The World Equestrian Center (WEC) in Ocala has officially opened a massive new facility that features multiple new restaurants and over 300,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space.
Located at 1750 NW 80th Avenue in Ocala, The Equestrian Manor is designed to accommodate a wide range of functions, from intimate meetings to major conferences and weddings.
“The debut of The Equestrian Manor marks an important milestone for World Equestrian Center,” said Mason Jordan, a representative for WEC. “This venue reflects our continued investment in creating exceptional experiences for both business and social gatherings, while strengthening WEC’s role as a Central Florida destination”.
The new manor includes grand and junior ballrooms, private meeting suites for executive sessions, and a dedicated bridal suite. In total, there is 303,857 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space. That also includes a 10,500 square foot grand ballroom. To take advantage of Florida’s climate, the facility also offers outdoor terraces and covered balconies.
The facility features a blend of modern elegance and refined architectural details, including white marble floors, wood accents, and crystal chandeliers.
Alongside the event space, The Equestrian Manor introduces several new dining options. Two venues have already opened, including The Polo Pony, described as an “elevated American tavern,” and Emma’s Patisserie, a second, expanded location of the property’s popular European-inspired pastry shop.
WEC officials announced that two rooftop dining venues will also debut in the coming weeks. Genievieve’s will offer an elegant Italian concept, while The White Willow will serve pan-Asian cuisine featuring sweeping views of the resort.
“Our culinary program at The Equestrian Manor is designed to be a central part of the group experience, offering interactive and immersive dining opportunities that go beyond a traditional meal,” said Jeremy Gow, Senior Director of Food & Beverage for World Equestrian Center.
Next to The Equestrian Manor, WEC is currently working on The Shoppes Off 80th, which is a new, equestrian-themed, outdoor shopping complex currently projected to open later this year.
Over the past two years, WEC has celebrated the opening of The Riding Academy Hotel, a new hospital, and several other facilities at its northwest Ocala site.