypo-allergenic pillow cases and mattress covers, to eliminate dust and dander associated with bedding.

As with all of our other guest rooms, you will enjoy the following standard features as well:

Award Winning Hotel: 2016 Torch Bearer Award
Complimentary High Speed Internet
Complimentary Hot Breakfast Buffet
Microwave & fridge
Multiple HBO Movie Channels
State-of-the-art shower head
Curved shower rod
100% Non-smoking
Handicap accessible
PURE Allergy-Free Rooms Available
Pet-friendly rooms
Specially formulated toiletries

Two Queen Beds

Two Queen Beds Ocala Hotel Guest Rooms

View Details

Two Queen Beds

Two Queen Beds Ocala Hotel Guest Rooms

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

Relax in Comfort at our Ocala Hotel

This guest room sleeps up to five adults. It offers two Queen-size deluxe Serta Perfect Sleeper Mattresses that make it a perfect choice for families, youth sports teams, or church groups.

Standard features you’ll enjoy in our Two Queen Beds guest room include a 40″ flat screen cable television with premium movie channels, a mini-refrigerator and microwave, an iron and ironing board, a coffee maker, and many more. For your business and leisure needs, a complimentary high-speed wireless and wired Internet connection are available.

Take a closer look at the many amenities that await you inside our comfortable Ocala hotel. View our gallery of photos or take a virtual tour.

Guest Room Features:
Complimentary High Speed Internet
Microwave & Fridge in all rooms
Complimentary Continental Breakfast
Permanent non-smoking rooms
In-room safes
Handicap accessible
40″ Flat Screen TVs with free HBO
Large work table
Pet-friendly rooms

View Larger Map

Suites

King & Queen Suites at Silver Springs FL Hotel - Holiday Inn Express

View Details

Suites

King & Queen Suites at Silver Springs FL Hotel - Holiday Inn Express

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Enjoy a Suite

Our suites provide a level of relaxation which far surpasses our regular guest rooms. With both single king jacuzzi suites and two queen bed suites, you can enjoy the finer things in life even if you are traveling with family or on your own.Our suites are ideal for wedding parties and anniversaries. We also have non-jacuzzi suites. All suites come with partial kitchenettes (sink, microwave, mini-fridge, cabinets with disposable dish set) and larger floor area.

Standard amenities you’ll enjoy include a 32″ flat screen television with premium movie channels, an iron and ironing board, a coffee maker, and a desk with chair. For your business and leisure needs, a complimentary high-speed wireless Internet connection is available.

Stay at our award-winning Silver Springs, Florida Hotel and experience comfortable, luxurious accommodations and excellent service in the heart of Central Florida. This conveniently located Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hotel in Silver Springs-Ocala, is home to a fantastic selection of desirable lodging options plus free high-speed internet access, free hot breakfast, 24-hour business center, large outdoor heated pool and on-site fitness center.

Take a closer look at the many amenities that await you inside our fine Silver Springs Hotel. View our gallery of photos, watch our video or take a virtual tour.

Award Winning Hotel: 2016 Torch Bearer Award
Complimentary High Speed Internet
Complimentary Hot Breakfast Buffet
Microwave & fridge
Multiple HBO Movie Channels
State-of-the-art shower head
Curved shower rod
100% Non-smoking
Handicap accessible
PURE Allergy-Free Rooms Available
Pet-friendly rooms
Specially formulated toiletries

Silver River State Park

View Details

Silver River State Park

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Our Holiday Inn Express Ocala-Silver Springs is the closest hotel to the Silver River State Park, a 4,600 acre wonderland for the all nature lovers out there. The park next to our hotel has more than 10 distinct natural habitats, dozens of sparkling, mineral-rich springs and miles of well-maintained trails. Visitors can canoe down the crystal clear river, hike or bike along one of the scenic trails, or just sit and watch for the wide variety of native birds and wildlife that make the Silver River State Park their home. One of the most fascinating features for most visitors are the wild monkeys that live along the Silver River and can sometimes be spotted in the park.

The Silver River picnic area features three large pavilions with BBQ grills that may be rented for group outings. A beautiful venue for family reunions, birthday parties, or even weddings, the picnic area provides shelter on sunny days, plenty of seating, and a playground for the youngsters.
For overnight stays, the park has a full facility campground and 10 luxury cabins. There is also a primitive campground for use by organized groups (scouts, church groups, etc.), however, with our hotel just down the road from the Silver River State Park, there is no need to rough it if you don’t need to.

The Silver River State Park is home to a pioneer cracker village and the Silver River Museum and Environmental Education Center. The center is operated by the Marion County School District in cooperation with the park and is open to the public on weekends and holidays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00. p.m. Admission to the Museum is $2.00 per person. Children under 6 are free. For more information please visit Silver River Museum website by clicking here.

The main entrance to Silver River State Park is located east of Ocala, one mile south of our Holiday Inn Express and Suites of Silver Springs, on State Road 35.

Black Tine Outfitters

The Black Tine Outfitters is a great place to hunt.

View Details

Black Tine Outfitters

Our Story

Provided by: Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

View Service

Details:

Our Story
Our shop is located in Downtown Ocala, Florida where we see visitors from many corners of the country. Our experience with our audience helps us craft some of the finest chocolates as well as variety. Come visit us and have a taste of some of the best handmade chocolate in the area.

