Discover the Florida County Known as the Horse Capital of the World

How would you like to visit the ‘Horse Capital of the World’?

Texas, California, and Florida are the top 3 states with the most horses. One Florida county stands out above all the rest, earning it the title of the ‘Horse Capital of the World’, and we’re here to tell you all about it. So saddle up, and get ready to learn all about this horse-loving county, including its history and fun horse-themed things to do when you visit.

Why Is Marion County the Horse Capital of the World?

Marion County is the ‘Horse Capital of the World’ because it’s home to more horses than anywhere else in the country. Florida’s mild winters, limestone-rich grasses, and spring-fed aquifers attract over 15,000 thoroughbreds for annual training. And many of these horses wind up competing in famous races like the Kentucky Derby.

Marion County is the perfect county to enjoy an equestrian escape. Horseback riding, horse farm tours, and horse shows; there are plenty of horse-themed activities to enjoy. Some people travel from all over the world to attend different events. Take for instance, “Horses in the Sun,” a renowned horse show in Marion County that shows off all of the different equestrian disciplines. With so many different horse opportunities, it’s clear to see why this county is the ‘Horse Capital of the World’.

Famous Marion County Racehorses

Marion County has been a key player in training many famous racehorses. Throughout history, a lot of the horses in the Kentucky Derby have come from Marion County in one way or another. In 2017, an astounding 85% of the horses in the Kentucky Derby’s lineup started their training in Ocala. And in 2021, over half of the competing horses had some connection to Ocala. Let’s look at a few of the most famous horses the county has helped produce.

Affirmed

In 1978, Affirmed etched its name in American history by clinching the coveted Triple Crown. A feat only possible by conquering the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes in a single year. With ties to Marion County, this triumph not only showcased the horse’s prowess but also enhanced the county’s reputation as a hub for horse racing excellence. It didn’t hurt either that Affirmed was the great-great-grandson of Triple Crown Winner War Admiral.

Needles

Needles made history as the first Florida-bred horse to seize victory at the prestigious Kentucky Derby. Trained and bred in Marion County, this achievement marked a defining moment, highlighting the caliber of horses that Marion County could produce and nurture.

American Pharoah

2015 witnessed a remarkable feat as American Pharoah secured the Triple Crown, making them the 12th winner in history. This is an honor reserved for victors of the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes within a single year. Having its roots in Marion County, this helped further the county’s reputation for producing and training world-class racehorses.

Horse Farms in Marion County

Currently, Marion County’s equine industry accounts for more than 77,000 acres of land, further highlighting the extensive impact of the industry on the region’s landscape. It all began in 1943 when the first thoroughbred farm in Florida was established in Ocala. This marked the beginning of the area’s prominence in equine activities, paving the way for more horse farms.

Now, the region’s equine landscape is marked by 600 thoroughbred horse farms. Collectively, these farms have had numerous successes, including 45 national champions, 6 Kentucky Derby winners, 20 Breeders’ Cup champions, and 6 Horses of the Year.

Here are some of the horse farms in Marion County:

• Bridlewood Farm
• Diamond Oaks Farm
• Ocala Equestrian Academy
• Red Moon Farm
• The Horse Capital Tours
• Cavalia Stables
• Five Phases Farm

Some of the horse farms in Marion County offer tours, and even horseback riding opportunities.

Bridlewood Farm: Horse Paradise

Bridlewood Farm was founded in 1976 by Martha and Arthur Appleton. Spanning over 2,200 acres, the farm has been a major success for nearly half a century. This location has a legacy of excellence with numerous achievements in thoroughbred racing, breeding, and sales. On-site, you’ll find state-of-the-art facilities for both breeding and training thoroughbred horses. There are 13 barns, collectively providing 346 stalls to accommodate the horses and a natural equine swimming pool. The property also includes round pens, hot walkers, and exercisers. There are also 145 fields and paddocks, providing plenty of space for the horses to graze and roam.

Gypsy Gold Horse Farm

The Gypsy Gold Horse Farm is a popular destination located in Ocala, Florida. Founders Dennis and Cindy Thompson have been breeding these horses for over 25 years. The farm attracts people from around the world due to its reputation in the equestrian industry. They specialize in breeding and training Gypsy Vanner horses, a breed known for its beauty. Standing between 14 and 16 hands tall, Vanner horses are characterized by their long, flowing manes, brightly colored coats, and muscular bodies.

