8 Reasons to Choose Ocala/Marion County for Your Next Sporting Event
Ocala / Marion County is a fantastic destination for both youth and adult sporting events. Here are 8 reasons why this is so.
Sporting event locations should be easy to access, boast plenty of amenities, and have decent weather so games can go on as planned. Ocala, located in central Florida’s Marion County, has all of this and more, making it an ideal destination for youth and adult sporting events.
Here are eight reasons to choose Ocala/Marion County for your next sporting event.
![](https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/sports_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=320&s=cbbb7bdab19444b0a90a37baac430611 320w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/sports_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=540&s=eb2bb6b20765e42c2151fa3a4c5c96fc 525w)
1. Top-notch Facilities
- Our destination features a full array of spacious, well-maintained field complexes for baseball, lacrosse, soccer, and softball.
- We offer nearly a dozen championship-level golf courses with slope ratings unlike anywhere else in Florida.
- If you’re looking for the perfect place to hold an equestrian event, look no further. Here in The Horse Capital of the World®, you’ll find a wide variety of scalable, climate-controlled facilities suitable for nearly all types of competition. Click here for more information on our thriving equestrian scene.
![](https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/1.-facilities_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=320&s=0384d5e6e28baaae9bbd0ecb051da3c6 320w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/1.-facilities_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=540&s=1d18dbeb603ed57ff9b812b253ebf728 540w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/1.-facilities_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=768&s=6877622b8e58c1892ba063aef360de63 750w)
2. Team-friendly Accommodations
Ocala/Marion County offers more than 4,000 rooms in brand-name hotels that are ready and eager to welcome groups of any size. You can also find unique alternatives:
- Cabin rentals next to spring-fed rivers
- B&Bs on horse farms
- RV resorts.
You’re sure to find the right accommodations for your group, located just a short drive from your tournament facility.
With dozens of hotels in the area, teams are able to block rooms for everyone so players can socialize around the pool or common areas during off time. From large conference centers to small mom-and-pop motels, lodging is available in all price ranges and to suit all tastes, so players can get a good night’s sleep before the big game. For more information on accommodations in Ocala/Marion County, click here.
![](https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/team-friendly-accomodations-Springhills.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=320&s=cd36e86601300befaabe2d5a22032d84 320w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/team-friendly-accomodations-Springhills.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=540&s=ddf432f9f49a9b196b5b7390e43a4e68 540w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/team-friendly-accomodations-Springhills.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=768&s=47438828258ced32787db9d8530e1e5e 768w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/team-friendly-accomodations-Springhills.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=1024&s=a0456c1ed7800fbb6ad514f7f59474c6 1024w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/team-friendly-accomodations-Springhills.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=1200&s=7dc35fc9e329118f490fb91912fbb115 1200w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/team-friendly-accomodations-Springhills.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=1440&s=4ba64553d734c6456f61f83022859bb7 1440w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/team-friendly-accomodations-Springhills.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=1920&s=cf3b3e1afd229da1642729cb97b57788 1920w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/team-friendly-accomodations-Springhills.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=2560&s=80f62d0d7aeb27af520c6a8fcfc8c9ed 2560w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/team-friendly-accomodations-Springhills.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=3840&s=173baffe33ba633b34f0a6fa3adc1f17 3840w)
3. Easy Acces
Ocala/Marion County is so centrally located in the Sunshine State, you’ll have no problem getting here. Accessibility by car or bus is simple, with major Florida interstate I-75 leading directly to our destination. If you’re flying, we’re an easy drive from airports in Gainesville, Jacksonville, Orlando and Tampa.
![](https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/Marion-County-Pillar.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=320&s=55f2032e4b896145a71d34a15d23e0b9 320w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/Marion-County-Pillar.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=540&s=4af99c0b185ec0c96e274a790e227bb7 540w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/Marion-County-Pillar.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=768&s=d8fa2f0f5b0734896bd15489eb28f474 768w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/Marion-County-Pillar.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=1024&s=1345410170c09a9db0093ac213f3f37b 1024w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/Marion-County-Pillar.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=1200&s=3b17d836d9f6f0984fdd91f8bddb32fa 1200w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/Marion-County-Pillar.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=1440&s=ca86150342c1e812dac36a7340a42fc0 1440w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/Marion-County-Pillar.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=1920&s=5d76642d86a0c29ce169f0aec136bd15 1920w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/Marion-County-Pillar.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=2560&s=661b1e89d211f0ac21cb2b88cb181603 2560w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/Marion-County-Pillar.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=3840&s=8d7b93caddffd591bd963c7cf5cea2a3 3840w)
4. Optimal Value
When you need to make the most of your budget, Ocala/Marion County is the place to do it. From facility rentals and room rates to meal costs and everything in between, you’ll get the most for your money in our area. Financial incentives are available. Our sports sales team will be glad to give you all the details!
![](https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/4.-winning-value_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=320&s=0b4b1d621e5e062bba2b7f63e931f3ae 320w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/4.-winning-value_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=540&s=887f52addca49e87f375a2d47eea7c8d 540w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/4.-winning-value_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=768&s=f17f8381b086211fb47f9f3eb2c7fb4d 750w)
5. Fun On & Off The Field
Planning to stay a day after the tournament, or arrive early? The destination features great sight-seeing opportunities:
Outdoor Adventures
The Ocala National Forest and nearby state parks offer an abundance of springs, trails, and campgrounds for swimming, picnicking, and other outdoor adventures. Ocala/Marion County brims with some of the most amazing freshwater springs and rivers in Florida. These crystal-clear waterways stay 72 degrees year-round, meaning tired athletes will find the refreshment they’re looking for after the big game.
