Lifestyle
The Horse Capital of the World
Why Marion County earned the title — and what that means for residents and visitors today.
More than 1,200 thoroughbred farms operate in Marion County, more than any other county in the United States. The mineral-rich limestone aquifer, mild climate, and a century of selective breeding have made Ocala the second city in the world (after Lexington, Kentucky) to officially trademark “Horse Capital of the World.”
What that means in daily life:
- The World Equestrian Center hosts year-round competitions drawing international audiences
- Working farms welcome visitors for tours along the Florida Horse Park and HITS circuits
- The smell of pasture grass and horse leather is part of the air after spring rains
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