Top Places to See When Driving From Boca West, Florida to Ocala, Florida

Are you ready to hit the road and explore Florida? If you're starting your journey in Boca West and heading towards Ocala, you're in for a scenic treat. This road trip takes you through some of the most gorgeous highways in Florida, with plenty of stops along the way to explore some of the state's most beautiful sights.

Whether you're a nature lover, thrill-seeker, or history buff, there is something for everyone on this road trip. In this blog post, we've rounded up the top places to see when driving from Boca West, Florida, to Ocala, Florida. So, pack your bags, fill up your tank and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

1. Gainesville, Florida

Our first stop on this journey is Gainesville, Florida. This city is most famous for being home to the University of Florida, but there's so much more to explore beyond the college campus. Make sure to check out the Florida Museum of Natural History, which houses an extensive collection of fossils, artifacts, and displays of Florida's indigenous wildlife.

Another must-see spot in Gainesville is the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, which boasts 62 acres of stunning flowers, trees, and natural vegetation. Finally, if you're feeling adventurous, grab a paddle and head over to Ginnie Springs to explore one of the most popular freshwater dive spots in Florida.

2. Devil's Den Spring

About an hour and a half north of Gainesville, you'll come across one of Florida's hidden gems: Devil's Den Spring. This underground spring is enclosed in a prehistoric cave and is one of the most unique natural wonders in the entire state.

At Devil's Den, you can snorkel or dive (with certification) in the crystal clear waters while observing the ancient rock formations and wildlife that call the spring home. This is a must-visit spot for adventure-seekers and underwater enthusiasts.

3. Ocala National Forest

After exploring Devil's Den, head further north to Ocala National Forest - one of the most extensive and diverse forests in the country. This vast wilderness area spans over 600 square miles and houses over 600 natural springs, seven major rivers, and countless species of wildlife.

If you're looking for outdoor activities, Ocala National Forest is the perfect spot. Take a dip in Juniper Springs, canoe down the Silver River, or hike through the Big Scrub Nature Trail. Don't forget to keep an eye out for the numerous species of wildlife that call this forest home, including black bears, alligators, and wild turkeys.

4. Silver Springs State Park

Just outside of Ocala National Forest, you'll come across Silver Springs State Park - another must-visit spot on this road trip. This historic park is famous for its crystal clear waters, abundant wildlife, and multiple underwater springs.

One of the most popular activities at Silver Springs is taking a glass-bottom boat tour, which takes visitors through the various springs, providing a unique view of Florida's underworld. If you're feeling more adventurous, grab a kayak or paddleboard and explore the waterways yourself. You might even spot some of the park's famous manatees in the waters.

5. Rainbow Springs State Park

Finally, our last stop on this epic road trip is Rainbow Springs State Park. This stunning park is home to one of the most beautiful natural springs in Florida, with crystal clear blue waters and towering palm trees.

Besides swimming in the spring, visitors can explore the park's numerous trails, take a kayak or paddleboard tour, or even go tubing down the Rainbow River. If you're interested in Florida's history, don't miss the reconstructed 1800s homestead and museum on-site.

Conclusion

Florida is a truly remarkable state, and this road trip from Boca West to Ocala will take you through some of the most beautiful and unique areas in the entire state. From exploring Gainesville's museums and dive sites to discovering Florida's underwater treasures at Devil's Den and Silver Springs, this road trip has something for everyone. End your journey with a refreshing dip at Rainbow Springs and be sure to take in all the adventure and natural beauty that this state has to offer. Happy travels!