I moved to Ocala in 2011 at the age of 7. It’s now 13 years later, in 2024, almost 2025, and I am 20 years old. I think it’s fair to say that I was raised in Ocala, and I don’t plan on leaving anytime soon. Truth be told, I didn’t always want to stay in Ocala. When I was younger, I didn’t like it very much and always thought I would leave as soon as I turned 18. However, as time went on and I grew older, and as Ocala grew bigger and more familiar to me, I gained an attachment to this city. Growing up, Ocala was often called “Slocala,” but over time, it has grown significantly. There are more people, more houses, more restaurants, more stores, and so on.
Ocala offers the best of many worlds. It’s not too much of a small town, yet it’s also not too city-like or too beachy. It’s conveniently located close to both beaches and larger cities. Ocala is the definition of ‘central Florida’, literally in the middle of everything.
Being in Ocala for almost 14 years, I’ve developed some favorite spots. One of my top choices is Scrambles Cafe; their breakfast is amazing, and the service is always excellent. Ocala also hosts a variety of events, including the Saturday farmers market, which I love because it brings the community together to share and sell their passions. Another highlight is the World Equestrian Center, which hosts a good amount of events. Just a few weekends ago, I attended an antique event there. As an obsessed thrifter, it was fantastic to see people from the community showcasing and selling their antiques.
As many of you may know, Ocala is home to beautiful natural attractions such as Silver Springs State Park, Rainbow Springs in Dunnellon, and numerous other parks. My favorite park is Sholom Park, which is known for its peaceful and zen atmosphere. There’s even a designated zen area that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
In a city that has grown so much over the years, I feel lucky to have witnessed Ocala’s transformation firsthand. I’ve had the privilege of growing up here, and I can truly say that Ocala isn’t just where I live; it’s where I’ve grown. I’m excited to see where Ocala goes next, and I’m thrilled to continue calling it home.