Lakeside equestrian retreat! Experience the unparalled charm of lakeside living combined with equestrian freedom on this property boasting 990 feet of lake frontage. 2-BR/2-BA two-story home with open concept kitchen and living area. Your dream lifestyle awaits!
Beautiful empty lot, perfectly situated amidst granddaddy oak trees. In close proximity to the Florida Greenways and Trails and the Florida Horse Park and just a short drive to WEC, this is a great spot to build your dream home or farm.
$1,675,000
is beautifully updated home is move-in ready and features an impressive open oor plan that captures breathtaking scenery, plus access to premium amenities. Perfect as a permanent residence, weekend getaway, or investment property. 21.12 +/- Acres - Equine Estates
$1,650,000
Surrounded by magni cent oak trees, this 3-BR/3-BA split bedroom oor plan features an expansive living area, large dining room, and seperate sitting room complete with beautiful outdoor views. Center-aisle concrete block barn with 8 stalls is perfect for equestrians.
$799,000
Embrace the beauty of nature on this sprawling 18 +/- acre property adorned with granddaddy oaks. Imagine relaxing on your front porch, enjoying the breathtaking sunsets, or taking advantage of the nearby Greenways and Trails. Existing workshop on property.
Property features main residence with 2-BR/2.5-BA, 3/2 guest residence, and a ve-stall horse barn with an apartment. Paddocks, outdoor lighting, and a re pit. Great opportunity for horse enthusiasts and outdoor lovers, with access to bike and horse riding trails.
You will be amazed by this stunning, resort-style, custom-built smart home nestled on an expansive lot, o ering the ultimate outdoor entertaining lifestyle. Located within the Laurels of Bellechase, this property features a secure 24-hour guarded entrance. Four generously sized bedrooms, plus an o ce, and gourmet kitchen featuring top-of-the-line appliances, beautifully crafted wood cabinetry, and luxurious granite countertops. e family room is designed for both comfort and functionality with stackable sliding glass doors that open to reveal a stunning outdoor oasis, complete with summer kitchen and entertainment area. e home boasts a generously sized game room complete with bar, making it the perfect setting for a pool table. e pool has three entrances, a park-like slide, soothing hot tub, cascading waterfalls, drop down oversized screen and your very own cabana— equipped with poolside seating, a bar area, bath, and smart TV. Property includes a charming 1/1 guest house and a personal gym under 800 SF. Countless additional features await discovery in this must-see residence, and a virtual tour is available to explore. $2,499,000
Laurels of Bellechase
& DINE DOCK
THESE WATERSIDE RESTAURANTS ARE THE PERFECT RETREAT AFTER A SUMMERTIME BOAT DAY.
06 | TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN THE 352 & MORE
A handy guide to get you going and keep you busy this month.
12 | CONCERT SPOTLIGHT
Last-minute tickets and local shows you won’t want to miss.
14 | SKY HIGH ENTERTAINMENT
Explore the science of discovery at MOSI’s new digital dome theatre.
16 | LIGHTING THE WAY
Ready for a road trip? These Florida lighthouses are the perfect summertime destinations.
18 | HEAR US ROAR II
Supporters of Arts in Health Ocala Metro and The Arc of Marion came together for this collaborative fundraiser.
EXPLORE
20 | A DOWNTOWN DESTINATION
Heart of the Park rolls out the welcome mat at Tuscawilla Park.
22 | A SCENIC SANCTUARY
Up close and personal with big cats and more at Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation.
24 | COOL FUN FOR A HOT SUMMER
These indoor adventures o er plenty of ways for the entire family to stay cool this summer.
26 | PARKSIDE FUN
Ocala and Marion County are lled with local parks just waiting to be explored.
LOCATED ON NEARLY 250 ACRES BETWEEN GAINESVILLE AND STARKE, THE CONSERVATION AND EDUCATIONAL FACILITY IS HOME TO ABOUT 100 ANIMALS, INCLUDING 30 RARE AND ENDANGERED SPECIES.
CRAVE
34 | BARGAINS, FOOD & FAMILY FUN
Located in Auburndale is the International Market World Flea and Farmers Market, or what we like to call the mother of all ea markets.
36 | A DOWNTOWN STAPLE
Get a glimpse behind the downtown bar scene with The Tipsy Skipper and Mutiny Ocala’s Buck Martin.
38 | BITE-SIZED BITS
Restaurant news and foodie fun to keep your palate up to date..
ON THE COVER: PHOTO BY SPARK, COURTESY OF VISIT FLORIDA
ONE
KIDS SUMMER FITNESS
THROUGH JULY 31
Join the City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department for energetic sessions to keep the kids active and healthy. Activities include stretching, cardio, strength movements and games—all designed to promote tness in a fun and supportive environment. Sessions take place Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3-3:30pm at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place. Sessions are free and for kids ages 5-17. ocala .gov/recpark
2
THE HUMAN PULSE: BY JOHN ELLIOTT PHOTOGRAPHS
THROUGH JANUARY 18
The new exhibit The Human Pulse: Photographs by John Elliott is on display at the Appleton Museum of Art and features 42 black-and-white prints from the Ocala-based photographer’s ongoing series. Elliott’s project is shaped by his life and travels across 32 countries, capturing the remarkable array of the human experience. Regular admission fees apply to visit. Admission is free on the rst Saturday of each month as part of the Free First Saturday program. The Appleton Museum, Artspace and store are open TuesdaySaturday, 10am-5pm and Sunday, noon-5pm. For more information, visit appletonmuseum.org.
ART IN THE ATTIC
JULY 2-20
Marion Cultural Alliance presents its annual “y-ART” sale, a unique blend of art and yard sale featuring original artwork, jewelry, prints, photographs, memorabilia and more, o ered at deeply discounted prices. This event invites the public to discover creative treasures while supporting the local arts community. The sale takes place at the Brick City Center for the Arts during regular gallery hours, Tuesday-Friday, 10am-5pm, and Saturday, 11am-4pm. Learn more at mcaocala.org
3
COMEDIAN NATALIE CUOMO
JULY 19
Natalie Cuomo, an internationally touring standup comedian, is coming to the Marion Theatre. Her debut album Shut Up You Loved It released by The Stand Comedy Club Records debuted at no. 1 on the iTunes comedy charts. Natalie can be seen on Ink Master: No More Ink! Season 16 on Paramount Plus. Natalie was named a Finalist in New York Comedy Festival’s “New York’s Funniest” Competition in 2024 and one of the festival’s “Comics To Watch” in 2023. Tickets are $30. Purchase yours at mariontheatre.org.
A HANDY GUIDE TO GET YOU GOING AND KEEP YOU BUSY THIS MONTH
5
OCALA CHRISTMAS IN JULY
JULY 19-20
This festive indoor event will bring shoppers a unique selection of handmade gifts, holiday décor, jewelry, and more. Attendees will enjoy photos with Santa, ra e prizes, crafts and plenty of holiday cheer. The event takes place at the World Equestrian Center, Expo Center 1 from 10am-4pm on Saturday and 10am-3pm on Sunday. Tickets are $5, and parking is free. Learn more at bmgevents.com/july.html.
KIDS FUN FEST
JULY 20
This day meant just for kids will take place at the Ocala Downtown Market from 12-4pm. Admission and parking are free. The event features hula hoop contests, knockerball mayhem, kids’ karaoke showdowns, face painting and over 60 kid-friendly vendors. Find the event on Facebook for additional details.
7
BACK TO SCHOOL COMMUNITY GIVEBACK
JULY 26
The main pickup location will be at the College of Central Florida Klein Center, with satellite locations at Heart of Florida Health Center, Friends Recycling Center and participating Marion County schools from 10am1pm. Parents must register students on the registration portal beginning July 1. See the pickup locations and register at ocalafoundation.org/backto-school-community-giveback
DATE NIGHT AT DISCOVERY CENTER: LET’S BUILD!