Truffles

Chocolate Truffles Ocala

View Details

Truffles

Chocolate Truffles Ocala

Provided by: Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

View Service

Details:

Chocolate Truffle
Our Chocolate Truffles are made in-house and by hand.
We offer a large variety of Truffles to choose from:
72% Dark Chocolate
Dark Chocolate
Solid Chocolate
Milk Chocolate
White Chocolate
Dark Raspberry
Milk Raspberry
White Raspberry
Dark Black Forest
Milk Black Forest
Milk Coconut Rum
Milk Dark Peanut Butter
Dark Mocha
Milk Mocha
Milk Rum
Almond Pistachio
Hazelnut
Marzipan

I-75 Super Flea Market

View Details

I-75 Super Flea Market

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

I-75 Super Flea Market
4121 Northwest 44th Avenue Ocala, FL
(352) 351-9220
The I-75 Super Flea Market offers some of the most enticing shopping in Marion County. With over 13,000 shoppers each weekend, the flea market is outgrowing its current facility and is expanding to include room for over 1,000 new covered vendor spaces as well as additional parking. You can find great bargains at this flea market including clothing, produce, antiques, furniture, electronics and so much more. Additionally, the flea market has an air conditioned restaurant that serves up some great snacks to keep you full while perusing all the great deals. The I-75 Super Flea Market is open from 9am-2pm on Fridays and from 9am-4pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

The Market of Marion
12888 SE US Highway 441 Belleview, FL
(352) 245-6766
With over 1,000 booths, the Market of Marion offers a shopper’s paradise. They have all of the typical Flea Market fare (produce, antiques, souvenirs, collectibles, electronics, clothing, and food) as well as a variety of fun events throughout the year including a Chili Cook-off, a Home & Garden Show, vehicle swap meets, bikers’ events, and various festivals. The Market of Marion is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with hours on Thursday during the winter months.

Waldo Flea Market
17805 NE US Highway 301, Waldo, FL 32694
(352) 468-3111
With over 50 acres of bargains, and 40,000 visitors each weekend, the Waldo Flea Market, north of Ocala, provides a fun and family-friendly place to shop. A 20,000 square foot antique mall offers a comfortable atmosphere to browse through collectables and treasures. A selection of produce stands offer up a cornucopia of fresh fruits and vegetables. This market is open every Saturday and Sunday, rain or shine. Booth pricing is very reasonable and if you are a vendor, you have many options for choice of space, power, and parking.

Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

A nearby hotel to Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

View Details

Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

A nearby hotel to Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

Provided by: Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

View Service

Details:

Go Happy and Go Ho-Jo at the Howard Johnson Ocala hotel in the heart of beautiful Marion County, Florida – Horse Capital of the World. Offering unbeatable value for the money, our Ocala hotel is known for exceptional service and hosts of complimentary amenities all at very affordable rates. Through continuous renovations and improvements, the Howard Johnson Ocala hotel is always getting better to accommodate vacationers and business travelers alike.Ideally located along I-75 on Exit 354, our interstate hotel in Ocala provides easy access and convenient location for Florida visitors and travelers. Famous horse farms and ranches are just few minutes away as well as Florida's original theme park, the Silver Springs Attractions.

Whether you are traveling for business in the area, just passing through Central Florida or on a vacation in the horse country – Ocala, you will find the savings, comfort and relaxation you need by staying at the Howard Johnson Inn Ocala.

Visit Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

Delicacies

Ice Cream in Ocala

View Details

Delicacies

Ice Cream in Ocala

Provided by: Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

View Service

Details:

Delicacies
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.

Our Location

View Details

Our Location

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

Howard Johnson Hotel Ocala Location

Situated in the heart of Marion County, the prime location for all things equestrian, the Howard Johnson Inn Ocala is centered among some of North Central Florida’s premiere businesses and attractions. Easily accessed from Interstate 75, and just four short miles from Downtown Ocala, the Howard Johnson Ocala is easy to navigate to and from while guests explore what Marion County has to offer.

For those interested in exploring the Horse Capital of the World, the Post Time Farm, which hosts the Horses in the Sun Winter Circuit every February is under two-miles from the Ocala hotel, and Ocala Breeder Sales is just minutes away. But horses are not all Ocala has to offer. The Super Flea Market, which boasts Florida’s best Go-Kart track, the Ocala Gran Prix, is literally just around the corner, and Silver Springs Theme Park, Ocala’s original attraction is minutes away.

No matter what you are interested in, whether it is cars, horses, nature, shopping or dining, the Howard Johnson Inn Ocala puts it all at your fingertips.

Nearby Attractions
Ocala Grand Prix
3 Miles
College of Central Florida
4 Miles
Ocala Breeder Sales
4 Miles
Florida State Fire College
5 Miles
Lowell Correctional Institution
5 Miles
Ocala Speedway
5 Miles
Ocala Thunder Quad Flat Tracks
5 Miles
Canyons Zip Line
5 Miles
Southeastern Livestock Pavilion
5 Miles
Silver Springs / Wild Waters
8 Miles
Ocala Rotary Sportsplex
10 Miles
Don Garlits Drag Racing Museum
12 Miles
Ocala National Forest
15 Miles
Post Time Farm/HITS Horse Show
15 Miles
Rainbow Springs State Park
15 Miles
Island Grove Vineyard
20 Miles

Awesome! Please Share Your Experience

Leave Us An Online Review

View Details

Awesome! Please Share Your Experience

Leave Us An Online Review

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

Click any of the Icons below to leave us a review on our different social media outlets! Thank you again for staying with us.
Google Plus
TripAdvisor
Yelp
Facebook

King Bed

King Bed Room, Howard Johnson Ocala

View Details

King Bed

Juniper Springs at Ocala National Forest

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Juniper Springs State Park offers one of the best canoeing and kayaking destinations in the Ocala National Forest. With sparkling turquoise springs and clement water temperatures for swimming all year round, Juniper Springs is a very popular destination for Floridians and out-of-state visitors alike.
Juniper Springs is an oasis of beautiful and lush tropical vegetation in the middle of a dry and semi-barren Big Scrub. The natural springs bubbling up from a subterranean river, though fissures in the local limestone, give the water a heavy mineral content and a spa-like quality. This natural resource was developed in the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corp to be featured as a local eco-gem.
Juniper Springs offers a variety of services including a picnic area, hiking trails, restrooms, drinking water, ample parking and a large campground for both tent and RV camping. A concession stand has snacks as well as canoe and kayak rentals. You may choose to bring your own kayak or canoe; however, a $6 launch fee will still be assessed.
There are two hiking trails within the Juniper Springs State Park that provide information on the history, flora and fauna of the park; the Juniper Run Trail and the Hammock Run Trail. Other trails connected to the Juniper Springs Park include the state-wide Florida Trail, the Farles Prairie Trail, and the Juniper Prairie Wilderness Trail.

