Orlando To Ocala Florida: How To Get There & Stops To Make!

Are you looking for the best way to get from Orlando to Ocala? If so, you’ve landed on the right article.

In this post, I cover all the top ways to travel to Ocala from Orlando, whether you’re flying into MCO or have spent a few days at Universal Studios, the Magic Kingdom, or the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

I discuss shuttles, bus services, and the top routes for traveling in your own vehicle, plus stops you can make along the way.

Choose the method that best suits your travel style and preferences.

Orlando To Ocala: Distance In Miles And Time 

Ocala is about 79 miles north of Orlando along the Florida Turnpike and Interstate 75.

The journey takes about one hour and fifteen minutes in a personal vehicle.

Is There A Shuttle From Orlando To Ocala?

Yes! If you want to travel from Orlando to Ocala by shuttle, there are multiple options available. 

Going in a shuttle is perfect if you don’t have a vehicle of your own, don’t want to bother with a rental, and need a quick transfer that’s more comfortable and convenient than a bus.

Private transfers from Orlando Airport to Ocala usually take a total travel time of 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Sit back, relax, and let your friendly driver get you from point A to B.

Whether you’re leaving from your Orlando hotel, the Orlando airport, or the Gainesville airport, these shuttle services will make covering the distance a breeze.

While more expensive than going by bus, this way, you won’t have to figure out how to get to the bus station. 

Some shuttle bus companies to consider include Shuttleliner of Ocala, Village Airport Van, and Shuttle Direct.

Orlando To Ocala By Bus: Here Are Your Options

Greyhound, Flixbus, and Red Coach all have bus routes between Orlando and Ocala.

The bus trip usually takes about 1.5 hours on average. However, the fastest bus takes only 1 hour and 5 minutes.

Prices vary between bus companies but expect to pay anywhere between $20 for the cheapest bus tickets and $40 for the more expensive one-way tickets.

Check bus ticket prices and bus schedules at Greyhound, Flixbus, and Red Coach.

Note: The only tricky part about a bus journey is you’ll have to use alternate transport options to get to the Greyhound Station (or wherever you’re leaving from) and then from the Ocala bus station to your final destination.

On the upside, you’ll leave less of a carbon footprint.

What’s The Closest Airport To Both Cities?

The closest airport to Orlando is the Orlando International Airport.

The Orlando Airport (MCO) is just six miles southeast of downtown Orlando and services millions of travelers every year.

It is the busiest airport in Florida. It’s a great choice for flying into Orlando.

If you’re looking to fly into Ocala, the closest commercial airport is the Gainesville Regional Airport, located 35.7 miles away.

It’s ideal for both domestic flights and international flights.

If you have your own airplane, though, Ocala International Airport is your best choice.

It’s just six miles from downtown and is a small, beautiful airport for private air traffic.

Unless you have a private airplane (lucky you), flying from the theme park capital of the world to Ocala isn’t practical. You’re better off taking a shuttle.

Use a search engine to find the best deal for your travel dates.

Driving From Orlando To Ocala: Best Routes To Take

If you have private transportation and are looking for the best route to take from Orlando to Ocala, I have two excellent options for you.

The first is via the Florida Turnpike and I-75 North. It’s the fastest route, but you will have to pay tolls.

If you want to avoid toll roads, you can take an alternate route via Interstate 4 East. However, it will take 45 minutes longer, so keep fuel costs in mind.

Let’s look at each route in more detail.

Route 1: Fastest Route Via Florida’s Turnpike And I-75 N

✅ Advantage: It’s the fastest route with the shortest distance to cover

👎 Disadvantage: You’ll have to pay tolls

⌛️ Time and driving distance: 1 hr 15 min (79.1 miles)

The best route to take from Orlando to Ocala is on the Florida Turnpike and Interstate 75.

To start, get on Florida 408 West. After nine miles, use the right two lanes to take the Florida Turnpike exit toward Ocala.

Stay on the Florida Turnpike for about 42 miles, then merge onto I-75 North.

Take exit 352 to merge onto FL-40 East, also known as West Silver Springs Boulevard. Keep on this road into downtown Ocala.

