A Group Travel Guide to Ocala, Florida's Best Destinations

Silver Springs State Park

No trip to Ocala is complete without visiting Florida’s original tourist attraction: Silver Springs State Park. Famous for its glass-bottom boats that allow visitors to gaze down into the crystal-clear depths of the springs, this park is a haven for nature lovers and history buffs alike. When you rent a charter bus to Silver Springs, you eliminate the hassle of finding parking in the often-busy lots, especially on weekends. Your driver can drop your group off right at the main entrance located at 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488.

A private bus rental is particularly beneficial here because after a long day of kayaking, paddleboarding, or walking the nature trails to spot monkeys and manatees, your group will appreciate a climate-controlled cabin waiting for them. You can store coolers with lunch, extra changes of clothes, and hiking gear in the overhead bins or undercarriage storage compartments. Whether you are organizing a senior citizen outing to enjoy the boat tours or a school field trip to learn about the local ecosystem, Charter Bus Rental Company Ocala ensures everyone arrives together and leaves refreshed. We can even arrange a shuttle schedule if your group wants to split time between the springs and the nearby Wild Waters water park area during seasonal operations.

World Equestrian Center (WEC)

Ocala is known as the "Horse Capital of the World," and the crown jewel of this reputation is the World Equestrian Center. This massive, sprawling facility is the largest equestrian complex in the United States and hosts world-class horse shows, expos, and events year-round. Located at 1750 NW 80th Ave, Ocala, FL 34482, the WEC is a city unto itself, featuring luxury hotels, fine dining, and retail shops. If you are a competition team traveling with athletes, coaches, and support staff, a 56-passenger charter bus rental is essential. You’ll have ample undercarriage storage for equipment and luggage, allowing the team to travel in comfort without feeling cramped.

Even if you aren't competing, the WEC is a fantastic destination for spectators. During the Winter Spectacular or other major events, parking can be spread out. By booking a private shuttle bus with Charter Bus Rental Company Ocala, your group can be dropped off curbside near the Grand Arena or the hotel entrance. This is also a prime location for corporate events and galas. Impress your stakeholders or employees by arranging a sleek, modern motorcoach to transport them from their hotels to the WEC for a night of dinner and dressage. With amenities like onboard WiFi and power outlets, professionals can stay connected even while on the road.

Ocala National Forest

For groups seeking rugged adventure and untouched wilderness, the Ocala National Forest offers over 600 square miles of springs, hiking trails, and forests. Destinations like Alexander Springs, Juniper Springs, and Salt Springs are incredibly popular for swimming and snorkeling. Navigating the forest roads can be tricky for those unfamiliar with the area, especially when trying to keep a caravan of cars together. A charter bus rental ensures that your hiking club, scout troop, or family reunion group stays safe and together. While cell service can be spotty in the forest, your driver will have the route mapped out perfectly.

When visiting the forest, logistics are key. Most recreation areas, such as the Juniper Springs Recreation Area (26701 E Highway 40, Silver Springs, FL 34488), have specific areas for larger vehicle parking, but they fill up fast. Booking a bus allows you to drop off your group with their gear right at the trailhead or spring entrance. Plus, after a day of swimming in 72-degree water or hiking a section of the Florida Trail, there is nothing better than reclining in a plush seat with the air conditioning blasting on the ride back to Ocala. We can also arrange transportation for multi-day camping trips, dropping you off and returning for pickup on a scheduled date.

Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

Rev up your engines for a trip to the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, a must-see for car enthusiasts and history lovers. Located just south of Ocala at 13700 SW 16th Ave, Ocala, FL 34473, this museum chronicles the history of the sport and the life of "Big Daddy" Don Garlits, the father of drag racing. The museum houses nearly 300 race cars and antiques in two massive buildings. This is an excellent destination for car clubs, senior tour groups, and STEM field trips interested in automotive engineering.

When you visit with a charter bus, you avoid the stress of navigating I-75 traffic with multiple vehicles. The museum has ample parking for motorcoaches, making accessibility a breeze. Your group can take their time exploring the Drag Racing building and the Antique Car building without worrying about coordinating departure times among several drivers. On the way to the museum, use the onboard PA system to share trivia about drag racing history or play a documentary on the bus’s TV monitors to get everyone excited for the exhibits. Charter Bus Rental Company Ocala makes educational and specialized tours seamless and engaging.