Map of the Juniper Springs Recreation Area

Canyons Zip Line and Canopy Tours

Canyons Zip Lining

View Details

Canyons Zip Line and Canopy Tours

Pet Policy

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

Why yes...we are pet-friendly!

Here at our award-winning

Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

we welcome your furry family members.

Small Pets under 15lbs: $30 per pet, per night
Medium Size Pets 16-25lbs : $30 per pet, per night
Large Pets 26-50lbs: $30 per pet, per night

Only 2 pets per room please
Pets over 50lbs: Call Hotel Directly 352-629-7021

Service Animals Welcome: No Charge

Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides

Cactus Jack's Trail Rides

View Details

Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides

Cactus Jack's Trail Rides

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

There are several companies offering trail rides in the Marion County area, but none of them can compare to Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides. The love they have for both their trade, and their horses, shines through with every guided ride. With trails on the Cross Florida Greenway, through the Florida Horse Park and now at the Silver River State Park, Cactus Jack’s is the number one trail ride service in the area.

With experienced guides, and well-trained horses, Cactus Jack’s provides safety and comfort for all riders, no matter how experienced. Whether you are a beginner, or an advanced rider, as long as you are over the age of six, Cactus Jack’s has the perfect horse and guide for you.
The trail rides wind through the pine forests that encompass the Florida Greenway and the rolling hills, pastures and giant shade oaks that make up the Florida Horse Park. Guests can spend up to two and a half hours discovering the natural beauty of the Central Florida landscape and wildlife. Some of the wildlife seen on previous trail rides includes a variety of birds including hawks and Cardinals, Gopher Turtles, woodpeckers, snakes, owls, coyotes and armadillos.
Whether you are an avid equestrian or it is your first time on, or not even near a horse, Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides can provide you with a safe, leisurely and enjoyable afternoon of horseback riding in beautiful Marion County, Florida. Singles, couples and groups are all welcome, but be sure to make a reservation because spots fill up quickly.
Guests staying at Sleep Inn & Suites Ocala will get huge discounts!
phone: 352-266-9326
fax: 352-347-7896
e-mail: deb@cactusjackstrailrides.com
www.cactusjackstrailrides.com

Cross Florida Greenway

View Details

Cross Florida Greenway

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

In the 1930s, federal officials decided that a canal should be built across the state of Florida to allow a quicker route for ships traveling between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. When the plan for the Cross Florida Barge Canal was halted due to environmental concerns, the land stood vacant until the 1990s when it was set into conservation by President George Bush. Named the Marjorie Harris Carr Florida Greenway in honor of one of the key environmentalists who protested against the canal, the Greenway has become one of Central Florida’s key natural attractions.

The Greenway is home to a number of outdoor activities including equestrian and off-road biking trails. It is an area of extreme environmental diversity that reaches from the Gulf of Mexico to the St. Johns River on over 110 miles of land. With rivers winding throughout both ends of the Greenway, swamplands and a land bridge (pictured above) located near our Ocala hotel that crosses over Interstate 75, the Cross Florida Greenway is the perfect destination for all outdoor enthusiasts.

The Cross Florida Greenway Land Bridge
Anybody driving along I-75 in Ocala may not easily realize that they are driving under a very unique landmark in Florida. Formally opened in June 2000, the Cross Florida Greenway Land Bridge is considered to be the first modern land bridge in the United States of America. Glancing from beneath, it will certainly look like any other bridges traversing the busy highway. Things will only become apparent and reveal themselves once you step into the marvelous structure itself or view it from above as seen from the aerial photos taken by Mr. Nearous Sizemore or Ocala, Florida.
Technically speaking, the Cross Florida Greenway Land Bridge is just a giant concrete planter hanging above Interstate 75. Holding tons of organic materials and a watering system not normally found on regular bridges, the Land Bridge serves as both crossing platform and a nourishment container for animals, trees and plants. As a recreational bridge, the Cross Florida Greenway Land Bridge is a favorite destination by hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. It is not uncommon though to see some wildlife cross the bridge from time to time.

Wild Bill’s Air Boat Tours

View Details

Wild Bill’s Air Boat Tours

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

While Florida is known for its sandy beaches and tropical sunsets, it is home to a much more diverse natural landscape. With lush wetlands, winding rivers and forests, exploring the wilderness of Central Florida is a treat for any nature enthusiast. One of the best ways to discover this natural beauty is to take an airboat into the heart of it all.