AUGUST 1
Get your gears turning with this special engineering edition of Date Night at the Discovery Center. Build unique creations with your partner and enjoy light refreshments. Doors open at 6pm, and activities begin at 6:30pm. One $30 ticket admits one couple. Seats are limited, and pre-registration is required for entry. Event is for adults 18+ only. Register at mydiscoverycenter.com
9
BOOK SALE
AUGUST 1-2
Friends of the Ocala Public Library is holding its next clearance book sale beginning on Friday, August 1 for Friends members only (memberships available at the door) from 1:30-3:30pm. Sale then opens to the general public on Saturday, August 2. Held in the Ocala Public Library headquarters meeting rooms. Cash and checks only. Learn more at friendsoftheocalalibrary.org
GIRLS NIGHT: THE MUSICAL AUGUST 9
This O -Broadway hit follows ve friends on a hilarious and heartfelt journey through love, loss and friendship, all set to a soundtrack of favorite hits like “It’s Raining Men,” “I Will Survive” and “Man! I Feel Like a Woman.” It’s Mamma Mia meets Sex and the City—and it’s a party you don’t want to miss. Tickets start at $40, and the show starts at 7:30pm. Purchase tickets at reillyartscenter.com
& MORE 07.25
Community Nights
Wednesdays in July
South Main Station and Heartwood Soundstage in Gainesville host a weekly Community Nights event each Wednesday from 6-9pm. The free event includes a rotating calendar of jams, skillshares, concerts, kids’ activities, lm screenings, arts markets, and food and drink specials. The event takes place at South Main Station, an arts, food and entertainment campus adjacent to Depot Park that spans the SE corner of Main Street and Depot Road. heartwoodsoundstage.com
Open Mic Night at Mutiny Mondays in July
Head to Mutiny on Monday nights between the hours of 9-11pm for a good laugh. This open mic night features some of the funniest comedians in the region. Want to get on stage? Sign up at 8:30pm. The show begins at 9pm, and there is no cover charge. Mutiny is located at 46 S Magnolia Avenue in Ocala. mutinyocala.com
Trivia Night
Tuesdays in July
Grab your friends and get to The Lodge Ocala for all-youcan-eat-wings and trivia night every Tuesday starting at 7pm. thelodgeocala.com
Summer Kids Film Series Through July 27
The Marion Theatre is hosting its Summer Kids Film Series again, through July 27. Movies will
be screened every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 10am, 11am, 12:30pm and 1:30pm each day. Tickets are $5 for adults and children. A summer snack pack is included for children 12 and under, which includes a small popcorn, gummy snacks and a Capri Sun. Movies include The Jungle Book, The Land Before Time, Brave, Dory, Babe, The Incredibles, Inside Out 2 and A Bugs Life. reillyartscenter. com/summer-kids- lm-series
Pickup
Soccer at WEC
Through August 2
Looking for a place to play soccer this summer? Come out for Sports at WEC’s Open Field Play. Adults 18 and older of all abilities can join the fun with pickup games from 5:3010pm indoors in Expo Center 2. Participants must bring their own cleats, ball and gear. Registration and release form required: $30 online in advance, $40 walk-up at the door while space allows. Pickup games will be held twice a week throughout the summer on select Tuesday and Friday evenings, with the nal scrimmage on Saturday, August 2. sportsatwec.com
Appleton Museum Exhibit Through August 3
The Appleton Museum of Art presents What If Eye: Fifty Years of Exploration with Ummarid Eitharong, on view in the rstoor Edith-Marie Gallery. Through more than 50 works, visitors can experience his artistic evolution that has resulted in three distinct bodies of work: pencil portraits and gure drawings, his Military Industrial Art and acrylic paintings. Regular admission fees apply to visit. Admission is free on the rst Saturday of each month as part of the Free First Saturday program. The Appleton Museum, Artspace and store are open TuesdaySaturday, 10am-5pm and Sunday, noon-5pm. appletonmuseum.org
2025 Summer Show Series Through August 10
Head to the World Equestrian Center to enjoy hunter/jumper competitions every week this summer. This year will feature more international competition than ever before and an expanded indoor schedule to keep competitors cool. The lineup includes 10 weeks of U.S. Equestrian (USEF) sanctioned competition and, new for 2025, nine weeks of Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) competition. The nine weeks of international competition will take place in the WEC Grand Arena. The schedule for the complete summer series, which runs from 8am-4pm Wednesday through Sunday each week, is available at worldequestriancenter.com.
Summer Nights Lecture Series
Thursdays through August 14
Explore Ocala and Florida’s interesting past with this free, unique evening lecture series. Delve into our past with new topics each week presented by experts in natural and historical resources. July topics include Steel & Skills, Marion Country Agriculture, Scouting the Skies, Wise Choices and Forgotten Figures. The talks are appropriate for ages 13 and up and run from 6-8pm on Thursdays at Fort King National Historic Landmark. fortkingocala.com
Wonder Lab at Discovery Center Through August 16
This series at the Discovery Center will follow a STEAMcentered theme every week with a complimentary hands-on activity. Drop in during lab hours from 1:30-3:30pm to do a quick and fun activity. The series is free with regular admission price. The Discovery Center is open
Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10am-4pm, with last entry taking place at 3:30pm. Find the Wonder Lab theme schedule at mydiscoverycenter.org.
Bug Squad
Through August 30
Climb on an ant colony, experience what it’s like to y like a dragon y and see if you can escape the giant spider web. These are just a few of the interactive, hands-on exhibits you’ll nd at the Discovery Center’s newest exhibit, Bug Squad, which features superhero bugs and everything fabulous about them. This traveling exhibit, designed to include plenty of sensory experiences, was created by Omaha Children’s Museum and will be on display in Ocala through August 30. General admission to the Discovery Center is $8 per person, and infants 2 and under are free. The center also o ers a whole host of additional fun hands-on learning experiences. For details visit mydiscoverycenter.org.
Art in the Attic 2025 VIP Pre-sale Sip & Shop
July 1
This annual event and sale returns with a special VIP sip and shop opportunity from 5-7pm at the Brick City Center for the Arts in downtown Ocala. The sale runs from July 1-19. The VIP evening will be lled with art, music and plenty of community spirit. The sale bene ts Marion Cultural Alliance. mcaocala.org
Storytime with the Mayor
July 1, August 5
The rst Tuesday of each month, head to the Belleview Community Center at 5pm for a family-friendly story with Belleview Mayor Christine Dobkowski. July 1 is America ABC where you’ll celebrate Independence Day with crafts and meet Slice the pizza guy. The
August 5 book is Cinderella, the Golden Book Edition, and kids will meet Cinderella and Prince Charming. The event is free and open to the public. belleview .org
Tyke Hikes in the Park
July 3
Come make new friends and join City of Ocala Recreation and Parks for an adventure! Tykes age 5 and under will go on weekly mini adventures around the city while exploring nature and learning about our beautiful city parks. This is a free program, and no registration is required. Guardians must stay on-site for the program. This month’s hike will take place from 9-10am at Lillian Bryant Park. ocala .gov/recpark
Fanfares & Fireworks
July 3
Gainesville’s WUFT-FM, WUFTTV and WUFT-Classic presents this evening of live music and spectacular reworks from 6-10pm at the University of Florida Bandshell at Flavet Field. Musical groups include Now Leaving Space, Sooza Brass Band, The Savants and Gainesville Community Band and the Gainesville Pops. The reworks by Skylighters of Florida will begin at approximately 9:30pm. wuft.org/wuft-fanfares- reworks-2025
Happy Birthday America
July 3
The City of Wildwood will host this patriotic celebration, featuring an evening of live music, vendors, a kids’ zone, giveaways, cash bar and a professional reworks display. The fun begins at 6pm with reworks at 9pm. This familyfriendly event is free to attend. Find the event on Facebook for details.
Fourth of July Celebration
July 4
Join the City of Crystal River for a Fourth of July celebration, featuring live music, food trucks, vendors,
games, kids’ activities, beer and wine, all provided by Crystal River Main Street. At the end of the night, don’t miss the amazing reworks show over Kings Bay. The event takes place from 4-9pm at Kings Bay Park. crystalriver .org
All American Celebration
July 4
Celebrate Independence Day in The Villages at Brownwood Paddock Square from 4-9pm. Enjoy free live entertainment by the Jason Brownie Band, resident performance groups, stilt walkers and more. Stroll around the square and immerse yourself in the American culture with market vendors and food trucks. Brownwood restaurants will be o ering delicious bites right outside their storefronts. As you stroll through the square, sample local avors, support your favorite spots, and enjoy an evening lled with music and fun for everyone. thevillagesentertainment.com
Patriotic Celebration
July 4
Celebrate Independence Day outdoors at The Town Square at Circle Square Commons from 4:30-9:30pm. Gates open at 4pm. The event is open to the public and includes live music, dancing, food trucks, beverage kiosk, photo kiosk and reworks. Parking is $20, cash only. Bring your own lawn chairs to enjoy the event. circlesquarecommons.com
Iggy’s 4 on the Fourth Freedom Run
July 4
Kick o the Fourth of July holiday with a four-mile run through the heart of Ocala while honoring our nation’s heroes and our country at the same time. To sign up, head to runsignup.com. The event begins at Veteran’s Memorial Park, and you can nd more information on the run’s Facebook page.
VIP Firework Viewing Party
July 4
Fireworks are coming back to Tuscawilla Park this summer. Limited space is available for this VIP opportunity to enjoy the reworks from the best spot on the lake. Your adult VIP ticket includes exclusive access to Midtown Station for the evening, food from every Midtown Station vendor, two alcoholic drinks, bathrooms, A/C and a covered patio view of the reworks show at 9:30pm. The evening runs from 6-11pm, and live music will run from 6-9pm. midtownstation.ticketspice. com/fourth-of-july-party
July 4th at Eaton’s Beach
July 4
Head to Eaton’s Beach Sandbar & Grill on Lake Weir for a patriotic celebration, featuring food and drink specials all day and a perfect view of the reworks over the lake at dusk. Drink specials include $7 sangrias and $4 Florida lagers. Wristbands for the event are $10, and kids 10 and under are free with an adult purchase. VIP tables are also available. Proceeds support the Wounded Warrior Project fundraiser. Email juli@eatonsbeach.com for more information.
Patriotic Skies
July 4
Hosted by the City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department in partnership with Ocala Main Street, this free, family event begins with live music, a fun- lled kids’ zone packed with games and activities, and plenty of food vendors serving up both savory and sweet bites. Don’t forget to bring your blankets and chairs for the reworks display at dark. The evening runs from 6-10pm. See the full schedule at ocala .gov/recpark.
Homeschool Hub— Fitness & Sports Fun
July 9
On the second Wednesday of
each month between 10am-2pm head to the Belleview Community Center to connect with other homeschool kiddos and their families. Each month features a new enrichment theme, complete with workshops and hands-on activities. The July 9 event will feature sports clinics and teambuilding activities to promote health and teamwork. Space is limited for this free event, and registration is required to secure your spot. To register, email rvass@belleview .org.
Girls’ Night Out
July 12
This high-energy shopping and socializing event will feature products and services tailored just for the ladies, including art, jewelry, clothing, sweets and more. There will be nearly 100 Central Florida vendors, plus unique onthe-spot experiences to enjoy. DJ Rae Bae will be playing all your favorite girl-power anthems. There will be plenty of photo ops, including a free photo booth by Legacy Rhythm Entertainment and South Pine Décor. There will also be ra e giveaways and food trucks on-site. Plenty of vendors will feature interactive services, like fairy hair, permanent jewelry, chair massages, hat bars and more. The event is rain or shine, and admission is free. The market runs from 6-9pm at the Ocala Downtown Market. Find the event on Facebook for details.