Appleton Museum of Art

For a dose of culture and sophistication, the Appleton Museum of Art is Ocala's premier destination. Located at 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL 34488, the museum features a vast collection of European, American, Asian, African, and Pre-Columbian art. It is a fantastic venue for school field trips, university art history departments, and private cultural groups. Navigating a large group of students or art patrons through the exhibits is easier when everyone arrives at the same time.

Renting a charter bus for your trip to the Appleton Museum ensures that your group arrives punctually for their scheduled tour. We offer fleets of buses for large school districts or single minibuses for intimate art appreciation societies. With climate-controlled interiors, your group can escape the Florida heat and discuss the exhibits in comfort on the ride home. If you are planning a black-tie gala or fundraiser at the museum, consider booking an all-black or all-white fleet of buses to shuttle guests from designated parking areas or hotels, adding a touch of elegance and convenience to your event.

The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park

If your group craves adrenaline, look no further than The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park. This unique attraction transforms old limestone quarries into a high-flying adventure course with massive zip lines, rope bridges, and horseback riding. It is located at 8045 NW Gainesville Rd, Ocala, FL 34475. This is a top choice for corporate team-building retreats, bachelor or bachelorette parties, and youth groups looking to bond over shared thrills.

Transportation to The Canyons is best handled by a driver. After an exhausting day of zip-lining and climbing, the last thing anyone wants to do is drive. A charter bus rental from Charter Bus Rental Company Ocala serves as your mobile base camp. You can leave changes of clothes, water, and snacks securely on the bus while you adventure. Once the adrenaline wears off, your group can crash in reclining seats and share photos via the onboard WiFi while your driver handles the return trip. We can also coordinate a stop for dinner at a local Ocala restaurant after your adventure to cap off the perfect day.

Gypsy Gold Horse Farm

For a truly unique Ocala experience, visit the Gypsy Gold Horse Farm, home of the first Gypsy Vanner horses in America. Founded by Dennis Thompson, this farm offers educational tours that dive into the history of the breed and Romani culture. Located at 12501 SW 8th Ave, Ocala, FL 34473, tours are generally by appointment, making punctuality critical. This is a favorite stop for animal lovers, agricultural groups, and anyone interested in the unique equestrian history of the region.

Because this is a working farm located on specialized property, bringing a convoy of personal vehicles can be chaotic and disrupt the serene atmosphere. A single minibus or charter bus keeps your group consolidated and respectful of the property's logistics. Your driver will ensure you navigate the rural roads of Marion County and arrive with plenty of time to check in for your tour. Enjoy the pastoral views of Ocala’s horse country through the panoramic windows of your bus as you approach the farm, setting the mood for a magical experience with these beautiful animals.

Historic Downtown Ocala Square

For dining, shopping, and nightlife, the Historic Downtown Ocala Square is the place to be. Centered around the gazebo at SE Broadway St, Ocala, FL 34471, the square is surrounded by trendy restaurants like Mark’s Prime Steakhouse, Harry’s Seafood, and Infinite Ale Works. It hosts regular events like the First Friday Art Walk and holiday lighting ceremonies. Parking in downtown Ocala, especially during events or Friday nights, can be scarce and frustrating for large groups trying to stick together.

A private bus rental is the ultimate hack for enjoying Downtown Ocala. Your driver can drop your group off right at the square so you can immediately start exploring. Whether you are planning a corporate dinner, a wedding rehearsal dinner, or a pub crawl for a birthday celebration, having a designated driver is invaluable. Everyone can enjoy the nightlife safely, knowing their ride is waiting for them. We can arrange a pick-up spot a block away from the busiest foot traffic to ensure a smooth departure at the end of the night. It’s the safest, most convenient way to experience the local culture.

Rent Your Ocala Charter Bus Today

Ocala, Florida, is a destination rich with culture, nature, and equestrian excellence, and there is no better way to explore it than with Charter Bus Rental Company Ocala. We are committed to providing top-tier customer service, transparent pricing, and a fleet of modern buses to meet your every need. Whether you are a local organizing a family reunion or a visitor planning a destination wedding, we have the expertise to make your transportation seamless.

Don't let the logistics of group travel dampen your experience. Let us handle the traffic, the parking, and the navigation while you focus on making memories. Our reservation specialists are available 24/7/365 to answer your questions and build a custom itinerary just for you. Call us today at 352-353-8690 to get your free, no-obligation quote, or use our online quote tool for instant pricing in under 30 seconds. We look forward to earning your business!