Wild Bill’s Airboat Tours takes guests on a high-speed airboat ride down the Withlacoochee River and deep into the swamplands that conceal the native wildlife of Florida. For those who have never been on an airboat before; it is a truly unique experience, and Florida, with all of its swamps and wetlands, is the perfect place to take on the adventure.
The airboat is the perfect way to navigate through the shallow waters where guests will find an abundance of wildlife including the one-of-a-kind Florida Alligator. Tours can be arranged for single passengers and groups, and with U.S. Coast Guard approval, you can rest assured that you and your family will be safe and well taken care of.
Wild Bill’s Airboat Tours provide guests with a closer look into the real Florida. For an adventurous, outdoor afternoon, there is nothing we, at the Sleep Inn and Suites Ocala, recommend more.
12430 E Gulf to Lake Hwy, Inverness, FL
(352) 726-6060 ‎ · wildbillsairboattour.com

Hotel Meeting Rooms and Banquets

Hotel Meeting Rooms and Banquets are available in Silver Springs at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala, FL

View Details

Hotel Meeting Rooms and Banquets

Hotel Meeting Rooms and Banquets are available in Silver Springs at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala, FL

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Hotel Meeting Rooms & Banquets

Silver Springs-Ocala, FL Meeting Rooms

If you are planning to hold a meeting or business presentation in the area, our Silver Springs Hotel can provide you with the perfect meeting space to do so. Our on-site 750 sq. foot meeting facility can easily accommodate a variety of small to medium size events.

With seating for up to 30 people, high-speed wireless Internet, and the best in audio and visual equipment, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala strives to host the perfect environment for all business functions and social gatherings. Other available equipment include digital multimedia projector, modem lines, white board, and speakerphone.

Outdoor Events at Silver Springs-Ocala, Florida

Enjoy Florida’s beautiful scenery and weather by celebrating outdoors. Whether it is a wedding, birthday, a family reunion, a baby shower, a bridal shower, a retirement party or a Bar Mitzvah, it will be all the more memorable to your guests if it is outside in the open air. Our affiliated banquet catering partner, Mojo’s Grill, offers mobile catering services and has arranged to host such events at scenic local venues.

You can be married under a canopy of mature oak trees draped in Spanish Moss. You can enjoy a panoramic of equestrian fields, you can hear the sounds of nature as you exchange your vows. The most desirable feature of an outdoor wedding for many brides is that the photos will be all the more stunning because of the natural surroundings and the unique setting of such weddings. To find out more about outdoor events and weddings, please click here or call (352) 369-6656 to speak with someone at the Mojo’s Grill restaurant about their catering services.

Ocala Ballroom

108 N Magnolia Ave, Suite 104, Ocala, FL

Although we do not have an onsite ballroom, we have partnered with the Mojo’s Grill catering to offer access to the grand Ocala Ballroom. This gorgeous banquet hall is located only a few miles from our Silver Springs hotel and is situated in the historic Sovereign Building on Silver Springs Boulevard.

This beautiful facility has archways, tile mosaics, aesthetic pillars, tall windows, flowing drapes, magnificent lighting and a full A/V setup for all of your audio and video needs. The stunning elegance of this facility makes it an ideal location for weddings, reception dinners, private parties and other intimate types of gatherings. This venue is also perfect for banquets and other functions where food is required. The Ballroom can seat 150 people banquet style. For more information on catering, please visit Mojo Grill’s website. Additionally, part of the ballroom can be arranged to allow for dancing and live entertainment.

View Larger Map

Chocolate Fountain

Chocolate Truffles Ocala

View Details

Chocolate Fountain

World Class Golfing

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

Marion County has a wealth of golf clubs. With crisp manicured greens, beautiful vistas, and a variety of challenging course layouts, it is now wonder that golfers from all over the country flock to central Florida for premier golfing. To find out about golf clubs in the vicinity of our hotel, please check out the course descriptions below.
Ocala National Golf Club
4782 Northwest 80th Avenue, Ocala, FL * (352) 629-7981
This private Championship 18-hole course was designed by Rees Jones and is located in the heart of horse country. It has many event facilities including a ballroom that seats 250 people, tennis courts, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a fitness center, and a pro golf shop. Ocala National is known for hosting many notable golf events such as the U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur Championships.

Ocala Municipal Golf Course
3130 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, FL (352) 401-6917
Conveniently located on Silver Springs Boulevard in Ocala, Florida, the Ocala Municipal Golf Course offers a paradise of Bermuda grass fairways, Emerald Dwarf Bermuda grass greens, 5 sets of tees, and 34 sand bunkers. A practice facility is available and includes a driving range, putting green, short game area, and bunkers. Rental clubs and golf carts are available upon request. Traditional golf attire is required.

Candler Hills Golf Course
8137 SW 90th Terrace Road, Ocala, FL (352) 861-9712
The beautiful Candler Hills Golf Course, designed by Gordon Lewis, is located within On Top of the World Communities, one of Florida’s premier retirement communities. Among its other significant attributes, Candler Hills is a Par-72 Championship Golf Course. Practice areas are available for both shot-making long and short options. Candler Hills is a semi-private course offering five tees ranging from 4,877 to 7,333 yards and contains the longest par 5 in Florida.

Country Club at Silver Springs Shores
633 Silver Rd, Ocala, FL * (352) 687-2828
This semi-private, par-72 course offers a challenging game for any golfer. The combination of several different landscapes means that you will play through both parkland and typical Florida settings. This Desmond Muirhead designed course has a rating of 73.5 and a slope rating of 133 on grass. Additionally, the course offers a large clubhouse with banquet facilities perfect for weddings or other such events. A golf shop is also available on-site.

Baseline Golf Course and Lighted Driving Range
9000 Southeast 58th Avenue, Ocala, FL * (352) 245-4414
The stunning scenery of Ocala’s Baseline Golf Course will inspire your golf game. Perfectly manicured greens are juxtaposed with stylish tropical landscaping and a view that goes on forever. Golf cart trails are well maintained and allow easy access throughout the course. This public course does not do tee times, you just walk on. Prices are Baseline are exceptionally reasonable and as are concessions at the course snack bar. A lighted driving range allows play until 9pm.

Huntington Golf Club
799 Marion Oaks Manor, Ocala, FL * (352) 347-3333
This semi-private golf club boasts a Par-72 of Bermuda grass greens, and Bermuda grass fairways and tees. Landscaping includes tree-lined fairways and various elevation changes. An on-site golf shop and restaurant offer golfers the opportunity to purchase needed equipment or snacks throughout the day.