Silent Wings: The Daring Glider
Pilots of WWII
July 17
Master the Possibilities learning center will o er this talk from 10am-noon. The class will discuss how U.S. glider pilots spearheaded major World War II invasions in concert with Allied forces, delivering thousands of troops into combat. The class
is $5 for members and $10 for the public. Register online. masterthepossibilities.org
Friday Foodie Fest
July 18
The City of Belleview hosts its Friday Foodie Fest every third Friday of the month from 5-9pm at Lake Lillian. In addition to the popular vendors marketplace, food trucks, face painting and in atable games. This season’s new additions include a blood drive at every event, free child ID cards for families, a booth by the Belleview Chamber of Economic Partnership and an opportunity to speak with the City of Belleview’s Development Services Department. belleview .org
Beetlejuice Jr.
July 18-20
The Academy at Ocala Civic Theatre will present Beetlejuice Jr, performed by youth ages 9-17. In Beetlejuice Jr, the frightfully funny musical based on the beloved motion picture turned Broadway phenomenon, Lydia Deetz is a strange and unusual teenager, still grieving the loss of her mother and obsessed with the whole “being dead thing.” Lucky for Lydia, she and her father move to a new house haunted by a recently deceased couple and Beetlejuice, a delightful demon with a real zest for life. When Lydia calls on Beetlejuice to scare away anyone with a pulse, this double-crossing specter shows his true stripes, unleashing a world of pandemonium. ocalacivictheatre.com
Zookeeper Day
July 19
Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo will be celebrating and showcasing its incredible student zookeepers and the amazing work they do from 9am-3pm. Participate in activities to see if you have what it takes to be a zookeeper, meet the animal ambassadors, enjoy keeper
talks, training demonstrations and meet with representatives from other zoos and conservation organizations represented by graduates from the Zoo Animal Technology program. Tickets are only available at the gate the day of the event, and admission is $10 for adults, $6 for children ages 4-12 and free for children 3 and under. sfcollege.edu/zoo
Doggone Good Reading
July 19
Children in grades rst through fth are invited to come read to a Humane Society of Marion County dog at 11am and 1pm. Class is for one hour and starts promptly. A parent/guardian must accompany the child and stay at the shelter (in a separate area) while the child reads. Register in advance at thehsmc.org/doggone-goodreading-program
Meeting New Furr-ends With
HSMC
July 19
Join the Humane Society of Marion County for their new cat event for children ages 10-15. Children ages 10, 11 and 12 are invited to attend from 2:303pm, and children ages 13, 14 and 15 will be from 3-3:30pm. HSMC will provide treats, toys, cat-nip and more for your friend, and drinks and comfy blankets will be provided for the kids. Find the event on Facebook for registration details.
BECAUSE
Heroes Wanted: The Rumble of the Royals
July 19
The Storytelling Knights are coming back to the Marion County Library Headquarters for another epic adventure. The event is a fantasy-themed journey into the world of tabletop gaming as attendees travel to the Land of WWE: Wizards, Warlocks, and Elves for a Rumble of the Royals. The event is free to attend and open to all ages and experience levels. Two sessions will be held, each lasting about an hour: 10am and 11am. Find the event on Facebook to register.
Kids Market at Marley Mae Mezzanine
July 20
Marley Mae Market in downtown Ocala is hosting its rst kids’ market from 11am-3pm in the second oor mezzanine space. All vendors will be under 18, and the young entrepreneurs will be selling their handmade goods or promoting their small businesses. Kids interested in being a vendor can nd more information at marleymaedesigns.com/ kidsmarket.
Women’s Luncheon
July 22
stand-up comedy event featuring three talented and hilarious comics. The event takes place at the Marion Theatre at 7:30pm. Headliner Chris Buck, feature comedian Will Blaylock and host Manny Gacet will perform. Guests must be 21+ to attend. reillyartscenter.com
Dueling Pianos Uncensored
July 26
This month’s Ocala Christian Women’s Connection luncheon will take place at the Country Club of Ocala from 11:30am-1:30pm. The featured topic will be the Patriot Service Dogs & The WOOF Program, and the speaker will be Jo Wright speaking on “Is Anyone Out There Perfect?” The cost to attend is $28, and prepaid reservations are required and must be made by June 16. Call Barb at (612) 810-0022 or Bonnie at (407) 314-8313 to purchase tickets.
Sit Down for Stand Up
July 25
You won’t want to miss this live
Experience an electrifying night of musical mayhem with the new late-night dueling pianos show at the NOMA Black Box at the Reilly Arts Center. Unleash your wild side on the dance oor as talented pianists engage in hilarious and unpredictable musical mashups while cocktail servers dish up your favorite drinks. Get ready for a night of laughter, outrageous requests and a high-energy, adults-only atmosphere that’ll leave you begging for an encore. The show begins at 9pm, and tickets are $30. Purchase tickets at reillyartscenter.com.
History, Prisoners and Escapes of Famous Island Prisons
July 28
Master the Possibilities learning center will o er this talk from 1:30-3pm. The talk will discuss Devil’s Island, Pantelleria, Château d’If of Île d’If and Alcatraz—all famous island prisons—and the backstory of what life was like in these prisons. The class is $16 for members and $21 for the public. Register online. masterthepossibilities.org
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
AN EVENING WITH HERE COME THE MUMMIES
REILLY ARTS CENTER
Get ready to have your brain bent and your face melted—Here Come the Mummies are bringing their “Terrifying Funk from Beyond the Grave” to the stage! This eight-piece band of 5,000-year-old Egyptian mummies delivers a wild, high-energy show packed with funk, rock and pure mayhem. Don’t miss the mystery, the music and the madness—Here Come the Mummies!
HEAR HERE
SANDRA & ALEX LEKID
July 4
Infinite Ale Works at Midtown Station
THE MUDDS
July 5
La Cuisine
ZAC PETTY
July 5
Bank Street Patio Bar
JACK KNIFE
July 11
Charlie Horse
THE BIG BAD
July 12
Oxford Downs Tiki Bar
NOAH HUNTON
July 18
Swampy’s Bar& Grille
BECKY BABY & SWING THEORY
July 19
One Love Café
BILLY BUCHANAN
July 24
Circle Square Commons
KENNADEE
July 27
Horse & Hounds
HOUSTON KEEN
July 27
Eaton’s Beach
TICKETS PLEASE
KATY PERRY
August 22
Amalie Arena, Tampa
LITTLE BIG TOWN
August 22
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre at the FL State Fairgrounds, Tampa
THE WEEKND
August 24
Camping World Stadium, Orlando
BLINK-182
August 29
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre at the FL State Fairgrounds, Tampa
TATE MCRAE
September 13-14
Kia Center, Orlando
BENSON BOONE
September 16
Kia Center, Orlando
SING OUT LOUD FESTIVAL
September 20-21
Francis Field, St. Augustine
CHRIS BROWN
September 30
Camping World Stadium, Orlando
BRANDON LAKE
October 3
Kia Center, Orlando
JONAS BROTHERS
October 22
Amalie Arena, Tampa
October 26
Kia Center, Orlando
LOCAL LIVE &
Dance Party with Latin Ambition
Jul 12 | Circle Square Cultural Center
The music never stops from the moment this bilingual act kicks into party mode! Delivering a fast-paced, DJ-style approach to live music, this show o ers something for every member of the crowd, including salsa, merengue, Motown, top 40, rock, pop, Bachata, Latin jazz, reggaetón and everything in between.
Dueling Pianos
Jul 26 | NOMA Black Box at the Reilly Arts Center
Grab a seat at a café table and enjoy dueling pianos, cocktails and an evening of fun with friends. The event features singalong classics of soft rock and pop that spans decades. Guests will be seated at tables of four or six, so bring a group of friends or meet someone new!
Boys In The Band—
The Alabama Tribute
Aug 2 | Orange Blossom Opry Hailing from Alabama, Boys in the Band aims to give the Alabama experience to lifelong fans and introduce younger generations to their timeless music. It’s an energetic concert with note-for-note renditions of Alabama’s shows over their 50-year reign as the greatest country music group of all time.
Photo courtesy of The Reilly Arts Center
SKY HIGH ENTERTAINMENT
EXPLORE THE SCIENCE OF DISCOVERY AT MOSI’S NEW DIGITAL DOME THEATRE.
Summer in Florida presents unique challenges. You can’t spend every waking moment at the pool or beach, so come July and August, many of us are looking for ways to escape the heat and humidity.
Just a short drive from Ocala, the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) in Tampa o ers an ideal solution with a variety of indoor entertainment options. You don’t have to be a kid to have a blast.
MOSI has over 40,000 square feet of hands-on interactive activities and educational exhibits, but the highlight is their new eight-story digital dome theatre, which opened in April. Not only does the theatre feature stateof-the-art technology, but with ve di erent shows daily, you can literally spend an entire day in air-conditioned comfort learning, laughing and relaxing.
MOSI’s original IMAX theatre closed in 2017, and this new rendition is a radical improvement.
“The old IMAX theater used one projector out of the center of the room,” says MOSI CEO John Graydon Smith. “The new technology has 10 high-powered, digital projectors in di erent parts of the dome that work together to make one huge image.”
Those projectors provide incredibly bright, sharp images on the 10,000-square-foot, curved NanoSeam screen, which is the second largest dome
BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND
screen in the country.
The MOSI digital dome theater is home to the Saunders Planetarium and seats about 350 people. Guests enjoy the live astronomer-led planetarium experience, which can recreate the night sky anywhere in the world at any time in history.
“Now because of the evolution
of technology, you can see a planetarium show, a domed movie and a laser music show in the same seat. We have a laser music projector and do themed shows in the evening, so watch the website for the nighttime music shows,” John notes.
“We have a lot more adults
without kids visiting and coming for multiple shows because shows change throughout the day. We have food and a full bar on-site, so you can make a whole day out of it,” he adds. “If you come in a family unit, there are activities for all ages, and it’s also popular with retirees.”