Route 2: Cheapest Route Via Interstate 4 East

✅ Advantage: You don’t have to pay tolls

👎 Disadvantage: It takes longer than the toll road route

⌛️ Time and driving distance: 1 hr 58 min (87.7 miles)

If you don’t want to pay tolls and enjoy going the scenic route, consider traveling from Orlando to Ocala on Interstate Four East.

To start, get on I-4 E and continue driving for about 17 miles.

Next, use the right two lanes to take exit 101 B-101 C for FL-46 toward Sanford/Mt Dora.

Turn left onto FL-46 West/West Florida 46, following signs for Mount Dora. Continue for about 2 miles.

At each of the following three traffic circles, take the first exit and stay on West Florida 46.

At the fourth traffic circle, take the second exit to stay on West Florida 46.

When you reach the fifth traffic circle, take the first exit once again in order to stay on West Florida 46. After 0.9 miles, turn left to stay on West Florida 46.

After 8.2 miles, turn right onto Fl-44 West. Drive for 4.2 miles, then turn right onto County Rd 439.

In about 1.5 miles, you need to turn left onto County Rd 44A W/Burlington Ave.

In six miles, turn right onto County Rd 452. It will turn into SE Hwy 452. Keep driving until the road hits a T. Turn left onto left onto SE Hwy 42.

Continue on this road for approximately 12.7 miles, then turn right onto US-441 North/US Hwy 27 North.

Continue driving until you reach Ocala.

Are There Any Tolls From Orlando To Ocala?

Yes–there are tolls from Orlando to Ocala. The fastest route between the two cities will take you onto two different toll roads.

The first is FL-408 West, and the second is the Florida Turnpike.

Although it’s possible to avoid tolls by going a different route, keep in mind that the trip will take up to 45 minutes longer so fuel costs will be higher.

What Are At Least 10 Fun Stops To Make Along The Way?

If you are driving from Orlando to Ocala in your own vehicle, it’s a great opportunity to do some sightseeing while you’re en route.

Why not pick one or more stops to add extra interest to your journey?

Besides getting the chance to stretch your legs, you’ll also be making memories road trip style. I call that a win-win.

Here are my ten favorite stops to make along the way.

1. SkyZone Trampoline Park

Get the jitters out before, during, or after your drive with a bouncy stop at Sky Zone Trampoline Park. 

Sky Zones are located all across the United States, from Los Angeles to Fort Myers, and feature freestyle bouncing, fitness classes, and more.

Boiinng up and down on the trampolines, cross hanging ladders, tackle a climbing wall, or dive into a massive pool of squishy blocks.

What better way to work your muscles?

If an important occasion is coming up, this could be the ideal opportunity to celebrate.

There are three different Sky Zone Trampoline Parks between Orlando and Ocala, so you can choose the one that best suits you.

• Sky Zone on Colonial Drive, Orlando

• Clermont Sky Zone

• Sky Zone on College Road, Ocala

2. Citrus Tower

If I had to choose one thing to recommend adding to your travel plans, visiting Citrus Tower in Clermont, Florida, tops the list.

Citrus Tower is a 226-foot-tall tower built in 1956.

It was one of the state’s first and most famous landmarks, thrilling visitors with gorgeous views of the orange groves that used to grow there.

Although the orange groves are all gone, a trip up the elevator is still a treat.

Bask in the air conditioning while enjoying sweeping vistas of the area with its picturesque neighborhoods and beautiful lakes.

Whether it’s your first time up or you’ve been before, I think a stop here is always a good idea.

Plus, you can grab a great cup of coffee once you reach the observation deck. 

Check the website for the updated entrance prices or to reserve tickets for your preferred travel date. The best ticket prices are available to groups.

Visit the Citrus Tower at 141 North Hwy 27, Clermont, FL 34711.

3. Stop In Downtown Clermont

A trip downtown is in order while you’re in Clermont.

The center of this community offers a fun laidback scene complete with souvenir shops, breweries, historic buildings, wine walks, and delicious desserts.

A few locations to check out include:

• Bacchus Vino Etcetera is a wine shop dedicated to making wine fun and accessible.

• Clermont Historic Village Museum is a fascinating museum with tours.