Lake Diamond Golf & Country Club
16 Golf View Drive, Ocala, FL * (352) 680-0269
Lake Diamond Golf & Country Club offers a secluded woodland setting in Central Florida. This semi-private golf club offers tight fairways that encircle beautiful Lake Diamond, a steep slope, and a #9 hole that was featured as one of the best in Marion County. Additionally, Lake Diamond Golf & Country Club offers a practice range, a pro golf shop, and a snack shop.

Marion Oaks Golf & Country Club
430 Marion Oaks Golf Way, Ocala, FL * (352) 347-1271
Marion Oaks offers 18 holes of manicured Bermuda grass greens, tree-lined fairways, and tricky sand bunkers. This championship golf course is a Par-72 and provides ample elevation changes with rolling topography. Marion Oaks has an on-site practice facility as well as a pro shop and clubhouse with event hosting available.

Royal Oaks Country Club
11220 SW 69th Circle, Ocala, FL * 352.861.1818
This challenging course will offer you 6,703 yards of manicured greens, changing slope angles, hazards, interesting approaches, and towering old Blue Jack Oaks and Slash Pines lining the fairways. The front nine and back nine of this stunningly beautiful Par-72 course is very different. The front nine are more secluded and feature 35-foot elevation changes whereas the back nine offers a meadow landscape. Royal Oaks also boasts a notable clubhouse restaurant which offers light meals during the day and fine dining in the evenings. Live music is provided in the clubhouse on weekends.

Ocala Palms Golf & Country Club
5174 NW 26th St, Ocala, FL * (352) 732-4653
The Ocala Palms Golf Course is nestled into a beautiful country club and retirement community. This Par-72 course features 18 holes of green fairways, ponds, sparkling waterfalls, white sand bunkers, old growth oak trees, and interesting topography that offers a challenge to skilled and amateur golfers alike. Ocala Palms is a semi-private course that offers four sets of tees and is open seven days a week. A pro shop is available on-site.

Pine Oaks of Ocala
2201 Northwest 21st Street, Ocala, FL * (352) 401-6940
This municipal Par-72 golf course offers amazing greens, landscaping, and wildlife to delight you during your game. Flowering trees in bloom provide a stunning background to this 18-hole course. A practice facility with full driving range and 4 acres of short-game area will help you hone your skills. Unlike most Ocala courses, Pine Oaks offers Disc Golf, a fast growing sport similar in principle to golf. Additionally Pine Oaks offers a snack bar and a fully stocked golf pro shop.

The Country Club of Ocala
6823 Southeast 12th Circle Ocala, FL * (352) 237-6644
This Par-72, 18-hole course was designed by Steve Nugent, and showcases the best golfing that Ocala has to offer. The Country Club of Ocala has hosted USGA, State Golf Association, and regional PGA events amongst others. A full tournament schedule is posted along with regular charitable events. The Country Club of Ocala also hosts a state-of-the-art practice facility which includes three putting greens, instructional tee, a short game practice area, a private practice tee, and a full driving range with complimentary range balls. A pro golf store and restaurant are available on-site.

Whispering Oaks Winery

Whispering Oaks Winery is a great place to go and try some delicious wine.

View Details

Whispering Oaks Winery

Whispering Oaks Winery is a great place to go and try some delicious wine.

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

Looking for something different to do while you are in town?
We have just the place for you. Whispering Oaks Winery is the perfect place for
you take your significant other, family or even your friends to enjoy some delicious
wine selections. They specialize in harvesting and fermenting fresh blueberries
to create mouthwatering wines that keeps you craving more.

Whispering Oaks also has different appetizers and flatbreads
that complement their wine selections. However, if you are looking for more of
a full dining experience you may interested in their “Steak Night.” This
includes:
Fresh from Idaho 12/16 oz Ribeye, T-bone or
Porterhouse steak. Salmon or an unlimited salad bar
Baked Potato
Brick oven baked bread
Side of fresh green beans or baked beans
Trip to the salad bar
For parties larger than 10 people,
please call us to book your reservation

So as you can see the Whispering Oaks Winery is a place you definitely
want to check out while you’re in the area.

Please Click Here to access their website!

Thank You! We Appreciate Your Business!

Guest Satisfaction

View Details

Thank You! We Appreciate Your Business!

Guest Satisfaction

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

Please let us know how your stay has been at Sleep Inn & Suites Hotel of Ocala-Belleview, Florida

The Grand Oaks Resort

View Details

The Grand Oaks Resort

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

The Grand Oaks is one of Florida’s hidden gems. It is called a resort, but it is far more than that. It's a scenic wonderland consisting of 400 acres of rolling hills and picturesque forest. The Grand Oaks contains the world’s largest private collection of antique carriages and equine artifacts, a spa, a deli and a market. It also features moonlight hayrides, driving competitions, concerts, fly fishing and so much more!
The Grand Oaks is a prime venue for weddings. They offer the grace and elegance of traditional Southern hospitality with breathtaking outdoor settings. The landscape is defined by still ponds, vast meadows, white fences, arching arbors, galloping horses, and antique carriages. Over ten antique carriages are available for hire including the Golden Carriage, built in 1840 for the Emperor of Austria.
The Carriage Museum offers a delightful and educational look back in time with over 160 European and American Carriages. These include an Armbruster Dress Chariot, an English Omnibus, a horse-drawn fire fighting apparatus, a World War I supply wagon, the colorful and ornate Sicilian Caretta, and a Dutch Tikker.
Whether you come for a wedding, reunion, carriage ride, the museum, or simply to soak up the beautiful surroundings, you will enjoy every second! The friendly staff and docents are eager to share the magic of this place with you!
Mailing Address:
3000 Marion County Road
Weirsdale, FL 32195
phone: 352-750-5500
fax: 352-750-3342
web: www.thegrandoaks.com