MOSI is open from 10am-5pm daily. Admission is $20 adults and $15 for ages 3-17. Admission includes one planetarium show in the digital dome theatre. Additional shows are just $5. Each show experience is 45-60 minutes long.
New events are added regularly, so check the website to plan your visit.
MOSI
4801 E FOWLER AVENUE, TAMPA (813) 987-6000 mosi.org
Photos courtesy of MOSI
LIGHTING THE WAY
THESE FLORIDA LIGHTHOUSES ARE THE PERFECT SUMMERTIME DESTINATIONS.
Lighthouses are quintessential Florida, but as a Floridian, there are probably many you’ve never visited. We’ve rounded up some of our favorites throughout the state for the perfect mix of history and summertime beach getaway.
Ponce de Leon
Lighthouse & Museum
Located in Ponce Inlet, just north of New Smyrna Beach, the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse—originally known as the Mosquito Inlet Light Station— was constructed in 1887 and has been guiding mariners along Florida’s Atlantic coast for more than 135 years. As Florida’s tallest lighthouse, from the base to the tip
of the lightning rod, the lighthouse is 188 feet 6.5 inches in height. Visitors can explore the lighthouse and museum on their own or take a guided tour. ponceinlet.org
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Completed in 1874 and standing 165 feet tall, visitors can climb the 219 steps to the observation deck for a unique view of Florida’s oldest city. In the museum, walk through the historic keepers’ house and learn about shipwreck artifacts from the American Revolution and watch history being made at the heritage boatworks. staugustinelighthouse.org
Hillsboro Lighthouse
In operation since 1907, the Hillsboro Lighthouse, located in Pompano Beach, was originally constructed in Detroit, Michigan, before being disassembled and shipped via Lake Erie, Lake Michigan, Mississippi River, the Gulf, around Key West and nally north to the Hillsboro Inlet for a total of 4,000 nautical miles. The tour consists of a boat ride to and from the lighthouse grounds, touring the grounds and the ability to climb the lighthouse. Check the website for tour dates and times. hillsborolighthouse.org
Cape San Blas Lighthouse
Cape San Blas, located in the Panhandle east of Panama City,
BY MELISSA PETERSON
is a 750-acre section of land that juts out into the Gulf. After more than 100 years of damage from erosion and hurricanes, in 2014, the Cape San Blas Lighthouse, two keepers’ quarters and oil shed were relocated to Core Park in Port St. Joe to preserve each structure. In 2015, the Cape San Blas Lighthouse District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. capesanblaslight.org
Crooked River Lighthouse
Built on its current site in 1895, the Crooked River Lighthouse, located in Carrabelle in the Panhandle, is a 103-foot lighthouse with 128 steps to the observation deck. At the Kepper’s House Museum, visitors can see the lighthouse’s original Fourth Order Fresnel lens fabricated in 1894 in Paris, France. Other exhibits include a historical setting of the early 1900s, examples of lighthouse beacons through the years and the methods of constructing a skeletal tower lighthouse.
crookedriverlighthouse.com
Cape St. George Light Museum & Gift Shop
First built in 1833 and rebuilt in 1848 and 1852 on what is now Little St. George Island in the Panhandle, the lighthouse finally succumbed to beach erosion and collapsed into the Gulf in 2005. The original materials were collected, the original plans were obtained from the National Archives in Washington, D.C. and the lighthouse was reconstructed on St. George Island. Visitors can learn about the lighthouse at the museum before climbing the 92 wooden spiral stairs to the watch room before proceeding through a narrow brick scuttle hole to reach the lantern room. stgeorgelight.org
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum
St. Marks Lighthouse
The St. Marks Lighthouse, located in Florida’s Big Bend area at the St. Marks Wildlife Refuge, has been guiding vessels to the mouth of the St. Marks River for over a century and a half. The structure consists of the keepers’ house attached to the 88-foot tower. The 85 spiral steps extend up to the lantern room. From 1867 until 2014 the lantern room contained a Fourth Order Fresnel lens. Over the years, oil, kerosene and electricity have powered the lamp, which can be seen in the range of 12-14 miles, depending on light conditions. stmarksrefuge.org/ stmarks-lighthouse
Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Climb 177 steps up the historic Pensacola Lighthouse for one of the most beautiful views on the Gulf Coast. Built in 1859, the lighthouse is located within Naval Air Station Pensacola and is an active U.S. Coast Guard aid to navigation. General admission guests can climb the historic lighthouse tower and explore the exhibits in the Richard C. Callaway Museum, housed in the restored 1869 keeper’s quarters. Because the lighthouse is located on an active Naval Air Station, be sure to visit the website for information on required identi cation and hours. pensacolalighthouse.org
Cape Florida Light
Located inside Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park in Key Biscayne,
the Cape Florida Light is the oldest structure in Miami-Dade. First erected in 1825, the Cape Florida Light has survived nearly 200 years of erosion, dozens of hurricanes, an attack by native Seminole Native Americans and an explosion of lantern oil and gun powder. Visitors to the park can climb the 109 stairs for views of Key Biscayne, Miami Beach and the Atlantic Ocean. oridastateparks.org
Jupiter Inlet
Lighthouse & Museum
In 1853, Congress authorized the building of a lighthouse near Jupiter Inlet, and construction on the 108-foot lighthouse, oil house and keepers’ house was completed in 1860. Ownership of the lighthouse and former Coast Guard station was transferred to the Bureau of Land Management in 2019. The lighthouse remains an active public Aid to Navigation, with one of only
13 active First-Order Fresnel lenses in the entire United States. Visitors can climb the lighthouse and explore the on-site exhibits or take a guided tour of the keepers’ house, explore the Native American history of the area or immerse yourself in the military history of the lighthouse. jupiterlighthouse.org
Egmont Key Lighthouse
Accessible only by boat from the St. Petersburg area, Egmont Key State Park has a unique natural and cultural history, including the lighthouse that has stood since 1858. Several ferries and private boat tours o er rides to the island, including the ferry from Fort De Soto Park. Although you can’t go inside the lighthouse during regular visiting hours (visiting during special events is sometimes an option), spending a day on Egmont Key is still worth a visit. Primarily a wildlife refuge, it’s the perfect place to collect shells
while strolling the secluded, pristine beaches and enjoy swimming, shing, wildlife viewing and picnicking. oridastateparks.org
Alligator Reef Sanctuary Preservation Area
Lighthouse
One of the more secluded and unique lighthouses on our list, the Alligator Reef Lighthouse is another that is only accessible by boat, as it’s located four and a half miles east of Indian Key near Islamorada in the shallow waters o the Florida Keys. The iconic black and white lighthouse, operational since 1873, was a vital maritime navigational aid that warned ships of the shallow coral reefs. Named after the USS Alligator, a Navy vessel that sank on the reef in 1822, snorkelers and divers are common visitors to the reef, which, in some parts, is at a depth of only 8 feet. oridakeys. noaa.gov/zones/spas/alligator.html
Alligator Reef Sanctuary Preservation Area Lighthouse
Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
HEAR US ROAR II
JUNE 13 AT OCALA CIVIC THEATRE
SBY JUSTIN MACDONALD
upporters of Arts in Health Ocala Metro and The Arc of Marion came together for this collaborative fundraiser to support client arts programs promoting self-esteem and wellness. Attendees enjoyed a live, sing-along style performance with Arc clients onstage with acclaimed AIHOM musicians. Paintings created by the Arc clients during workshops were also on display and for sale. VIP guests enjoyed sparkling wine and light hors d’oeuvres as well as early access to view and purchase Arc client paintings. Learn more about AIHOM at aihocala.org and The Arc at arcmarion.org
Jaye Baillie & Diane Palmer
Rachel & Andrew Wire
Becky & Joe London
Brandon Dull & Dani Fee
Laurie Zink & Greg Thompson
Jon & Joanne Ohlman, Alina Stoothoff
Mike & Heather Blouch
Caroline Schapansky & Madelyn Covington
Bob & Betsy DeClerc
GET STRETCH’D
Day-to-day life, stress and aging all take a toll on your body. Whether you’re dealing with aches and pains, a job that keeps you at a desk, strenuous athletic activities or a demanding schedule that creates both physical and mental stress, one-on-one assisted stretching can provide you with vital relief and both immediate and long-term solutions. Stretching is a necessity for range of motion, exibility and preventing imbalances that can cause issues like sciatica, back, knee and hip pain.
Get Stretch’d, Ocala’s premier, family-owned stretching studio located in Churchill Square Shopping Center, next to Publix, as well as Zone West Health & Fitness at Market Street at Heath Brook Shopping Center, can address those issues and get you feeling your best. If you’d like to see a quick YouTube video of an assisted stretch demo, scan the QR code in this ad.
+ STIMULATES INCREASED CIRCULATION
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A DOWNTOWN DESTINATION
HEART OF THE PARK ROLLS OUT THE WELCOME MAT AT TUSCAWILLA PARK.
History plays a role as the revitalization of downtown continues with the opening of Heart of the Park in July.
The aptly named structure is the former American Legion Building, a nearly 10,000-squarefoot brick edi ce that Ocala Main Street acquired from the City of Ocala in November 2023. An open house was held on May 15, 2025.
“We have been working on Heart of the Park over a year,” says Jessica Fieldhouse, executive director of Ocala Main Street. “It was built in 1933, so we’re saving the building and creating a new use for this historic property as a community hub in the center of the downtown community.”
Located adjacent to the lake and just south of the tennis courts, Heart of the Park will make it easier for people to enjoy time at Tuscawilla Park.
At the Corner Store, you can buy snacks and beverages— including beer and wine—or even items like frisbees and shing poles. Shop inside or get service from the walk-up window on the large outdoor deck, which o ers a perfect spot to relax outdoors.
In addition to daily programs and activities for all ages, there will be rotating museum exhibits in the main part of the ballroom.
