Ocala is a city located in the great peninsula that makes up Florida, but instead of being situated on the Gulf or Pacific coasts, it is located inland, in the north-central area occupied by Marion County. A mid-sized city, Ocala boasts some 53,000 permanent residents, yet it is the main city in its region and also serves as the seat of county government.
Ocala Symphony Orchestra
One reason tourists come to stay in Ocala vacation rentals is the wealth of fine arts available in the city. Ocala plays host to the Ocala Symphony Orchestra, a rather remarkable achievement for a city of this size. The Ocala Symphony Orchestra is an Ocala tradition, having been started as far back as the 1970s by a group combined of interested citizens and professional musicians. It exists today as a non-profit corporation and offers four concerts per year, with subscriptions available.
Ocala Civic Theatre
There is more than music to attract visitors to Ocala. The city also features a theatre troupe that performs at the Ocala Civic Theatre, providing during most seasons 12 or more productions each year. In addition, visiting touring companies sometimes put on productions in the venue. Tickets are considered affordable for these professional live and fully staged productions. The volunteer wing of the Theatre provides fine arts instruction through a community theater organization, working with more than 1000 students each year. This too makes Ocala unique, as it is one of the largest community theaters Florida state offers.