Our Location & Nearby Attractions

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala is Located next to Silver Springs Attraction and directly between downtown Ocala and the Ocala National Forest

View Details

Our Location & Nearby Attractions

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala is Located next to Silver Springs Attraction and directly between downtown Ocala and the Ocala National Forest

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hotel

Silver Springs-Ocala, FL Location

Conveniently located between the heart of Downtown Ocala, FL and the Ocala National Forest, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala offers easy access to a variety of local attractions. Our award winning hotel is located directly across the street from the world-famous Silver Springs Attraction and just three miles from Downtown Ocala and Silver Springs Shores. No matter what your reason for visiting Marion County, FL is, whether for business or leisure, the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala provides guests with a central location surrounded by a variety of activities.

Take a dip in a cool, natural spring, view the artwork at one of the state’s best art museums, The Appleton, or try your hand at a round of golf. One thing is sure, whatever you do, our Ocala area hotel will be the perfect place to come home to after a long day of work or play.

Nearby Attractions & Destinations

Silver River State Park 1 Mile
Appleton Museum of Art 1 Mile
Ocala Civic Theatre 1 Mile
Silver Springs State Park 1.4 Miles
Ocala National Forest 3 Miles
Historic Downtown Ocala 3 Miles
Reilly Arts Center - Downtown Ocala 3 Miles
Ocala Downtown Market (Wed. 3pm-7pm & Sat. 9am-2pm) 3 Miles
Munroe Regional Medical Center 6 Miles
Ocala Regional Medical Center 6 Miles
Ocala Rotary Sportsplex 6 Miles
Southeastern Livestock Pavilion 8 Miles
Canyons Zip Line 10 Miles
Ocala International Airport 12 Miles
Ocala Breeder Sales 12 Miles
Don Garlits Drag Racing Museum 18 Miles
Post Time Farm / HITS Horse Show 20 Miles
Rainbow Springs State Park 26 Miles
Island Grove Vineyard 30 MIles

Hotel Services

Complimentary Hot Breakfast - Enjoy buffet-style hot breakfast items like scrambled eggs or omelets, bacon or sausage, freshly made pancakes plus biscuits & gravy. Fruits, cereals & pastries also available.

Complimentary Internet - Stay connected with our lightning-fast Wi-Fi access. Shop online, check emails, update your Facebook status or watch streaming movies all in the comfort of your own room.

Heated Pool - Always a big hit with our young guests, our heated pool becomes a refreshing oasis after a long journey on the road. Take a dip or simply lounge in the pool deck all day

View Larger Map

High Def TV's - Watch your favorite movies in high def from our 32″ flat screen TVs. With six free HBO channels and hundreds more to choose from, you’ll run out of popcorn sooner than you think.

Fitness Center - Burn those calories away in our fitness center equipped with state-of-the-art cadio machines. Accessible 24 hours a day, you’ll have plenty of time getting fit and in shape

View Larger Map

Business Center - Need to read email, print boarding pass or access a document online? Our 24-hr business center equipped with workstations and printers could surely become very handy.

Microwave and Fridge - Keep your beverages cold and food hot in the comfort of your own room furnished with microwave and mini-refrigerator. For long staying guests, these items are a must.

Priority Club - Rack up points and rewards with the world’s largest and the best hotel loyalty program. Exchange accumulated points for free hotel stays, airline miles or merchandises.

Simplysmart Bed - Our SimplySmart Bedding Collection provides clean, fresh, climate-appropriate linens and your choice of pillows to make your stay as much like home as possible.

Simplysmart Bath - Our SimplySmart Guest Bathroom features a state-of-the-art shower head, curved shower rod for more elbow room, fluffy cotton towels, and specially formulated toiletries.

Santos Bike Trail

View Details

Santos Bike Trail

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

Mountain biking may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of activities Central Florida has to offer, but the Santos Bike Trails in Marion County provide a great area for bicycling enthusiasts.
Located on a large section of the Cross Florida Greenway, Santos Bike Trails offer the best mountain biking in the state. With over 30 miles of winding trails, through pine forests and oak hammocks, visitors can spend hours traversing the Central Florida terrain. With three levels of difficulty from beginner to expert, the trails can challenge even the most avid bicyclist. One of the more difficult trails available, which attracts many expert riders, navigates through an old mining quarry.
While the landscape is fairly level, especially for mountain biking, the sandy soil makes even the most modest hill a challenge to climb. The trails can be easily accessed through the Santos Trailhead, which is just off of Highway 441 in Belleview, Florida. At the trailhead is Santos Bike Shop, where guests can purchase gear and refreshments and learn about up coming biking events.
While biking is obviously the main attraction of the Santos Trails, there are also hiking and equestrian trails, as well as a campground with water and electrical hook-ups. Exploring the wild side of Central Florida is one of the best ways to enjoy the area, and a day of exhilarating biking on the Santos Trails is a great way to do so.
If you are visiting the trail and need to rent a bike, repair a bike, purchase cycling accessories, or get info on local trails and maps, please contact theSantos Trailhead Bike Shop located right off the Santos Trail on highway 441.

Silver Glen Springs at Ocala National Fore

Silver Glen Springs at Ocala National Forest

View Details

Silver Glen Springs at Ocala National Fore

Silver Glen Springs at Ocala National Forest

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Producing 65 million gallons of pure water every day, Silver Glen Springs is a first magnitude spring having a constant 72 degree water all year round. The mouth of the spring is 200 feet in diameter and the river that flows from the spring flows 3,300 feet into Lake George, the second largest lake in Florida.