“The model for this was Depot Park in Gainesville,” says Jessica. “We’re hoping to increase foot
BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND
by
tra c and focus on connectivity between the Reilly Center and downtown. We’re creating more opportunities for folks to visit Tuscawilla Park on a daily basis.”
Doors o cially open for the rst time at the soft opening on July 4 as Tuscawilla Park hosts the reworks display “Patriotic Skies” from 6-10pm.
“We will be hosting a VIP experience for Heart of the Park that night to kick things o , and we’ll open to the general public on July 5,” says Jessica.
We have been working on Heart of the Park over a year. It was built in 1933, so we’re saving the building and creating a new use for this historic property as a community hub in the center of the downtown community.
Jessica Fieldhouse Executive Director, Ocala Main Street
Heart of the Park will host daily activities, with the first classes starting on July 5. On the agenda are health and wellness events, kids’ crafts and more. Building space will also be available to rent for events, making it ideal for civic groups.
“It’s a natural t for the location being in the heart of the park,” says Jessica. “It really is a community hub; we want people to use the building and take advantage of the amenities.”
To nd out what’s happening, check the calendar of events at heartoftheparkocala.com.
TUSCAWILLA PARK
800 NE SANCHEZ AVENUE, OCALA
Photos
Mark Anderson Photos
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A SCENIC SANCTUARY
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH BIG CATS AT CARSON SPRINGS WILDLIFE CONSERVATION.
BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND
Cheetahs, tigers, leopards, lions, hyenas and more all in the same place at the same time? If that sounds impossible, you just don’t know where to go.
Fortunately, Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation is right in our backyard and o ers amazing opportunities to see these impressive wild critters up close and personal.
Carson Springs is as “un-zoolike” as it comes. With no concrete in sight, all enclosures feature large, grassy areas with native vegetation so animals can engage in natural behavior. It’s a wildlife park where educational tours allow people to visit the animals in their homes.
Located on nearly 250 acres between Gainesville and Starke, the conservation and educational facility is home to about 100 animals, including 30 rare and endangered species.
The very fact that such a sanctuary exists is due to the passionate dedication of founders and owners Barry and Christine Janks.
Speedy Cats
It all started with cheetahs.
Originally from Chicago, Barry and Christine were in the Thoroughbred breeding and racing business. Besides racehorses, cheetahs had always been one of Christine’s favorite animals.
Right before 9/11, the Janks booked a trip to South Africa to visit De Wildt Cheetah Trust, a cheetah-breeding facility. After that experience, they began helping the facility owner fundraise in the United States for cheetah conservation.
“We were still living in the U.S. but ended up buying a farm in South Africa where we could house and relocate problem cheetahs, so the farmers didn’t kill them,” says Christine, noting that their farm also had a tourism component.
In 2007, the Janks had to decide whether to move to South Africa permanently to run that farm or to build a similar operation in the Gainesville area
on land Christine had bought in the late 1970s. They took the Florida option, intending to create a sanctuary that would both help animals and educate visitors.
“Educating people is the only thing that will save the animals,” says Christine, adding that when people have an emotional connection, they want to help preserve at-risk and endangered species.
Retiring from the horse business allowed the Janks to dedicate all their time and e ort to their nonpro t organization, Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation (CSWCF). They got their rst animal, a serval cat, in 2008 and opened for tours in 2010.
CSWCF is licensed by the
Photos by Rafael Hernandez courtesy of Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation
USDA and Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. All tigers and lions at the sanctuary were relocated by Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission and/or USDA or transferred from bankrupt facilities. Some animals were con scated by Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission or are retired from zoo-breeding programs. Unless an animal is in an international survival breeding program, they’re at the sanctuary for life.
“We are one of only a handful of successful cheetah breeders in the U.S.,” Christine notes.
Take A Tour
The sanctuary isn’t open for general admission, so you must be on a prebooked tour to visit. Tours are only scheduled for mornings, as that’s when the animals are most active.
Among the most popular is the Walking Tour, which takes place at 10am every Saturday.
During this two-hour tour, which is guided by a professional zoologist, you’ll get a close-up experience with 30 di erent endangered species—about 100 animals total. Included are rare
species that people often don’t get to see, such as cheetahs, Siberian lynx, clouded leopard, caracal, Sulcata tortoise, two-toed sloth and more.
You’ll hear the animals’ personal stories and also learn critical information about preserving their species. Big cat-feeding
demonstrations are always a highlight of the tour.
Walking tours take place on hard-packed grass, which is wheelchair and stroller friendly. If you prefer to ride, you can reserve a wildlife-themed scooter or golf cart. (Limited availability. Book quickly.)
In addition to the weekly walking tours, private tours can be scheduled for corporate events, family reunions, eld trips and large groups. Email Christine directly at contact@cswildlife.org for details about scheduling a private tour.
“We are totally funded by donations; we get no state or federal funding, so having the public come for tours is a necessary money stream,” says
Christine, adding that 100 percent of donations goes to animal care and conservation.
The Janks are the sanctuary’s largest personal donors. They take no salary and donate all their work and time because of their commitment to the animals.
“We spend all our money and time here,” says Christine. “The heartwarming feeling we get every day by being with animals who trust us is the biggest reward. They know their names and come when called. It’s magical and feeds your soul.”
CARSON SPRINGS WILDLIFE CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
8528 E COUNTY RD 225, GAINESVILLE (352) 468-2827
carsonspringswildlife.org
Walking tour: $45 adults, $15 ages 2-11 Tours must be pre-booked and paid online
COOL FUN FOR A HOT SUMMER
There’s no denying that it’s hot outside! Sure, the pool and the beach are great options for cooling o . Sometimes, though, you just need the comfort of A/C. We get that! Check out some of our favorite, inexpensive, indoor family fun options for when the summer heat has you beat.
Kid Flicks
There’s still time to catch the Kids Summer Film Series at the Marion Theatre this summer. Check out some of your favorite lms on the big screen. Tickets are $5 for adults and children and include a summer snack pack for children 12
and under complete with popcorn, gummy snacks and a Capri Sun. Babe will run from July 2-12, The Incredibles July 2-13, Inside Out 2 July 16-26 and A Bug’s Life July 16-27. mariontheatre.org
Games Galore
Just a short drive away is a smorgasbord of kid- avored fun. Dave & Buster’s in Gainesville features an arcade with tons of games, including 10 brand-new ones to try out! Plus, experience the new Human Crane, where you’ll y across the pit, reaching for fun prizes. There’s also billiards, food, plenty of TVs to catch your favorite team and
more! Wednesdays is half-price games day, so keep that in mind! daveandbusters.com
Incredible Insects
Make your way to the Discovery Center at Tuscawilla Park to take in the newest exhibit, Bug Squad This hands-on, interactive exhibit immerses kids into a ctitious world ruled by superhero bugs. The exhibit runs through August 30. Through August 16, visitors can also take part in the DC Wonder Lab series, which features a new STEAM-centered theme every week with a complimentary hands-on activity. Drop in from 1:30-3:30pm for a quick and
fun activity. The series is free with admission. The Discovery Center is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10am-4pm, with last entry taking place at 3:30pm. mydiscoverycenter.com
Aaaargh, Who Goes There?
The Pirate & Treasure Museum may be located in St. Augustine, but it’s worth the drive. Get ready to sail the Seven Seas by exploring more than 800 authentic pirate artifacts. Just a hop, skip and jump from the Castillo de San Marcos fort, you’ll have to add that to your itinerary as well. The museum is open 10am-7pm daily. thepiratemuseum.com
Doodle Day
Take your creative kid to the Cade Museum for a Design + Doodle Lab July 11, 18 or 25, or August 1 or 8. This summer art pop-up runs from 10am-4pm and allows kids to take part in a variety of art projects designed to inspire imagination through hands-on exploration. Want to create on your own? Head to an open art station, and have at it! While there, check out the other exhibits and labs the museum has to o er. cademuseum.org
Be An Escape Artist
Try one of Ocala’s escape rooms designed speci cally for family fun. Huddy’s Escape o ers the Candyshop, where Mr. McGuire’s treats are second to none. You have just one hour to discover the secret hidden within his sugary delights. Visit huddysescape.com for details. The Ocala Escape o ers Mr. Elegoo’s Enchanted Emporium, a whimsical world where magic and mischief collide as escape artists work to collect Mr. Elegoo’s four prized dragon eggs that have mysteriously gone missing. Learn more at theocalaescape.com.
Movie Day
Who doesn’t love a good movie day during the summer? Plenty of family-friendly icks are on tap for release this summer, including Smurfs on July 18 and Freakier Friday on August 8. In Smurfs, Papa Smurf is taken by the evil Gargamel and Smurfette launches a mission to the real world to rescue him. Following the original Freaky Friday, it’s been 22 years since Tess and Anna switched bodies for a day. Now Anna has a daughter of her own, and they are discovering lightning may strike twice. Superhero fans will love The Fantastic Four: First Steps, releasing on July 25. The Four must defend Earth from Galactus and the Silver Surfer. Bad Guys 2, with a release date of August 1, has these bad guys turned good tempted to do “one last job” when The Bad Girls, a group of criminal fans, encourage them to be bad once again. To read more about these lms, visit imdb.com.
Bowl A Strike
Bowlero’s Summer Season Pass o ers youngsters two free bowling games, plus shoe rental, per day all summer long. The Basic Pass, at $49.99, is valid at one location and includes bowling shoe rental. The Premium Pass, for $64.98, is valid at all participating locations, includes two games and shoe rental each day per pass holder, a $5 arcade reload and 15 percent o food and nonalcoholic beverages. Find out the
details and purchase your pass at bowlero.com.
Make It & Take It
Whether your creative kid likes to paint pottery or canvases or craft and decorate wooden accessories, Ocala has several make-and-take art studios that are perfect for a hot summer day. Picasso’s Palette lets you choose from pre- red pottery items to decorate and paint yourself. Canvas stencil designs, a pottery wheel and other creative opportunities are also available. Check out picassospalette.com for class and walk-in opportunities. The AR Workshop o ers a Craft Bar Wednesdays through Saturdays, and walk-ins are welcome to come and create from a variety of craft mediums, including wood signs, doormats, chunky knits, candle
pouring, hat burning and more. Visit arworkshop.com for details.
