How to Plan a Horseback Riding Weekend in Ocala, Florida

Ocala, located in Marion County, Florida, is known as "Horse Capital of the World." Read on to learn how to explore the area's rolling hills and scenic country roads by horseback.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Transportation
• Computer with Internet access

1. While planning your accommodations in Ocala, you will be met with many options, from romantic bed and breakfasts to large chain hotels and motels. The Seven Sisters Inn Bed and Breakfast is located in Ocala's Historic District. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visit their website at http://www.sevensistersinn.com.
2. More than 200 horse farms and training centers are devoted to breeding, training and showing many horse breeds. Several of these farms offer public tours and riding lessons.
3. You won't want to miss the Austin Carriage Museum, which is located a short drive away from Ocala in Weirsdale. Located on the Continental Acre Equine Resort, the museum boasts authentic horse carriages from the 19th century. Visit their website at www.ocalacarriage.com.
4. A trip to Ocala wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Ocala National Forest, which features hundreds of camping sites, trails and natural springs.
5. Ocala has over 100 miles of horseback riding trail. Visitors can rent horses at several locations in the area and take off for a day of exploration. The area's gentle rolling hills, flat trails and forests make for a very pleasant riding experience.