Ocala

Set in the north central part of the state, Ocala attracts visitors with its Old Florida charm and a laid-back lifestyle dominated by horse farms, tree-laden golf courses, an historic downtown and easy access to the Ocala National Forest, Appleton Museum of Art and Silver Springs theme park.

The revitalized downtown area is a social epicenter with a collection of restaurants, taverns and boutique shops as well as a farmers market. In addition, there' s a large residential historic district with spectacular examples of Victorian architecture.

Dubbed as the "horse capital of the world," Ocala has hundreds of horse farms where thoroughbreds and other horses such as the Tennessee Walker, Arabian and Paso Fino are bred and trained. In fact, nearly 50 different breeds are represented in the area. Horse farms in Ocala have produced numerous Kentucky Derby winners and Breeders Cup Champions.

Visitors to the area gravitate to the main attractions for activities such as hiking, fishing and camping at the Ocala National Forest; viewing an impressive collection of European, American and Contemporary Art at the Appleton Museum of Art; and cruising on glass bottom boats, taking nature tours and enjoying live concerts at Silver Springs.

Car enthusiasts enjoy the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, which has an amazing collection of drag racers, classic cars and hot rods.

For golfers, the verdant, undulating land surrounding the city has provided architects such as Ron Garl, Desmond Muirhead and Karl Litten with engaging terrain to design a wide variety of course experiences. A propensity of large oak trees and rolling hills provides golfers with always-interesting play options.

The Ocala area's impressive course menu includes public, private and semi-private golf courses, including two of Florida's best public layouts: Ocala Golf Club, and Pine Oaks of Ocala.