Ocala is the largest city in Marion County in the northern region of Florida. It is called the Horse Capital of the World, as it is home to more than 600 Thoroughbred farms as well as the Florida Horse Park that serves as the official training site for the US Equestrian team.
Ocala used to be home to many Native American settlers. Its name was derived from the word “Ocali”, which means “big hammock” in the native language of the Timucuan Tribe.
Many channels of water surround Ocala. These include the Ocklawaha River which spans 110 miles. It runs through northern Florida up to the St. Johns River. Because of its geography, Ocala offers a wide range of water activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and canoeing that are ideal for families. Residents also enjoy hiking, biking, and camping. One of the tourist attractions in Ocala is the Silver Springs State Park which has 15 miles of trails, luxury cabins, and a full-facility campground. For those who enjoy arts and culture, dining out, and shopping, Ocala has an array of establishments for you.
There are two seasons in Ocala. From June to September, expect thunderstorms since the city’s cloud-to-ground ratio for every square mile is higher than any other area in the world. The dry season starts in October and ends in May.
When it comes to education, Ocala has different schools and colleges that cater to students of all ages. Adult classes and technical courses are likewise available.
As for healthcare, Ocala is home to several establishments that are approved cancer centers and in-patient joint care. There’s also a hospital that specializes in preventive medicine, as well as family and general medicine.
Ocala has plenty of land for residential use, and with the wide range of home prices available, many can afford to buy properties in this city. Some of the best places to buy property include Silver Springs, Belleview, Summerfield, Dunnellon, and Lake Weir. There are several residential communities that are ideal for those who are in retirement, each with various amenities that are geared for all kinds of families.