Bounce The Day Away
If you’re little one needs to burn o some energy, head to Bounce N Play in Ocala. This sportsplex features a huge indoor playground with in atables and more. There is also a pool table, dress-up area, arcade games, a magnetic tile station, an area for the littlest littles and more. Now under new ownership, try your skills at the ninja course or climb 20 feet to the top of the tallest slide. There’s something for every age group! bouncenplayocala.com
Curl Up With A Book
Head to one of the Marion County Public Library branches to check out some much-needed reading material. The various branches
o er all kinds of summer fun, from pajama parties and teen clubs to craft sessions and critter corner days. Check out the complete calendar of events for each library location at library.marion .org
Play A Game!
Meeple Movers is a unique board game café that o ers a library of more than 300 games to choose from. Stay and play at the café using one of their comfy seating arrangements, or you can even participate in the game rental program and take a game home to try before you buy. Kids 12 and under are free with a paying adult, and adults are admitted for just $7 each. Join the membership program where VIGs—Very Important Gamers—rent games for free. Find a list of events and more info at meeplemovers.com
PARKSIDE FUN
OCALA AND MARION COUNTY ARE FILLED WITH LOCAL PARKS JUST WAITING TO BE EXPLORED. BY
Looking for fun ways to enjoy our community’s local parks? Here are 17 ideas to add to your summer bucket list.
1. The splash pad at Citizens’ Circle in downtown Ocala, Lily’s Splash Pad at Lillian Bryant Park and Wilma Loar Splash Pad on NW 17th Place in Belleview are open for business. Grab a towel and some sunscreen, and cool o with fun water features and sprays. ocala .gov/recpark and belleview .org
2. For a deeper dip, the Jervey Gantt (SE 36th Avenue) and Hampton (NW Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.) Aquatic Fun Centers are open for summer splashing. ocala .gov/recpark
3. Musicians, from beginners to experts, can come together for an evening of music at the Forest Community Center at Sandhill Park. From 5:30-7:30pm this Forest Jam invites you to play along or just enjoy classic bluegrass, country and Americana music. For details, call (352) 438-2840.
4. The Reading with the Rangers program will take place July 11 at Heritage Nature Conservancy, July 18 at Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place and July 25 at Citizens’ Circle. Don’t forget to pack a snack
and a blanket or chair to enjoy story time. ocala .gov/recpark
5. Every Wednesday put on your dancin’ shoes and head to line dance lessons from 6-8pm at the Forest Community Center at Sandhill Park. This event is for ages 18 and up. marion .org
6. Wildlife Wednesdays will have you learning about frogs at the Heritage Nature Conservancy on July 30 and pollinators on August 27 at the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center. This free program takes place from 6-7pm. ocala .gov/recpark
7. The Fun in the Sun Outdoor Adventure series will take place July 16 at Jervey Gantt and August 6 at Lillian Bryant Park. The program runs from 9-11am and is free for all. Fun activities will be provided. ocala .gov/recpark
8. The Southern Dance Club, open to ages 4-14, is a free class where you’ll take part in ballet basics, jazz musicals, hip-hop, contemporary and modern dance. Classes take place at the Forest Community Center at Sandhill Park. Call Ms. Trish for the details at (814) 289-3688.
9 The Adult Art Club meets at Forest Community Center at Sandhill Park in Ocklawaha on the rst and third Saturdays of each month from 11am-1pm. This free program is a BYOS (bring your own supplies) event and is open to ages 18 and up. marion .org
10. The Summer Rec It Studio is designed to foster creativity, teamwork and a sense of creativity. The events take place at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place. July 7-11 is challenge week, July 14-18 is science week, July 21-25 features sports week, July 28-August 1 is nature week
and the last week, August 4-8, is H2O week. The program is free for all ages and runs MondaysFridays, from 10am-7pm. ocala .gov/recpark
11. Ocala’s parks have lots of o erings for active adults ages 50 and over, including Tuesday bingo from 11am-2pm at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, Footloose Line Dancing on Tuesdays from 11am-12:15pm and Mah Jong on Thursdays from 9-11:30am at the Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center, plus Forever Young Aerobics at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am-12:30pm. Find a complete list of activities in the recreation and parks’ activity guide at ocala .gov/recpark.
12. Grab the Nerf gun and head to the Nerf Challenge at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place on July 19 or August 2. The event, lled with fun games and obstacles, is for ages 5-12 and runs from 10am-12pm, costing $5 per person. ocala .gov/recpark
13 Rex is celebrating a birthday, and Ocala’s favorite squirrel says you’re invited! On July 18 head to
KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY
the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place from 10am12pm for this free, all ages program that will include story time, LEGO building, interactive games and a summertime treat. ocala .gov/recpark
14. If you’re into the card game Euchre, you’ll want to head to the Forest Community Center at Sandhill Park on Tuesdays from 1-4pm. This fun game is free and open to anyone ages 18 and up. marion .org
15. The Full Moon Night Hike will take place on August 9 for the Corn Moon at the Fort King National Historic Landmark. The free hike is for all ages and goes from 8-9pm. ocala .gov/recpark
16. The Discovery Center will o er a summer lled with Wonder Labs. These STEAM-centered weekly activities are free with admission to the Center and run from 1:30-3:30pm. Topics in July include Sound Science, Microscope Lab, Light Science and more. mydiscoverycenter.com
17. The Orange Blossom Ramblers put on a free bluegrass concert the third Saturday of the month from 5-7pm at the Forest Community Center at Sandhill Park. marion .org
DOCK & DINE
THESE WATERSIDE RESTAURANTS ARE THE PERFECT RETREAT AFTER A SUMMERTIME BOAT DAY.
BY MELISSA PETERSON
Although Ocala is landlocked in the middle of the Sunshine State, we’re fortunate to be a quick drive to either coast, not to mention there are an abundance of lakes and rivers that are even closer. This makes a day on the water a great option when planning your next weekend away. Whether you’re exploring the Intracoastal Waterway or the St. Johns River to our east or the Gulf or Homosassa Springs to our west, a full day on the water is going to require sustenance. These waterside restaurants not only o er excellent cuisine and refreshing drinks but docks that make it easy to pull up the boat, grab your lunch and head back out on the water. So, check out some of our favorite dock-and-dine restaurants that we’ve rounded up here before your next boat day—we promise your stomach will thank us later.
RIVER DECK TIKI BAR & RESTAURANT
107 N Riverside Drive, New Smyrna Beach
If your perfect boat day involves plenty of fun, a vibrant crowd and stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway, a stop at New Smyrna Beach’s River Deck Tiki Bar & Restaurant is sure to be the icing on an already sweet adventure.
Located right on the Indian River, River Deck serves up all your favorites, like fresh seafood and grilled chicken, steaks and burgers, all inspired by the avors of the Caribbean. Depending on your mood, we suggest the seafood pasta, ahi tuna or chicken wings, but if you’re really hungry, the River Decker Burger is something not to be missed.
If you’re the passenger princess on the boat, feel free to indulge in one of the “famous” 32-ounce bucket drinks. (Think a beach sand bucket lled with your favorite cocktail!) Choose from a large selection of expertly crafted cocktails or a variety of beers and ne wines.
With room for a party, feel free to tie up your boat and dine in or unwind at the tiki bar or on the sandy beach oasis right onsite. Guests can enjoy daily food and drink specials, like weekday happy hour from 3-6pm, as well as live music. Check out the website for the full lineup of entertainment and specials. riverdecknsb.com
BOAT BAR AT WELAKA LODGE
1001 Front Street, Welaka
Staying a little closer to home, Boat Bar at Welaka Lodge, located at Channel Marker 50 on the St. Johns River, just north of Lake George, o ers a more relaxed, “Old Florida” atmosphere. For over 30 years, Welaka Lodge has been the go-to spot for river-goers looking for great drinks, delicious food and fantastic entertainment.
You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the river in a welcoming environment that will make you feel just like a local. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a day on the water or dance the night away to a live DJ or karaoke, the Boat Bar has everything you need.
The Boat Bar, open Thursday through Monday, serves up the best drinks around, with a wide selection of beers, wines and
Photo by SPARK courtesy of Visit Florida
signature cocktails. Pair that with dockside favorites like ultimate nachos, gator bites, the ahi tuna sandwich, Marty’s Mushroom Swiss Burger or Willy’s Chili Cheese Dog, topped with homemade chili and melted cheddar cheese, and you’re guaranteed to leave happy and full.
If an afternoon isn’t long enough, spend a weekend on the river and make Welaka Lodge your base camp. The resort o ers luxury cottages and full hookup RV sites for rent and features a pool, hot tub, bath house, camp store, boat ramp, covered and open wet slips and lifted slips, boat rentals and charters, kayak and golf cart rentals, and, most importantly, direct access to the St. Johns River.
Check out the website to learn more or book your river getaway today. welakalodge.com
WHISKEY JOE’S
7835 Bayview Street, Port Richey Life is a party at any of the three (with a fourth coming soon!) Whiskey Joe’s locations, but for an island escape you can enjoy in a quick day trip, we suggest you visit the Port Richey Whiskey Joe’s. With the Gulf beckoning just in the distance, Whiskey Joe’s will be your go-to spot for tropical breezes, white sand, cold drinks, delicious grub and killer sunsets.