Silver Glen Springs is located 6 miles north of highway 40 off of state road 19 along the eastern edge of the Ocala National Forest. The Silver Glen recreation area entrance is directly across from the Yearling Trail trailhead and lies north of the Juniper Wayside area. Our hotel is the nearest lodging to this popular destination and is located right on highway 40.

Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities at Silver Glen Spring. Snorkelers and swimmers can peer down into the gaping underwater limestone fissure that marks the mouth of the spring. The mouth of the spring is typically swarming with fish as they commonly enjoy the temperate waters that flow out of the underwater aquifer. Unfortunately, scuba is not permitted at this spring. Most parts of the spring’s swimming area are 4 feet or less deep and there is a shallow entry area for children. A concession stand is available.

Boating is allowed outside of the swimming area and this rule and others are strictly enforced. Camping is allowed but no hookups are available at this site. If you go to the springs, be aware that they will check your cooler for disposable food and drink containers. These are not allowed. Reusable and Tupperware are allowed however.

Our Partners

View Details

Our Partners

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

Zone Health and Fitness

Ocala National Forest

View Details

Ocala National Forest

Provided by: Howard Johnson Inn Ocala

View Service

Details:

The Ocala National Forest encompasses over 383,000 acres of natural land between the St. Johns and Ocklawaha Rivers. The ONF offers visitors a view of the natural habitats of North Central Florida, including over 600 natural lakes, rivers and springs. While many visitors choose to camp either in one of dozens of campgrounds or camping areas dispersed throughout the forest, there are many activities perfect for those wishing to spend an afternoon in nature.
For a little exercise, one can backpack through nearly 100 miles of trails winding through the natural habitat, or take the mountain biking trail that runs from the Clearwater Lake Recreation Area with Alexander Springs Recreation Area. There are also trails designated specifically for horse riding and camping. And for those interested in a more motorized view of the forest, there are over 200 miles of ATV and motorcycle trails and 81 miles of off-road trails for Jeeps and four-wheel drive vehicles, making the ONF one of the most-sought after destinations for off-roading in the state.

What can be the most attractive to visitors during the hot summer months, however, are all the water-related activities the ONF boasts. Natural cold-water springs like Alexander Springs and Jupiter Springs draw in thousands of guests yearly with their sparkling clear, refreshingly cold water. While the major springs and lakes attract most visitors, there are hundreds of smaller waterways scattered throughout the forest just waiting to be discovered.

Silver Springs State Park

Silver Springs

View Details

Silver Springs State Park

Silver Springs

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Our hotel is located adjacent to the world-famous Silver Springs State Park. Formerly known as Silver Springs Theme Park, Silver Springs has changed from what you may remember it being a few years ago. Getting back to Old Florida roots has been the true goal at Silver Springs State Park. While you won't see any exotic animals here anymore, you're still invited to take an enchanting ride on the World Famous Glass Bottom Boats. Tours are available daily and range from 30-45 minutes and include a knowledgeable guide who will point out many of the indigenous wildlife species here in central Florida.

Additionally, the park has grown to incorporate the Silver River State Park. This extends the park considerably and includes a longer blueway kayak run. Those who prefer to venture out on their own will enjoy the hiking and nature trails within the park. Silver Springs now offers a museum, canoe and kayak rentals, and camping. The newly opened state park also includes new concessionaires and gift shops as well as a new banquet, event and weddings services.

In addition to the nature trails, the glass-bottom boats, and the canoe and kayak rentals, the newly opened park will also include horseback rides available through Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides. We encourage you to get out and visit the new park. Even if you have been there in the past, you’ve never seen it like this!

Historic Downtown Ocala

View Details

Historic Downtown Ocala

Provided by: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Silver Springs-Ocala

View Service

Details:

Ocala’s vibrant downtown is unique in Central Florida. With a myriad of quirky restaurants, a theater, art galleries, a weekly farmers market, and one of the most stunning Winter Christmas Lights Display, Downtown Ocala provides hours of entertainment.

If you are feeling a bit peckish, why not try Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille, Ocala’s most popular restaurant? They even have patio seating on the sidewalk for warm spring nights. Other amazing eateries include Marks Prime Steakhouse (also with outside dining) and the Sushi Bistro of Ocala.

If you walk one block west of the Downtown square, at the corner of Broadway and 1st ave, you will come to the Ocala Wine Experience, a quaint little shoppe which specializes in fine wines and cheeses. Enjoy tastes from around the world or pick up the perfect housewarming present. If you want to pick up a more decorative gift, then why not visit one of several art galleries on the square or a gourmet Chocolate Confectioners.

If your feet get tired from walking and shopping, you can take in a show or some improv comedy at the Insomniac Theater.

Other businesses located in the downtown are include the Chamber of Commerce & Economic Partnership, the Munroe Regional Medical Center, and the Ocala Regional Medical Center.

Hotel Dining & Area Restaurants

Hotel Breakfast Dining & Area Restaurants

View Details

Hotel Dining & Area Restaurants

Partners

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

At A Glance
Free Breakfast with Hot Items
Free Wireless Internet Access
Large Heated Outdoor Pool
Next to Popular Restaurants
Smoke-Free & Green Certified
Easy Access from I-75, Exit 341

# 1 Ocala Hotel in Guest Satisfaction

Perfect for both business and leisure travelers, this multiple award winning Sleep Inn & Suites hotel near Florida Horse Park is situated at the intersection of Interstate 75 and Highway 484, in the heart of the “Horse Capital of the World – Ocala/ Marion County”.

We are located next door to Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing and is less than one mile away from the Florida Horse Park, an official training site of the U.S. Olympic Equestrian Team.

