Horse Capital of the World®: Marion Insider's Guide

Make the most of your time in Horse Capital of the World® with this curated itinerary from Marion County Commissioner Carl Zalak, III. Learn insider tips about places to go and where to eat to make your experience unforgettable.

Watch the Episode Below!

Stop 1: Gypsy Gold Horse Farm

Begin your day with a guided tour of Gypsy Gold Horse Farm. This lively farm is home to Gypsy Vanner horses as well as donkeys and parrots. There are two great guided tour options available for guests to enjoy. Read on to learn more.

Horses and History Tour: On this 2-hour tour, find out about the deep history of the Gypsy Vanner breed, then see a real-life example when you meet the horses up-close.

Walking Tour: On this 1-hour tour, visitors can explore the lush paddocks and spend time petting the horses and other animals on the farm. This tour is a great option for people with young children.

Guests are encouraged to wear close-toed shoes and bring carrots to feed the horses. And, no matter which tour you choose, you'll have plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to browse through souvenirs at the gift shop.

12501 SW 8th Ave Ocala, Florida 34473
(352) 307-3777

Stop 2: Horse and Hounds Restaurant

Looking for a spot to eat after your tour? Keep the horse capital experience going and look no further than Horse & Hounds Restaurant.

Home to award-winning meals, including Prime Rib, Fish & Chips and Shepherd's Pie, this laid-back restaurant covers everything from American comfort foods and classic sandwiches to a variety of hearty salads.

Enjoy your meal in the pub or relax on the patio. For more idea on where to eat in Ocala/Marion County, check out all the dining options.

6998 US 27 Ocala, Florida 34482
(352) 620-2500

Stop 3: Walk of Champions

To wrap up your day, head over to downtown Ocala and explore the Walk of Champions. Discover the history behind some of Ocala/Marion County's most famous horses as you explore 24 bronze plaques.

Plaques recognizing famous thoroughbred horses can be found on the sidewalk block of South Magnolia Ave. adjacent to Mark's Prime Steakhouse and Brick City Southern Kitchen & Whiskey Bar.

Champions of various breeds that are not thoroughbreds can be found recognized on plaques on the sidewalk block of SE Broadway St. adjacent to the Hilton Garden Inn hotel.

Download the OcalaMarion Travel Guide App to make this self-guided tour truly immersive! Go to the Walk of Champions page and learn the backstory of the horse, see photos and some video snippets.

30 S Magnolia Ave Ocala, Florida 34471
(352) 438-2800

We hope this itinerary helps you plan your day. Please visit ocalamarion.com/things-to-do/equestrian/ to explore more Horse Capital of the World® experiences.

Carl Zalak, III
Author
Carl Zalak, III
Marion County Commissioner District 4
Having owned a business and serving as a civic leader in Marion County, I have dedicated myself to improving our community. This is where I am raising my children while making investments for the future. I am excited about this series and the opportunity to share some insider tips and tricks for visiting and exploring our beloved natural wonder. Join me on this journey and discover for yourself why Ocala/Marion County is truly the best place to live, work, play, shop, and dine!

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