• Ritter’s Frozen Custard is ideal for delicious chilled treats, creative flavors, and freshly made waffle cones.

Whether you take a short walk around the block or spend a couple of hours exploring, downtown Clermont is a great spot to stop in between Orlando and Ocala.

4. Whispering Oaks Winery

Have you ever had blueberry wine? If not, you’re in for a treat! 

Whispering Oaks Winery just off Highway 475, offers delicious blueberry wine with super high antioxidant values.

In fact, it might be healthier than red or white wine. 

Stop by for a tasting and winery tour during tasting room hours.

Catch live music on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, or order a delicious steak on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Whispering Oaks Winery at 10934 S Hwy 475, Oxford, FL 34484.

5. SummerGlen Golf Club

Tee up! It’s time for golf! If you enjoy the game, SummerGlen Golf Club outside Ocala is ready and waiting.

This course offers great value for the money, with beautiful greens, picturesque holes, and plenty of challenges.

The course is in top condition, the staff are friendly, the facilities are nice, and the golfing is reasonably priced. It’s a gem of a golf course.

Address: 1450 SW 154th Street Rd, Ocala, FL 34473

6. Don Garlits Museum Of Drag Racing

Here’s something completely different: a museum dedicated to the history of drag racing!

Enthusiasts of the sport and the general public will both find the museum a fascinating place.

Meander through rooms featuring vintage hot rods, drag-racing cars, engines, and other paraphernalia.

There’s information to read, videos to watch, and interesting anecdotes about Don Garlits and many other racing personalities.

The museum is located outside Ocala at 13700 SW 16th Ave, Ocala, FL 34473.

7. Florida Trail Land Bridge Trailhead

Ready for a unique nature walk or bike ride? Then head to the Florida Trail Land Bridge trailhead.

This is a lovely hiking trail through pretty woods that has interesting views of the highway.

In fact, if you’re on the highway, the land bridge is one of the most recognizable landmarks you’ll encounter–with trees stretching skyward above the interstate.

Learn more about the land bridge hike.

8. Sholom Park

If botanical gardens are up your alley, Sholom Park is a beautiful 44-acre park in Ocala featuring 2 miles of paved trails and over 250 species of trees, shrubs, plants, and flowers.

Lose yourself among the roses, olive trees, azaleas, and in the labyrinth.

The park is a favorite among Ocala residents and visitors who are looking for a quiet place of calm and tranquility.

Address: 7110 SW 80th Ave, Ocala, FL 34481

9. Gypsy Gold Horse Farm Tour

Horses are magnificent creatures, but Gypsy Vanner horses are even more special and unique.

Never heard of them? This is your chance!

Join a Gypsy Gold Horse Farm two-hour tour for a thoroughly enjoyable experience learning about these gorgeous horses.

You’ll hear fascinating stories about this uncommon horse breed, learn some niche Florida history, and meet some of the horses themselves.

As one traveler puts it, “We did the 2-hour tour and loved every minute of it! Dennis’s stories are epic, and Erin is a wonderful and gracious hostess.

Meeting the horses and feeding them carrots were the highlight of my visit to Florida.”

10. Silver Springs

Technically this stop is past Ocala, not en route, but it’s too cool not to include.

I mean, who wouldn’t want to go on a manatee tour? Plus, it’s only a short drive past Ocala.

Besides manatees, there is also the opportunity to see alligators, monkeys, turtles, and a variety of birds.

Final Thoughts: Orlando To Ocala

The trip from Orlando to Ocala only takes about one hour and fifteen minutes via the toll roads.

It’s a quick easy journey with no complicated navigating.

However, you can add extra fun and interest to the journey by adding in some sightseeing as you go.

Stop at Whispering Oaks Winery or the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, stretch your legs on the Florida Trail Land Bridge, or take a tour at Gypsy Gold Horse Farm.

Are you ready to make the trip from Orlando to Ocala?

Additional Central Florida Blogs

Booking a last-minute trip to Orlando or Ocala?  

If so, we have you covered.  

Top Tours in Orlando and Ocala – Viator

Top Rated Hotels & Accommodations – Booking.com

Looking To Get Around In Orlando and Ocala? 

Check out rental car rates here! 🚗