Inspired by the legend of Whiskey Joe—a renown sailor, adventurer and alligator tamer who sailed the open seas discovering new avors and spices from waters near and far—Whiskey Joe’s Floribbean menu features local Florida favorites and Caribbean avors. We suggest you try the Whiskey Burger in Paradise, topped with rum-glazed pineapple, strawberry-guava barbecue, pepper jack and crisp bacon; the Firecracker Shrimp Tacos, with house-made, beer-battered shrimp, coleslaw, Thai chili and sriracha aioli; or the Strawberry-Guava Rib Basket, featuring slow-cooked ribs with a strawberry-guava barbecue glaze, crispy fries and coleslaw. If you’re looking to unwind, Whiskey Joe’s Barefoot Tiki Bar brings the islands even closer with a large selection of tiki cocktails, local beers, palapas, re pits and live entertainment.
Guests can come to Whiskey Joe’s by land
or by sea, as the restaurant has pull-up docks available for guests who are spending the day on the Cotee River.
Check out the full menu, view the lineup of upcoming live entertainment at the tiki bar and check out photos from around the restaurant at the website. It’s a day on the water you won’t forget! thewhiskeyjoes.com
THE BLUE GATOR
12189 S Williams Street, Dunnellon
Don’t have your own boat? No worries! The Blue Gator, located in Dunnellon on the Withlacoochee River approximately 3/4
mile from where it’s joined by the Rainbow River, offers not only fantastic food and a fun Florida atmosphere but boat rentals on-site as well. It’s the perfect option for the boatless among us. Simply rent one of the fishing or pontoon boats and then enjoy a bite to eat after your time on the river.
The Blue Gator o ers an extensive menu lled with all the favorites, so everyone in your group can nd something to enjoy. Start your meal with the Bang Bang Shrimp, smoked sh dip or fried mushrooms before digging into the main meal. We suggest sampling the Gator Po’ Boy, fried oysters, chicken wings with your choice of sauce or even the frog legs, if you’re
feeling like something truly Southern. The kids have options just for them on the menu as well, so everyone will leave happy.
Boat rentals are available for a half day, full day or full day plus the evening, if you’re looking for more time on the water. The fishing boat rentals fit up to four people, while the maximum capacity for the pontoon boats is 12. Check the website for details on boat types as well as prices depending on the amount of time you want to rent.
Captain Bobs Airboat Tours, also on-site at The Blue Gator, can take you and up to ve friends on a tour of the Withlacoochee. There’s a four-person minimum for the tour, and the
Airboat photo courtesy of The Blue Gator; Shrimp photo courtesy of Eaton's Beach Sandbar & Grill; Sunset photo courtesy of Cap's On The Water
tour lasts one hour for $60 per person.
If you want to make a weekend of it, check out The Gator Den at the Angler’s Resort, onsite at The Blue Gator. Under new ownership, The Gator Den is a newly constructed motel featuring no-fuss accommodations right on the river. Check out the website to book your stay today. blue-gator.com
OUR DECK DOWN UNDER
78 Dunlawton Avenue, Port Orange
Located under the Dunlawton Bridge in Port Orange along the Halifax River in the Intracoastal Waterway, Our Deck Down Under is just a short drive south from Daytona Beach. For 20 years, the team at Our Deck Down Under has crafted a waterfront dining experience that locals and visitors alike can enjoy.
O ering tasty, generous portions of seafood, ribs, burgers and house-made specialties, Our Deck Down Under is the perfect spot to take a break from the Florida sunshine. Guests can enjoy an ice-cold beer inside the dining rooms or watch the sunset after a long day on the water from the outdoor deck. And whether you come for lunch or dinner, the beautiful panoramic views of the Intracoastal will remind you why you love to call Florida home.
The menu o ers masterfully created seafood cuisine, along with salads, burgers, chicken and desserts. You’ll want to try one of the favorites: homemade shrimp and grits or the house-made smoked baby back ribs. And we suggest nishing your meal with the always yummy Deck-A-Dent Key Lime Pie.
Guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor dining, a full bar, boat docks for river access and seating for large parties. And whether you’re cruising back from a trip to Ponce Inlet or are out on the water for a day of family fun, you’ll nd plenty of slips to dock your watercraft. No reservations are required for the boat slips, and slips are available on a rst-come, rst-serve basis. ourdeckdownunder.com
CAP’S ON THE WATER
4325 Myrtle Street, St. Augustine
Home to some of the most stunning sunsets in all of Florida, Cap’s On The Water is located on the Tolomato River in the Intracoastal Waterway, just north of St. Augustine near Vilano Beach. Serving new coastal cuisine, pairing fresh local seafood with traditional Southern and Mediterranean avors, Cap’s On The Water has a large outdoor deck for some of the best waterfront dining around.
Whether you choose the indoor dining room, traditional tiki bar, covered pavilion, the Sunset Oyster Bar or the intimate inside bar, the dining options are all wonderful. The drink menu features handcrafted cocktails, cold beer and an award-winning wine list with over 500 selections. The menu focuses on local seafood and produce, and Chef Chip leads a talented team of chefs who all bring their own air to the menu to help create nightly specials. Beyond the seafood o erings, both the lunch and dinner menu o er options everyone can enjoy, including a grilled, blackened or fried chicken wrap or Burrata BLT for lunch and pecan-crusted chicken and beef tips for dinner. Plus, there’s a kids’ menu for the youngest in your party.
A 90-foot dock on-site provides slips for roughly six boats. During dinner service, there’s usually plenty of space for boaters, but spots can be limited during weekend lunches. Plan to arrive early or hang back on one of the popular sandbars nearby until a space opens up. To-go orders can be placed by calling (904) 824-8794 during non-busy times of the day. If you want to place a to-go order, we suggest getting your orders in early to avoid a long wait. Cap’s On The Water also o ers “docktail” servers working on the main dock, and if able, they can help boaters with their takeout orders. All you need to do is pull up, order a couple of items for lunch to go and then head on back out to enjoy your day.
capsonthewater.com
EATON’S BEACH SANDBAR & GRILL
15790 SE 134th Avenue, Weirsdale
Just 30 minutes from Ocala, Eaton’s Beach is a popular restaurant and weekend destination located right on Lake Weir. And whether you have your own watercraft or decide to rent one right at Eaton’s Beach, the restaurant’s waterfront deck, full-service bar and comfortable beach vibe o er a perfect setting for locals and visitors to enjoy.
In 1924, Jay Eaton transformed a scenic spot
on Lake Weir into a lively retreat, dreaming of turning it into the Coney Island of Florida. Over the years, the property grew into a local treasure with boardwalks, a boathouse and more. Today, alongside beautiful views and a welcoming atmosphere, Eaton’s Beach is proud to keep Jay Eaton’s dream alive, creating unforgettable experiences for guests old and new.
Eaton’s Beach o ers a Florisiana menu, blending Southern and Louisiana avors where fresh ingredients are the name of the game. From the signature seafood dishes to succulent steaks, your meal will be as beautiful as the view from your seat. Try the amegrilled salmon, basted with a sweet citrus glaze; the Charleston Shrimp Platter, featuring two perfectly grilled skewers of succulent shrimp paired with the signature Low Country succotash; or the Flame-Grilled Ribeye Delight, well-marbled for rich avor and incredible tenderness in every bite. For your convenience, Eaton’s Beach o ers dine-in, delivery and to-go options, and if you’re picking up your order and heading back out on the lake, their full menu is available for online orders.
Eaton’s Beach o ers dock access for boaters on Lake Weir, or if you don’t have your own boat, Eaton’s Beach Aquatic Sports can hook you up, o ering rentals of pontoon boats, kayaks, paddle boards, and two- or four-person peddle boats. They even o er one-hour lake tours and sunset cruises if you’d rather relax and let someone else do the navigating. Boat tours and
rentals can be booked right from the Aquatic Sports website: ebas .com eatonsbeach.com
CRUMPS’ LANDING
11210 W Halls River Road, Homosassa
The lively and happening Crumps’ Landing is a favorite for boaters exploring the Homosassa River, the shallow Gulf waters in the area or Homosassa Springs. With more than 30 boat slips, you can either dock and enjoy your meal from the beach dining area or order online and pick up your lunch to go at the Pavilion Bar. Either way, the extensive food menu with fresh Gulf seafood being the main highlight, a huge variety of tiki-style cocktails and local craft beer, a pirate ship-themed kids’ playground and waterfront views of the Homosassa River and Monkey Island (yes, there are real monkeys that live on the island) make Crumps’ Landing a must-visit for your boat day. The diverse menu at Crumps’ Landing is perfect for every palate, whether you’re looking for a leisurely dinner with loved ones after a long day on the water, a quick lunch to take a break from the sun or a solo meal at the bar. Crumps’ Landing o ers a relaxed setting where the food and cocktails are as enjoyable as the friendly faces and top-notch service.
If you’re in a hurry, the full menu is available for ordering online. It’s a great way to grab your meal and get back to enjoying the day. With all the favorites you’d expect, and a few unexpected treats, no one will go hungry. Feeling adventurous?
Try something fun, like the Guac on the Dock or seared scallops for starters; Firecracker Burger, gator bite tacos or Southwest steak bow for your main; and the sweet pineapple upside down cake to nish o the meal. There are also plenty of options for the youngest boaters on deck, like chicken tenders, grilled cheese, mac and cheese, and fried shrimp. crumpslanding.com
WATERFRONT SOCIAL
1610 SE Paradise Circle, Crystal River
Located in Crystal River with spectacular views of Kings Bay, Waterfront Social o ers indoor and outdoor seating for an informal lunch, sunset cocktails or waterside dinner. With dock spaces available for boaters enjoying the bay, it’s the ideal stop for when your passengers get hungry and restless.
The menu emphasizes made-from-scratch recipes with a Southern coastal air with a uniquely Florida atmosphere. O ering 180-degree views of the bay, visit the tiki bar, where you’ll not only get that Old Florida watering hole vibe but also be able to enjoy contemporary dishes and a wide selection of local craft beers, time-honored wines and premium spirits.
