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An insider look at the best of the competitions in Ocala 
By, Carly Rein

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Episode 7: Ocala, Florida

In this episode of Gallop the Globe, Carly Rein travels to Ocala, Florida—one of the fastest-growing equestrian hubs in the United States. Carly explores the city’s thriving horse show scene, filming at both the World Equestrian Center (WEC) and HITS Ocala, two of the premier competition venues that draw top riders and horses from around the world each winter season.

The episode captures the atmosphere of both venues—from the scale and luxury of the World Equestrian Center to the competitive energy of HITS—offering viewers an inside look at what makes Ocala such an important destination on the international show jumping circuit.

Beyond the sport, Carly also shares her favorite travel recommendations around Ocala. The guide highlights scenic horse country, charming downtown spots, great local restaurants, and hidden gems that make the area special for riders and visitors alike.

Whether you're traveling to compete, spectate, or simply experience one of the most horse-centered regions in the country, this Gallop the Globe episode offers an insider guide to exploring Ocala and its world-class equestrian venues.

🌟 Event: "WEC"

World Equestrian Center

The World Equestrian Center – Ocala is one of the largest and most advanced equestrian competition venues in the world, located in Ocala, Florida—often referred to as the “Horse Capital of the World.” The facility was developed by Larry Roberts and opened in 2021 with the goal of creating a premier destination for equestrian sport.

The venue features more than **300 acres of competition grounds**, including multiple outdoor arenas, climate-controlled indoor arenas, and thousands of permanent horse stalls designed to accommodate international-level events. At the center of the facility is the **Grand Arena**, which hosts major competitions such as international show jumping classes, hunter derbies, and large prize-money events during the winter circuit.

In addition to competition facilities, the complex includes **luxury amenities rarely seen at horse shows**, including the The Equestrian Hotel, high-end restaurants, boutiques, and spectator spaces designed to make the venue accessible and enjoyable for both equestrians and visitors.

Today, the World Equestrian Center hosts major hunter, jumper, and equitation competitions throughout the year and has quickly become a central hub for winter competition in North America, drawing top riders, trainers, and horses from around the world.

🌟 Event: "HITS" Horse shows In The Sun

🚆 Top Places to Stay

Best option:
• The Equestrian Hotel at WEC — luxury hotel overlooking arenas
• The Riding Academy - another hotel at WEC

Nearby options:
• SpringHill Suites Ocala
• Hilton Ocala
• Holiday Inn & Suites Ocala
• Rental homes, Airbnbs, or farm stays for longer visits

 ✈️ Nearby Airports & Transportation

Ocala International Airport (OCF) — closest, limited flights

Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV) — 45 minutes

Orlando International Airport (MCO) — ~1.5 hours

Tampa International Airport (TPA) — ~1.5 hours

TRAVEL GUIDE: 

Ocala: WEC & HITS

HITS Ocala is one of the longest-running and most recognized hunter/jumper competition venues in the United States, located in Ocala, Florida. The venue is part of the Horse Shows In The Sun (HITS) circuit, which hosts major equestrian competitions across North America.

The Ocala show grounds span more than 100 acres and feature multiple competition arenas, extensive stabling, and the well-known Grand Prix Stadium, where top riders compete in high-level jumper classes throughout the winter season. Each year, HITS Ocala hosts a multi-week winter circuit that attracts professional riders, amateurs, and junior competitors from across the country.

While the venue has a more traditional horse show atmosphere compared to newer luxury facilities, HITS remains an important part of the American show jumping calendar. Its competitions provide opportunities for riders at every level while still hosting major prize-money events that draw elite athletes.

Located in the heart of Florida horse country, HITS Ocala also places competitors close to Ocala’s expansive training farms, scenic horse properties, and a community deeply rooted in equestrian culture.

🍽️ Culinary Delights

Top local dining options:
• Mark’s Prime Steakhouse
• Brick City Southern Kitchen
• Ivy on the Square
• Soleil Bakery & Social House (desserts)
• Sayulita Taqueria
• La Cuisine (French)
• Mesa De Notte (Italian)
• Horse & Hound
• Salted Brick at Ocala Preserve
• The Crazy Cucumber 352 Eatery & Bar
• Braised Onion
• Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen
• Eggs Up Grill — breakfast & burgers
• Las Margaritas Mexican
• Zuru Ramen & Boba

🌆 Top Attractions Around Ocala

Highlights include:

• Scenic drives through horse country
• Downtown Ocala Square boutiques and cafés
• Visiting breeding and training farms
• Farmers markets & local festivals
• Antique shopping 
• Silver Springs State Park — glass-bottom boat tours
• Rainbow River — kayaking & tubing
• Horse farm countryside drives
• Hiking & biking trails nearby
• Paddle boarding & spring swimming
• Snorkeling Devil's Den
• Canyon Zip Line & Adventure Park
• Appleton Museum of Art
• Two Tails Ranch elephant sanctuary
• Day trip (1.5 hr) to Disney or Universal in Orlando

🏞️ Traveler Tips & Must-Knows

• Book early during winter circuit — Hotels fill quickly from January–March during peak competition weeks at World Equestrian Center – Ocala and HITS Ocala.

• Rent a car — Ocala is spread out and ride shares can be limited.

• Dress in layers — Cool mornings often turn into warm, sunny afternoons.

• Explore horse country — Scenic farm drives and nearby Silver Springs State Park are worth visiting.

• Visit downtown Ocala — Great restaurants and a charming historic square.

• Don’t miss the Grand Prix — Friday night classes are a highlight of the week.

WEC On-Site Guide