In a previous article, we discussed some of the benefits of hiring a property manager to maintain and look after your rental. If you have finally decided to take the leap and call CrossRoads Realty & Property Management in Ocala, you may be wondering what you are going to do with all of the free time you now have because a property manager is in charge of your rental. Here at CrossRoads Realty & Property Management, your happiness is our priority, and we won’t stop working until you are completely satisfied with your services. So even though we will take care of all of your management needs, we want to offer you a few recommendations of things you can do in Ocala while you enjoy your wonderful newfound free time.
Sholom Park
Sholom Park is located in Ocala at 7110 SW 80th Avenue. This gorgeous in-town getaway features 11 different parks for you to enjoy. The park’s About Us page explains, “Sholom Park was designed as a place to find inner peace and to thrive in the Central Florida climate. Whether introspection, silence, meditation, fresh air, or just a few moments to enjoy nature are your goal, Sholom Park’s purpose is to provide a majestic place where each individual may experience a true and lasting contentment.” Paved walkways weave throughout the park, offering views of the beautiful vegetation including oak trees, hickories, sweetgums and longleaf pine trees. Stroll the park, relax on one of the benches along the trail, and take in the calm, blue waters of the park’s central pond.
The Gypsy Gold Farm
The Gypsy Gold Farm is located in Ocala at 12501 SW 8th Avenue. At the farm, you will take a tour of the grounds led by owner Dennis Thompson. As the “Horse Capital Of The World,” Ocala is the place you want to visit for countless opportunities to view some of the most beautiful horses on some of the most gorgeous properties. On Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, two-hour tours start at 10am–guests will receive a thorough and detailed tour of the farm and the horses, as well as receive a special story about the Gypsy Vanner Horse breed. Previous visitors have praised the farm for its beautiful views, tame horses and friendly, informative owner. Many describe the experience as, “The perfect day!”
Appleton Museum Of Art
The Appleton Museum Of Art is located in Ocala at 4333 E Silver Springs Boulevard. The 81,610 square-foot museum was founded in 1982, the City of Ocala donated the 44-acre site for the home of the museum. Construction began in 1984, and the museum opened to the public in 1987. The museum exhibits works of fine art and artifacts for the public and provides educational programs for visitors. Check out the museum’s calendar of events, here.
Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs River is one of the last uninhabited springs that runs in the state. According to the Florida State Parks website, “There are three entrances to Silver Springs State Park. The main entrance is located on State Road 40 at 5656 East Silver Springs Boulevard, Silver Springs, FL 34488. The camping & Museum entrance is located on State Road 35 at 1425 NE 58th Avenue, Ocala FL 34470. The equestrian entrance is located approximately 1.3 miles east of the Main Entrance on State Road 40.” The park features paved trails, ornamental gardens, campsites and the opportunity to rent kayaks, glass-bottom boat trips and modern campsites. The equestrian trails weave through midland habitats, meaning it’s likely you will come across areas with standing water. And, as we all know, standing water means bugs including deer flies and mosquitoes–plan accordingly!
Big Lee’s
Big Lee’s is located in Ocala at 3925 SE 45th Court. If you’re new to the area or even a local looking for the best hometown cuisine, check out this barbecue joint. The crew at Big Lee’s is “Serious About Barbecue,” and the extensive menu features smoked meat meals like “Massive Beef Short Rib,” incredible side dishes like homemade mac & cheese and tasty desserts like homemade peach cobbler. One happy diner notes that, “If you are into eating food that is memorable, don’t miss this place. The reviews here for Big Lee’s are overwhelmingly positive and rightly so. The barbequed meats are prepared with a huge helping of TLC which is apparent in each bite.” Check out this joint’s food truck, brick and mortar location or have your next meal catered by Big Lee’s. For more information, check out their menu, here.