This Marion County hotel provides easy access to many popular destinations, including:
The Villages
Historic Downtown Ocala
Ocala Equestrian Complex
Orlando theme parks, including Walt Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando and Universal Studios
Tampa theme parks, including Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

These nearby natural attractions offer outdoor adventures like hiking, jogging, biking, ATV, horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, swimming, bird watching and much more:
Cross Florida Greenway
Belleview-Santos Bike Trail
Ocala National Forest
Silver Springs Nature Park
Silver River State Park

Guests of this Ocala, FL hotel are invited to enjoy many amenities, including free deluxe continental breakfast with eggs, Belgian waffles, yogurt, fruit, pastries, cereal, juice, coffee and tea. Free local calls, a free Wall Street Journal newspaper, free parking and free coffee in the room and the lobby are also offered. A fitness center and outdoor heated pool are also on the property.

Rainbow River

Check In: Check Out: Rooms AdultsChildren Book Now Rainbow River

View Details

Rainbow River

Check In: Check Out: Rooms AdultsChildren Book Now Rainbow River

Provided by: Sleep Inn & Suites

View Service

Details:

There is no better way to cool off from the heat of the hot summer sun than taking a dip into one of Florida’s waterways, and the Rainbow River, fed by the sparkling clear, cold waters of Rainbow Springs, is one of the best places to do so. There are two parks available for guests looking to access the river: K.P. Hole County Park and Rainbow Springs State Park.

Both parks have picnic areas, fully accessible bathrooms, and swimming, tubing, kayaking, canoeing and diving. There are some differences between the two parks that are important to note depending on what you want to do. If you are interested in tubing down the river, the K.P. Hole Park offers a longer ride, but to see the headwaters where the spring formations are you have to visit Rainbow Springs State Park.
Either park you choose to enter, the Rainbow River is truly spectacular. The springs pump out 72 degree, crystal-clear water all year long and produce sparkling clarity throughout the 5.6-mile long river. With underwater visibility of over 150 feet, guests can view a variety of underwater creatures and plants, including a vast array of fish species and turtles.
Not surprisingly, archeological evidence suggests that people have been visiting these spring waters for almost 10,000 years. This is the real Florida, and this is one thing you don’t want to miss during your stay in beautiful Marion County.

Ocala Grand Prix	3 Miles	College of Central Florida	4 Miles
Ocala Breeder Sales	4 Miles	Florida State Fire College	5 Miles
Lowell Correctional Institution	5 Miles	Ocala Speedway	5 Miles
Ocala Thunder Quad Flat Tracks	5 Miles	Canyons Zip Line	5 Miles
Southeastern Livestock Pavilion	5 Miles	Silver Springs / Wild Waters	8 Miles
Ocala Rotary Sportsplex	10 Miles	Don Garlits Drag Racing Museum	12 Miles
Ocala National Forest	15 Miles	Post Time Farm/HITS Horse Show	15 Miles
Rainbow Springs State Park	15 Miles	Island Grove Vineyard	20 Miles

Don Garlits Drag Racing Museum	0.1 Mile	Marion Oaks Community	1.5 Miles
Florida Horse Park	1.5 Miles	Cross Florida Greenway	2.8 Miles
Belleview-Santos Bike Trail	10.7 Miles	Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides	3.7 Miles
Rainbow Springs State Park	20 Miles	Florida Carriage Museum	19.4 Miles
Gypsie Gold Farm	2.1 Miles	Wild Bill Airboat Rides	21.9 Miles
Ocala Flying Model Club	5.0 Miles	Historic Downtown Ocala	14.7 Miles
Appleton Museum of Art	19.4 Miles	Silver River State Park	21.3 Miles
Silver Springs Nature Park	20.5 Miles	The Villages	15.2 Miles

Farm Tour - Ocala Florida

Tour Information

Farm Tours of Ocala's Recommendations:

Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

Accessible Rooms

Accessible Rooms

Ocala Speedway

Ocala Speedway

Hotel Restaurant & Room Service

Hotel Restaurant & Room Service

Swimming with the Horses

Swimming with the Horses

Two Queen Room

Two Queen Room

Enjoy Two Queen Beds

Fudge

Fudge

Chocolate Fudge

We offer many different types of fudge:

Two Queen Bed Room

Two Queen Bed Room

Ocala Breeder Sales

Ocala Breeder Sales

Holiday Inn Express Silver Springs

Holiday Inn Express Silver Springs

Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

Ocala's Chocolate and Confections

Corporate Gifts

Corporate Gifts

Details:Coming Soon

Ice Cream

Ice Cream

Ice Cream

Our Flavors

Gypsy Gold Vanner Horses

Gypsy Gold Vanner Horses

Ocala's Drive-In Theatre

Ocala's Drive-In Theatre

Don Garlits Drag Racing Museum

Don Garlits Drag Racing Museum

Gift Assortments and Seasonal Products

Gift Assortments and Seasonal Products

Gift Assortments and Seasonal Products

Gift Baskets & Boxes:

Seasonal Products:

Awesome! Please Share Your Experience

Awesome! Please Share Your Experience

Accessibility Statement

Accessibility Statement

The Market of Marion

The Market of Marion

King Room

King Room

Farm Tours of Ocala

Farm Tours of Ocala

Canyons Zip Line and Canopy Tours

Canyons Zip Line and Canopy Tours

Thank You! We Appreciate Your Business!

Thank You! We Appreciate Your Business!

Things To Do at Ocala National Forest

Things To Do at Ocala National Forest

Ocala – Horse Capital of the World

Ocala – Horse Capital of the World

​Accessible Rooms

​Accessible Rooms

Going Green

Going Green

Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides

Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides

Catering

Catering

Details:Coming Soon

Accessibility Statement

Accessibility Statement

Dining

Dining

Hotel Meeting Rooms

Hotel Meeting Rooms

Youth Sports Venues

Details:

Coming Soon

Accessible Rooms

Accessible Rooms

Details:

Coming Soon