OCALA
In 2007, Ocala was designated as the “Horse Capital of the World”, so what better place is there to open the second location of the World Equestrian Center!
GRAND OPENING
The WEC opened in January of 2021 and it hosts some of the world’s most prestigious competitions in almost any equine discipline you can think of.
SIZE
This grand venue spans currently spans over 378 acres with an extra 300 acres allocated for expansion. It is the largest equestrian complex in the United States because it boasts a whopping 15 outdoor arenas and 5 indoor. Its amenities are not to be outdone by any other venue in the US.
ARENAS
The “Grand Outdoor Arena” is 128,000sf in size and is the center feature of the facility. An area called “Hunter Land” sits on the west side of the facility and it has a voluminous jumping arena named the World Equestrian Stadium with a dedicated warm up arena by its side. There’s also Jumper Village on the north end featuring two of the main outdoor arenas. All of the arenas have state of the art, all-weather footing.
ACCOMODATIONS
The Equestrian Hotel overlooks the Grand Outdoor Arena and it’s spectacular. There are 248 rooms, casual and fine dining, and a promenade and over 13,000sf of retail space. Who doesn’t like to shop for horsey things? The facility also has 71 separate mini homes featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 baths each. These are geared for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the horse show ring. Lastly, for those who have more of a flavor for camping, there is an RV park with almost 300 parking spots.
BARNS
The accommodations for the horses have all of the creature comforts. The barns can accommodate up to 3000 horses. The stalls are 12’x14’ or 12’x12’, have matted floors, individual ceiling fans, and steel grated doors. Each barn has 12’ aisleways and wash racks with hot and cold water.
OTHER EVENTS
If one is looking for a fun, horsey place to vacation, this is the spot! Beyond horses, there are concerts, it’s a wedding venue, and there are other sporting events and conventions.
Don’t miss my next blog which is on the city of Ocala itself because there are lots of fun things to do in town as well.