National Geographic just ranked the Ocala National Forest as one of its 25 best places to travel to in the world.

The magazine released its Best of the World 2025 annual list this week highlighting 25 “awe-inspiring” places that it recommends travelers visit in the upcoming year.

“Most visitors to Central Florida are drawn to the area’s theme parks and beaches – but tucked between them is a green oasis,” reads a passage from the magazine.

Alexander Springs Recreation Area within the Ocala National Forest
Alexander Springs Recreation Area within the Ocala National Forest in July 2024. Credit: Ocala-News.com Staff

The passage goes on to highlight the 387,000-acre forest’s status as the southernmost national forest in the continental United States, its extensive wildlife offering, and its 600 lakes and natural springs.

The list was compiled by National Geographic’s team of travel explorers and photographers, and Nat Geo Traveller‘s international editorial teams.

“It is an absolute honor to have the Ocala National Forest featured on this esteemed list of destinations and we are beyond excited to share this beautiful forest with visitors from across the globe,” said Loretta Shaffer, Tourism Development Director for Marion County.

Alexander Springs is one of the many springs within the Ocala National Forest.
Alexander Springs is one of the many springs within the Ocala National Forest.

The National Geographic Magazine was founded in 1888 as a scholarly journal. The publication currently has over 1 million subscribers and operates one of the most-followed Instagram pages in the world.

“I like to think of BEST OF THE WORLD as National Geographic’s annual invitation to get out and explore for yourself the incredible diversity of places and experiences around the world,” said Nathan Lump, editor-in-chief of National Geographic. “This year, at a time of uncertainty and difficult challenges, that feels more important than ever. My hope is that our 2025 list is a reminder that there’s still so much to be excited about, and that through travel, we can connect with joy and hope.”

The most recent accolade for the city of Ocala is one several that have been bestowed on the Horse Capital of the World over the past year.

Earlier this year, Travel + Leisure profiled the city of Ocala for its “fair share of cool things,” including the forest, Silver Springs State Park, and the World Equestrian Center. Late last year, the magazine said Ocala was one of the most beautiful places in Florida.

In July, TIME magazine included the World Equestrian Center on its list of the “World’s Greatest places” to visit and stay.

In May, U.S. News & World Report recognized Ocala as one of the top 100 Best Places to Live in the United States for 2024-2025.

Jeremiah Delgado has lived in Florida for over 25 years, moving to the Sunshine State from Chicago, Illinois in 1999, just before his 11th birthday. While living in Winter Springs, Florida, Delgado attended...