From fine dining and coffee shops to kayaking and orchestra performances, there is no shortage of options in Ocala for those looking to spend a romantic day or evening together.
For anyone looking to grab a small bite or drink while getting to know someone in an intimate setting, there are multiple cozy spots in downtown Ocala that might fit the build.
That includes the Gathering Cafe (306 SW Broadway St), which is open for breakfast and lunch and features a menu filled with sandwiches and coffee. The restaurant features an open layout that is inviting and allows daters the chance to get to know one another in a relaxed environment.
Stella’s Modern Pantry (20 SW Broadway St) is another quaint cafe with a light menu of salads, sandwiches, and gourmet entrees. The business also sells a variety of boutique goods and wines, which provide good parting gifts for daters.
Symmetry Coffee Company (101 E Silver Springs Boulevard, Ste. 102) recently relocated from its previous digs in the base of the old Marion Hotel to the former location of Katya Vineyards. The coffee spot offers ample seating and a quiet setting to sit back and interview a potential mate.
For those looking to explore one of the many restaurants that call Ocala home, there are quite a few dining options that offer great food and great scenery.
One of the newest additions to the scene in downtown Ocala, The District Kitchen and Bar opened in 2023 and offers a great outdoor view of the city from its second level.
Both Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille (24 SE 1st Avenue) and Ivy on the Square (53 S Magnolia Avenue) feature modern, sleek settings that are better for daters looking for a hearty meal. The restaurants are both located in downtown Ocala, with Harry’s offering Louisiana-based cuisine and Ivy on the Square serving up southern dishes.
For daters looking for more of a fine dining setting, Ocala has quite a few restaurants that fit the bill.
In downtown, those options include Mark’s Prime (30 S Magnolia Avenue), Katya Vineyards (11 E Silver Springs Blvd), and La Cuisine (48 SW 1st Avenue). Outside of downtown, diners might try visiting Mesa De Notte (2436 E Silver Springs Blvd), The Braised Onion (754 NE 25th Avenue), Ipanema Brazilian Steak House (2023 S Pine Avenue), or the recently opened Remington’s Steakhouse.
For those who are looking to do something active on their date, Ocala features multiple natural sites that are worth a visit, as well as a few businesses that focus on various types of entertainment.
A hike, swim, or canoe ride at Silver Springs State Park, a walk through the Tuscawilla Park and its art park extension, or a stroll through the Ocala Wetland Recharge Park all give daters a chance to talk while enjoying wildlife and natural beauty.
There are also two escape rooms in Ocala (The Ocala Escape – 4901 E Silver Springs Blvd; Huddys Escape – 5400 SW College Road), a comedy club (Bonkerz – 36 S Magnolia Avenue), as well as a recently opened poker room, for those looking to play cards on a date.
For movies, exhibitions, and shows, the Marion Theatre, Reilly Arts Center, Discovery Center, Epic Theatres, and Hollywood Regal 16 are all viable options on most nights.
For most daters, there should be no problem finding something to do in Ocala. Do you have a favorite date spot in Ocala? Share it with us in a comment below.