Things to Do — The Villages, Ocala & Central Florida
Adventures, attractions, and experiences across the region
Beacon Hill & Lake Harris Trail
LeesburgThe paved Lake Harris Trail connects Venetian Gardens to points north, running along the lakeshore with wide-open water views. The Beacon Hill neighborhood section features canopy oaks and some of Leesburg's oldest homes. At nearly 5 miles one-way, the trail is ideal for cycling or a longer walk. Sunsets over Lake Harris from the trail are consistently stunning.
Fort Cooper State Park
InvernessA peaceful 710-acre park centered around Lake Holathlikaha, with five miles of trails through hardwood hammocks and longleaf pine flatwoods. One of Citrus County's best-kept secrets for birding and nature walks.
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Crystal RiverHome to rescued Florida wildlife including manatees, black bears, and the famous hippo Lu. The underwater Fish Bowl Observatory lets you watch manatees and fish from below the surface.
Lake Okahumpka Park & Trail
Wildwood130-acre park with pet stations & picnic shelters, plus a paved trail, disc-golf course & boat ramp.
Ocala National Forest
OcalaNearly 400,000 acres of sand pine scrub, prairies, and springs make this the southernmost national forest in the continental U.S. Home to world-class swimming holes at Alexander, Juniper, and Salt Springs.
Rainbow Springs State Park
DunnellonFlorida's fourth-largest spring feeds the Rainbow River with 72-degree water so clear you can see your shadow on the sandy bottom. Perfect for tubing, kayaking, and swimming in a pristine natural setting.
Silver Springs State Park
OcalaFlorida's original tourist attraction, featuring the world's largest artesian spring formation. Glass-bottom boat tours reveal an underwater world of fish, turtles, and ancient fossils in impossibly clear water.
Three Sisters Springs
Crystal RiverOne of Florida's most stunning natural springs, where crystal-clear water reveals every detail of the sandy bottom. A must-visit for swimming, snorkeling, and winter manatee encounters.
Venetian Gardens Park
LeesburgA gorgeous 100-acre waterfront park on Lake Harris with arched pedestrian bridges, island walkways, and panoramic lake views. The splash pad, playgrounds, and paved trails make it a perfect family outing.
Wooton Park & Pavilion on the Lake
TavaresLakeside park featuring a play structure, a seaplane-themed splash pad (fee) & picnic areas.