Horse Farm Tours
Teams and families can explore the Horse Capital of the World® by touring some of the horse farms or hitting the trails by horseback.
Culture
The area also boasts some top-quality museums if you are in the mood for more refined entertainment.
![](https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/h_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=320&s=1d1d903ca6751dad498a85d1881e4d07 320w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/h_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=540&s=d25b0ba8ed367da9766debbdb5b4edfe 540w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/h_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=768&s=c6fbb9d50a9565dd87f88f7c257feec7 750w)
6. Team-friendly Dining
You and your group will eat like champs in Ocala/Marion County — and do it affordably, too. Our destination is packed with team-friendly restaurants of all types:
- burgers and wings at sports-themed establishments
- barbecue joints
- pizza places
- eclectic and chic eateries
- quick-stop ice cream and treats
- and more!
You’ll find everyone’s favorite chains throughout the area, all of which are used to accommodating large groups of famished young athletes. But we also have lots of unique, locally owned restaurants in quaint settings, ideal for smaller groups or chaperones who are looking for a little grown-up time. However you choose to fuel up after a day of competition, you can be sure that your group will go home with endless memories of good food and good times. Click here for more information on dining options in Ocala/Marion County.
![](https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/6.-dining_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=320&s=c4d8e20a5b3836529506eec8c05dceb1 320w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/6.-dining_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=540&s=2f542e86ba8414b733e71e37d79de091 540w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/6.-dining_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=768&s=2767005241d449d8c13fe795b46be645 750w)
7. Great Weather
With an average high of 80° Fahrenheit in the hottest summer months and 57° Fahrenheit in the cool winter, Ocala/Marion County offers temperate conditions perfect for competitive play. While traditionally, a rainy season happens during the summer, showers are normally quick to pass, which allows for continued tournaments or other events at all times of the year.
![](https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/7.-weather_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=320&s=63db9d1a7fa1dbaad47d8f73ec8ed550 320w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/7.-weather_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=540&s=d63e8b207cd3066a630a318fa13b6c14 540w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/blog-images/7.-weather_77a996cadb6acd997fdd4924ba23cc85.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&q=80&w=768&s=386d022a88a7c5234314f251444bc9bd 750w)
8. Plenty Of Support
Our Visitors and Convention Bureau offers an all-star staff that’s ready to help you make your next event one for the record books. They’ll treat you like the MVP — Most Valuable Planner — you are, and do everything they can to help knock your event out of the park! Email Sales@MarionFL.org or call 352-438-2800.
Related Stories
![](https://ocala.imgix.net/images/Meta-data-image-mtime20200615111943.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=320&q=80&w=320&s=f7e9ce1688897a3bc8e933ee90c1ca09 320w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/Meta-data-image-mtime20200615111943.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=540&q=80&w=540&s=2f8ce2da4b4283b17398895807fd8144 540w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/Meta-data-image-mtime20200615111943.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=768&q=80&w=768&s=9b956d8037e8b25552cb77e919ebc0e1 768w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/Meta-data-image-mtime20200615111943.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=810&q=80&w=810&s=480d6436797542576f54d66f65190199 810w)
Top 10 Places to Have Fun in Open Spaces
You don’t need to be an expert outdoor explorer to have an adventure in Ocala/Marion County nature.
![](https://ocala.imgix.net/images/meta-images/MTB-Rocky-Trail-mtime20180928134951.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=320&q=80&w=320&s=b50b0b58cce5049cb0e0bd4b74fcd15e 320w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/meta-images/MTB-Rocky-Trail-mtime20180928134951.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=540&q=80&w=540&s=ebb2dc9e4f6cbe688055ddceae4fccbb 540w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/meta-images/MTB-Rocky-Trail-mtime20180928134951.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=768&q=80&w=768&s=926a12422d87f8c81b17a1ba7aa360ee 768w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/meta-images/MTB-Rocky-Trail-mtime20180928134951.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=1024&q=80&w=1024&s=39651ec79dcf65508ac891105471a652 1024w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/meta-images/MTB-Rocky-Trail-mtime20180928134951.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=1080&q=80&w=1080&s=cc1b52ee72396e2553443979bd32f956 1080w)
Nationally Recognized Mountain Bike Trails
Ocala/Marion County is receiving national attention for its mountain biking trails.
![](https://ocala.imgix.net/images/horse-tours-mtime20181029181448.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=320&q=80&w=320&s=1400535980795f2476697642da14060b 320w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/horse-tours-mtime20181029181448.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=540&q=80&w=540&s=bd7cfffc7b25906fed9bbb9fa79edf93 540w, https://ocala.imgix.net/images/horse-tours-mtime20181029181448.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=crop&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=599&q=80&w=599&s=f4f42686f93bdc5c463c4b9f7aab9701 599w)
Horseback Riding Tips and Trails for Beginners
Avid riders and beginners alike will appreciate the following information about the best riding tips and trail breeds for your…