For starters, we suggest you try the grouper bites, a half- or full-pound of peel-and-eat shrimp (depending on how hungry you and your fellow boaters are) or the white cheddar Wisconsin cheese fried cheese curds. (Don’t forget the ranch!) If you want something light, try the tuna, shrimp or chicken poke bowl, complete with coconut-scented jasmine rice, avocado, cucumber, radish, pickled red onions, wakame, cilantro, lime and sticky sauce. So refreshing after a hot day on the water! For lunch, try a “handheld”—maybe the fried grouper sandwich, blackened mahi tacos or hot honey fried chicken. For dinner or something more substantial, don’t miss the barbecued St. Louis ribs, classic sh and chips, or the shrimp pasta. And if you don’t listen to any of our other suggestions, be sure to hear this: You’ll want to end your meal with a dessert—we suggest either the salted caramel cheesecake or Reese’s Peanut Butter pie. Yum! waterfrontsocialcr.com
Photo by Roundhouse Creative, courtesy of Visit Florida
BARGAINS, FOOD & FAMILY FUN
INTERNATIONAL MARKET WORLD FLEA AND FARMS MARKET IS WORTH THE DAYTRIP!
Oof US 92 in Auburndale, located between Orlando and Tampa, is the International Market World Flea and Farmers Market, or what we like to call the mother of all ea markets. A family a air for Vince To, the current owner, the market was started by his father, a brother and Vince in 1981. Today, the market is still run by Vince and another brother, Ivan To.
“A long time ago someone took my dad to a ea market to wander around and explore,” says Vince. “He enjoyed it, and he was the type of guy who builds things and tries a lot of things, so he decided to create one of his own.”
What was once just a sevenaisle market now covers roughly 30 acres. This ea and farmers market has a little something for everyone
with 1,000 vendor spaces. But the farmers market is our favorite! Produce row, as Vince calls it, is lled with the scents, colors and tastes of nature. From farmto-table veggies and fruits and seasonal favorites to delectable dry goods and homemade condiments and toppings, produce row is where you should start (and possibly end) your International Market journey.
Shopping and perusing is part of the fun at a ea market, and International Market o ers hundreds of vendors to check out. One of the most popular areas, according to Vince, is their collectible section lled with items for both kids and adults. They also have an on-site pawn shop and golf pro shop.
The market is open Fridays
BY KARIN FABRY-CUSHENBERY
often-misunderstood creatures, plus get some insight into respecting gators in the wild.
But back to the food! Can you tell we are hungry? We mentioned the farmers market earlier, but that’s not where the cuisine ends. More than a dozen concession options are available, including international
through Sundays, and at 12 and 1pm, you’ll want to check out the on-site circus performance and small zoo with the kiddos.
“The acts are always changing,” says Vince. “We have had jugglers, dog and cat acts, trapeze artists, trampolinists, clowns and much more. It’s just about providing a fun atmosphere for our guests. There’s also the zoo, which houses domestic creatures like wolves, raccoons, turkeys and more. The idea is to rehab and release animals that need help, but if they can’t be rehabbed, they have a safe place to live out the rest of their life.”
There’s also live karaoke with Carol on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am-4pm, and you can hold and check out live gators at the market. You’ll learn details on these
favorites like Mexican and Indian food. Plus, the typical, but tasty, fair-type food like hamburgers, corn dogs and more. Café Monterey o ers fresh smoothies, mangonadas and pina coladas—perfect treats for a hot summer afternoon. There’s also taquerias, snow cones, the Jelly Man, The Pickle People, Two Crazy Nuts and, of course, a ea market staple, mini donuts. Plus, so much more!
Vince says right now the market has delicious seasonal watermelon, plus an abundance of live plants and owers to choose from.
“We invite you to come and check us out,” he says. “We have people from all over the world selling di erent types of products, hence our name. It’s a unique concept to be entertained and educated while you shop and eat. This is just good, clean fun for the family.”
US 92, AUBURNDALE Internationalmarketworld.com
Photos courtesy of Vince To
BAKERY
SMALLCAKES OCALA
CUPCAKERY & CREAMERY
4701 SW College Rd. #106 | Ocala (352) 844-5903
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FOOD
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754 NE 25th Ave. | Ocala (352)620-9255
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HEALTH & FITNESS
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Yoga classes, light therapy & cold plunge
923 N Magnolia Ave., Ste. 1300 | Ocala (352) 234-3867
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Photo by Michael Warren
A DOWNTOWN STAPLE
GET A GLIMPSE BEHIND THE DOWNTOWN BAR SCENE WITH OCALA’S BUCK MARTIN. BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND
Many people work in the hospitality industry for short stints, but once Buck Martin walked through those doors, he never looked back.
“The hospitality industry has been good to me,” says Buck. “I met the love of my life and found a career there. I met Amber at O’Malley’s. We’ve been together nine years and got married this February.”
A Marion County native and 2003 Belleview High grad, Buck has worked in restaurants and bars since his teens.
“I started working in the
The Tipsy Skipper is like being in a lost jungle in the South Pacific and having really great drinks in a living room that looks like it’s from the 1950s.
Buck Martin Co-Owner
The Tipsy Skipper & Mutiny Ocala
kitchen at Charlie Horse when I was 18 and eventually worked my way up to bartender. Then I started working downtown and was at O’Malley’s Alley from 2009 to 2018,” says Buck.
“In my 20s, bartending was a fun thing to do,” he says. “I wasn’t willing to grow up back then. It was good money and a good time.”
By his early 30s he was interested in pursuing a di erent avenue in the same industry.
“My friend Bryan (Caracciolo), who opened The Lodge, asked if I wanted to open a bar with him,” says Buck. “I managed The Lodge for its rst year from 2018 to 2019,” says Buck.
Chris Weiss, a friend Buck had known since his bartending days at O’Malley’s Alley, suggested they start their own business, which is how they became partners in The Tipsy Skipper.
“At that time, I was really getting into craft cocktails, and there was nothing like that in Ocala,” says Buck. “It was a natural progression into classic tiki—not Margaritaville thatched roofs and frozen drinks— but mid-century modern tiki. We were trying to do something di erent. I didn’t know if Ocala was ready for it, but it was.”
“The Tipsy Skipper is like being in a lost jungle in the South Paci c and having really great drinks in a living room that looks like it’s from the 1950s,” he says.
Buck and Chris both love old movies, so the bar’s décor pays homage to classic Hollywood.
“The Creature from the Black Lagoon and Tarzan were both lmed at Silver Springs. It’s so cool to have this history right here in Ocala, so why not use that?” says Buck.
Despite opening just days before the pandemic shutdown in March 2020, the bar not only survived but has thrived.
The following year, their landlord o ered the opportunity to rent the other side of the building.
“It was a chance we couldn’t let pass, so even though we weren’t ready, we jumped on it. We opened Mutiny Ocala in September 2021,” says Buck. “Chris and I always wanted multiple bars, but we didn’t want to compete with ourselves, so we said if we’re going to be next door, we might as well do the exact opposite. We had our manager, Sam Betty, in mind before we even had the place. He is Mutiny Ocala. Once we opened the doors, all the success we owe to him. He’s done a great job there.”
Unlike the laid-back vibe at The Tipsy Skipper, Mutiny Ocala is more of an elevated dive bar featuring loud punk rock music, live shows and a big beer collection.
Don’t be surprised to nd Buck behind the bar at The Tipsy Skipper.
“The last couple months, I’ve started to get back into bartending, and I think I’ll be doing more in the future. I feel re-energized about it,” says Buck, who turned 40 in April.
“As an owner, you feel like what you’re doing is a labor of love,” he smiles.
Happy 4th of July! Head to El Toreo for the best Mexican food this side of the border! Enjoy all of your favorite traditional Mexican dishes in a friendly and festive atmosphere. Beyond the outstanding Mexican food, El Toreo simply o ers a warm, fun place to be—whether you’re dressed up or casual. Any day is a good day for one of El Toreo’s tasty margaritas: Mondays and Wednesdays $2 margaritas, Saturdays 2-for-1 margaritas and 2-for-1 happy hour every day from 4-7pm (excluding margaritas).
TASTY TO-DOS
Summer Vibes Asian Street Food Festival
August 2-3
The street festival of all street festivals will take place August 2-3 in Pinellas Park. The Summer Vibes Asian Street Food Festival will feature more than 75 vendors, live music and cultural performances, a massive lantern display and soooo much yummy food. Bring the kids so they can enjoy the bounce houses, a water slide, stilt walkers and more. The event will take place at England Brothers Park from 2-11pm, and tickets cost $7 for adults. Kids get in for free. Parking is free, too! Find more information at authentic orida.com.
If authentic Japanese and Asian cuisine is what you’re craving, a trip to Samurai Hibachi & Ramen Restaurant on Easy Street (SE 19th Avenue Road) in Ocala is in order. With a convenient location adjacent to the Walmart parking lot and across the street from the Regal Cinema, the restaurant offers both eat-in and take-out dining, plus delivery. Samurai offers a great selection of hibachi meals, including the regulars like vegetable, shrimp, chicken and steak but also pork belly and salmon. Bento boxes, tempura Katsu and noodle bowls are also available. Yaki noodles and a buildyour-own poke bowl are also on the menu. If you have a hard time deciding, choose from one of their signature bowls, like the Hawaiian Classic, Fire It UP, Christmas Parade, or Land and Sea bowl. Plan a visit today!
WAKE UP TO WATERMELON
Servings: 1
• 1/3 cup low fat granola
• 3/4 cup de-seeded watermelon chunks
• 5 ounces low-fat banana yogurt
In a tall glass or to-go container, layer ingredients as follows: half each of granola, watermelon and yogurt. Repeat to create two of each layer.
Some heartburn, also known as acid reflux, is normal. But when it happens often, it may be a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Acid can harm your esophagus, teeth, voice box and lungs and, if left untreated, it can even cause esophageal cancer.
Our expert physicians use comprehensive diagnostic tools to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and develop a plan that’s right for you — one that relieves your symptoms and helps you enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
