Historic Downtown Ocala, Ocala, Florida

Historic Downtown Ocala is a neighborhood in Ocala, Florida that is just 3 miles east of I-75, and only a 10-15 minute drive from many of the city's attractions. The area is bordered on the north by SE 3rd Street, on the south by SE 8th Avenue, on the east by NE 1st Avenue, and on the west by Pine Avenue. Historic Downtown Ocala has many attractive features, one of them being the ease of walking through the whole of the neighborhood. The area's tree-lined streets, quaint shops, and historic buildings give the area a small-town feel, while its central location makes it a great base for exploring all that Ocala has to offer. There are so many activities, sights, restaurants, and bars within this charming neighborhood, making it difficult to know where to start!

The town square of downtown Ocala is a large starburst-shaped paved octagon surrounded by trees, grass, and greenery, with a historic gazebo that serves as a platform for concerts and events. The courthouse, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, dominates one side of the square. Other notable buildings in the area include the Marion Theatre, which hosts movies and live performances, and the Brick City Center for the Arts, which is a gallery and performance space for local artists. Want It Gone loves providing our services in the area. You can learn more about us here!

Popular Places in Historic Downtown Ocala

Brick City

This part of town is known as "Brick City" because most of the city burned down in 1883, and was rebuilt using brick instead of lumber to preserve the town's history.

Courthouse Square

Built in 1851, this was the original site of Ocala's first courthouse. The current courthouse is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Magnolia Avenue

Magnolia Avenue has so many things to do, whether you just want to experience the neighborhood, or have something specific in mind. You can find thrift stores, locally owned and operated shops, the Marion Theater, and restaurants like the Brick City Southern Kitchen and the Magnolia Bakery.

Ocala Historic Downtown Square

At the center of the historic district and within walking distance of all the shops and restaurants is the Ocala Historic Downtown Square. The courthouse, which was built in 1892, dominates one side of the square. The other sides are lined with trees, grass, and benches, making it a great place to take a break from shopping or exploring.

Infinite Ale Works

A Belgian-inspired brewery established in 2014 by locals with a vision and a love for beer. this award-winning brewery is also known for their ingenuity with using beer for cocktails, food, and baking bread.

Things To Do in Historic Downtown Ocala

Canyons Zip Line and Canopy Tours

Providing a birds eye view of the surrounding scenery and countryside, these zip line tours have become a very popular activity in recent years. Only a short drive from Historic Downtown Ocala, Canyons Zip Line and Canopy Tours has several choices for zip line tours with varying heights and lengths to accommodate everyone who is interested. There are also horseback and rappelling tours available to those who want to try something different.

Gypsy Gold Horse Farm

Established in the 1990s, Gypsy Gold Horse Farm was started when a couple decided to start a farm with horses they shipped over from London. The horse breed is known as the Gypsy Vanner, and is recognized for its unique color and gentle disposition. Tours of the farm are available, as well as other activities like carriage rides and hayrides.

Union Street Downtown Farmer’s Market

This farmers mark has been open for over 20 years, operating only on Wednesday from 4 until 7 PM. It is located on Union Street, which is the main drag of Historic Downtown Ocala. The market has a wide variety of vendors, selling everything from fresh produce to handmade goods.

Check out another cool Ocala neighborhood in our post, Why Visit West Ocala!