The Gypsy Gold Horse Farm goes above and beyond to make sure each horse has a wonderful, healthy life. Foals receive individualized care from birth to ensure their health and well-being. Detailed records are kept for each horse’s medical history, dietary needs, and training, ensuring tailored care.

The farm’s facilities include modern stables and spacious paddocks that allow horses to graze and exercise freely. The way they do things on the farm leads to horses that are in great shape physically, have a good mental balance, and are emotionally well-adjusted. Plus, they’re absolutely stunning to see in person. Their farm tours are one of the top attractions in Ocala.

World Equestrian Center in Ocala

The World Equestrian Center, the largest equestrian facility in the US, is impressive to see. Everything they do there is above board, ensuring every visitor has a great experience from the moment they arrive. Walking onto the property, you’ll be greeted by gorgeous architecture and grand structures. Covering nearly 400 acres, the complex has show rings, barns, pathways, and a lavish hotel.

The equestrian center also has 16 enormous arenas. These arenas have over 100,000 square feet of riding space each, and they’re air-conditioned indoors to keep everyone cool during hot Florida summers. The best part is you don’t have to ride a horse to enjoy the facilities. Non-riders have plenty of opportunities to watch equestrian events and dine in an outdoor plaza. There are also fun shops, veterinary services, fuel pumps for RVs, and a delicious ice cream shop.

Horseback Riding Opportunities

One of the best ways to fall in love with horses is by going horseback riding. It doesn’t matter if you’re an experienced or novice rider, you can ride trails throughout Marion County on guided tours. Horses are usually assigned based on the riders’ weight and experience level. Professional guided tours let you explore in a safe way, as you learn all about Florida’s wildlife and fauna.

Imagine galloping through open fields or exploring oak-lined trails. Maybe you’ll spot a hawk or owl, or even a bear off in the distance. You never know what adventures await when you’re horseback riding.

Here are some of the places you can try horseback riding in Marion County, Florida:

• Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides
• Diamond Oaks Farm Horseback Riding Center
• Ocala Stirrups

If you don’t want to ride a horse, but you still want a horse experience, why not go for a carriage ride? Ocala, Horse Country Carriage Company & Tours offers an experience that resonates with the essence of equestrian elegance and the timeless bond between humans and horses.

Marion County History

Established in 1846, Ocala emerged due to the Indian Wars, with Fort King serving a pivotal strategic function. Marion County was once part of Alachua, Hillsborough, and Mosquito (now Orange) Counties. It’s currently the 19th largest county in Florida. Today, there’s an estimated population of 389,291 residents.

More About Fort King

Marion County was known for being the home of Fort King, a military outpost located near present-day Ocala, Florida. The post was constructed during the 1820s and served to guard against Seminole incursions during the Second Seminole War.

By the 1840s the war began to cool down, and Fort King was eventually abandoned. Early settlers in the region decided to repurpose the materials from the abandoned fort for various useful purposes. The materials from the fort, such as wood and stone, were likely used in constructing new buildings or for other practical needs.

Who Lived There Before It Was Marion County?

The original settlers of the land that’s now Marion County were the Timucua also known as the Ocali Indians. They’re a collective of Native American tribes who lived in present-day regions of southern Georgia and northern Florida. In Central Florida, they occupied a region extending from Jacksonville to Orlando and from Daytona to Cedar Key.

During the 1500s, about 200,000 Timucua were occupying over 19,000 square miles. However, by 1800, the Timucua population had dwindled significantly, with survivors assimilating into other tribes such as the Seminole and Muscogee Creek. Many had succumbed to infectious diseases brought by the Spanish, leaving the land that eventually became Marion County mostly uninhabited.

Freed Slaves

Africans arrived in Florida shortly after Columbus discovered the New World, brought there by the Spanish to help them survive. Some runaway slaves adopted the Seminole Indian way of life and hid in Florida’s swamps. During the Civil War, Union soldiers along Florida’s coast began freeing slaves.

After the war, Marion County’s population changed, with fewer white residents and a growing black population. Freed individuals worked hard to establish their lives. Take for instance one brave woman who took everybody by surprise by choosing to attend medical school. In 1906, Ocala became the proud home of Florida’s first black female doctor, Dr. Effie Carrie Mitchell Hampton.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Callipso88/Shutterstock.com