Marion County, Florida is proud to be known as the Horse Capital of the World. This beautiful county is made up of five charming and unique cities: Ocala, Belleview, Dunnellon, McIntosh and Reddick. Marion County offers picturesque scenery, exciting outdoor activities, cultural diversions and exceptional shopping. All the best of Central Florida can be found in Marion County.

With the highest number of horses and ponies in residence in America,virtually every breed of horse can be found here including the American Quarter Horse, Arabian, Paso Fino and Warmbloods. Marion County is home to 600 thoroughbred farms. Together these farms have proudly produced 41 national champions, 6 Kentucky Derby winners, 19 Breedersí Cup champions and 6 Horses of the Year. Besides breeding and training, Ocala hosts many equestrian competitions and events. The Florida Horse Park is an official U.S. Equestrian Federation training site where many Olympic-level and international competitions take place. Ocala/Marion County is also home to the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit attracting 3,500 horses and their riders to compete in a series of jumping competitions.

Marion County is a wonderful place for countless outdoor activities. The Ocala National Forest provides many opportunities for hiking, biking and camping. The Silver River, Ocklawaha River and Rainbow River along with many other springs and lakes offer many lovely spots for fishing, canoeing, tubing and water skiing. The world famous attractions, Silver Springs and Wild Waters Water Park are two beautiful and popular theme parks located in Ocala/Marion County.

Ocala/Marion County has many cultural opportunities to complement our natural activities. The Appleton Museum of Art contains a varied collection of art from around the world. Most recently the museum attracted many interested citizens when it exhibited dresses owned and worn by the late Princess Diana. Diana-Dresses for a Cause raised funds for charity. The Marion County Museum of History, Austin Carriage Museum, Silver River Museum and Discovery Science and Outdoor Center are entertaining and educational for the entire family. Ocala/Marion County also boasts Brick City Center for the Arts, The Webber Center Gallery and the Ocala Civic Theater.

Ocala/Marion County offers a wide variety of shopping opportunities. The Downtown Square is the perfect place to stroll while perusing charming boutiques and gift shops. An assortment of restaurants, night spots and a comedy club are also conveniently located there. Small town southern charm and many antique shops can be found in McIntosh and Dunnellon. Marion County also offers a large indoor mall and an open air market place.

For genuine southern hospitality in a beautiful and relaxed atmosphere Ocala/Marion County is the perfect place to visit and the ultimate place to live.