Ocala Family Things To Do at Night
street view of main area of downtown with twilight and marion theatre ocala

When the sun sets in Ocala, a world of vibrant and family-friendly activities comes to life, offering an exciting array of options for unforgettable nights out together. Dive into the thrill of arcades and game centers, where laughter echoes as you challenge each other to games galore. Satisfy late-night cravings at eateries that serve up delicious bites perfect for every palate. For those who love the outdoors, Ocala offers enchanting night-time experiences under the starry sky, adding magic to your evening explorations. Cap off your night with captivating movies and live shows that promise entertainment for all ages. Whether you’re seeking adventure, good food, or quality time with loved ones, Ocala’s nightlife delivers fun and excitement at every turn.

 

Late Night Indoor Experiences

Ocala offers a vibrant array of late-night indoor experiences perfect for all ages, ensuring fun-filled evenings for families and groups alike. Dive into the lively atmosphere of local arcades, where the flashing lights and nostalgic sounds of classic and modern games create an exhilarating escape for both the young and the young at heart. For those seeking a thrilling challenge, escape games provide an interactive adventure that encourages teamwork and problem-solving skills. Meanwhile, bowling alleys and karting can provide a perfect blend of competition and camaraderie. These diverse indoor activities ensure that every evening in Ocala is filled with laughter, excitement, and endless entertainment.

Bearded Browncoat Comics & Games

If you or your kids are into comics, collectibles or board gaming, Bearded Browncoat Comics & Games in Ocala is a great option. Known for its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, this store is a hub for genre enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in a world of fantasy and fun. Whether you’re a long-time comic book fan or new to the gaming scene, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Conveniently open Sunday through Thursday until 9 PM, and extending its hours until 1 AM on Friday and midnight on Saturday, Bearded Browncoat Comics & Games provides flexible hours and late night games to accommodate even the busiest of schedules. With its friendly staff and engaging environment, it’s a must-visit spot for a memorable family outing in Ocala.

young boys competing on motorcycle racing game at arcade

Easy Street Family Fun Center

Easy Street Family Fun Center is the perfect destination for families seeking a lively and welcoming environment to enjoy quality time together. This family-friendly venue offers a wide range of activities that cater to all ages, ensuring that everyone has a memorable experience. Whether it’s racing around the go-kart track, enjoying a round of mini-golf, or testing game-winning skills in the expansive arcade, there’s something to delight every member of the family. Easy Street is open on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays until 8 PM, and extends its hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 10 PM, making it an ideal spot for evening entertainment. With its inviting atmosphere and diverse range of activities, Easy Street Family Fun Center is an exciting place to create lasting family memories.

Paddock Mall

Ocala’s Paddock Mall is a great destination for a family night out, offering a delightful blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment that caters to all ages. Families can explore a variety of stores, from trendy fashion outlets to specialty shops, ensuring everyone finds something they love. The mall also features dining options ranging from casual to more refined, providing the perfect spot for a family meal. Operating hours are conveniently designed to fit different schedules, with the mall open until 6 PM on Sundays, 8 PM from Monday to Thursday, and 9 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. This flexibility allows families to enjoy a leisurely evening, browsing and bonding together in a welcoming atmosphere.

Bowlero West Ocala

Bowlero West Ocala is a prime spot for a family night out, offering a lively and welcoming atmosphere where fun and excitement are always in play. Open from Sunday to Thursday until 10 PM and extending the joy until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, Bowlero provides a flexible schedule that accommodates families on almost any night of the week. With its vibrant décor, captivating arcade games, and roomy bowling lanes, families can bond over friendly competition or food and drink. Kids and adults alike will be drawn to the array of activities, from classic bowling to billiards to the latest arcade adventures, ensuring a memorable outing filled with laughter. Whether you’re planning a casual family gathering or a special celebration, Bowlero West Ocala promises an unforgettable outing that caters to all ages.

The Ocala Escape

The Ocala Escape is the ultimate adventure destination for families and friends looking to challenge their problem-solving skills and have fun together. Open from Sunday to Thursday until 8 PM and extending the excitement until 10:30 PM on Friday and Saturday, The Ocala Escape offers a perfect evening outing for all ages. With a variety of immersive escape room themes to choose from, every visit promises a unique experience that caters to diverse interests and preferences. Whether you’re planning a family day out or an exciting group activity, The Ocala Escape ensures there’s something thrilling for everyone to enjoy.

family of four in low light dining area laughing over meal horse hounds ocala

Late Night Dining Options

Ocala‘s late-night dining scene offers a delightful mix of options catering to all ages, making it a perfect destination for families seeking a cozy meal after hours. Many family-friendly restaurants in the area boast diverse cuisine menus, ranging from classic American favorites to comfort foods, ensuring that there’s something to satisfy every palate. Establishments like a local grill or a quaint Italian bistro provide a welcoming atmosphere with spacious seating and attentive service, making them ideal for both kids and adults to enjoy, while kid-friendly menus ensure that little ones are satisfied. Whether you’re indulging in a late-night burger or savoring a slice of gourmet pizza, these dining spots offer a warm and inviting experience for all.

Brooklyn’s Backyard

A hidden gem in the heart of Ocala, Brooklyn’s Backyard offers a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for families looking to enjoy a night out. Open until 8 PM Tuesday to Thursday and until 9 PM on Friday and Saturday, this charming restaurant caters to those looking for a later dining experience. With a dedicated kids’ menu, Brooklyn’s Backyard ensures that even the youngest members of the family are satisfied, making it an ideal choice for any age. The friendly ambiance, coupled with an outdoor family barbecue theme, promises a dining experience filled with delicious food and cherished moments.

Horse & Hounds

Set in the heart of Ocala, Horse & Hounds Restaurant invites you to indulge in its unique Southern cuisine, offering a delightful culinary experience that celebrates the region’s rich flavors. Open late nightly until 9:30 PM, this charming eatery is the perfect spot for a family night, where loved ones can come together to enjoy hearty, authentic dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re craving classic comfort foods or looking to explore new Southern-inspired creations, Horse & Hounds provides a dining experience that’s both satisfying and memorable, making it a favorite destination for families in the area.

Mesa de Notte

Mesa de Notte is a local Ocala favorite for a delightful family night out. Open from Tuesday to Saturday until 9 PM, this family-friendly restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where both kids and adults can enjoy a memorable evening meal. Known for its kid-friendly menu, Mesa de Notte features favorites like delicious, freshly made pastas that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Parents can unwind and savor the rich flavors of the diverse menu, knowing their little ones are happily enjoying their food. With its welcoming ambiance and delectable offerings, Mesa de Notte stands out as an ideal spot for families to gather and create cherished memories together.

spaghetti with meatballs on white plate at mesa de notte ocala

Late Night Outdoor Experiences

In Ocala, late-night outdoor excursions present an enchanting opportunity for families of all ages to connect with nature under the shimmering night sky. Local parks stay open late, providing well-lit playgrounds and paths for kids to explore. Night hikes through the lush landscapes of wildlife preserves and parks reveal the nocturnal world of the region. Guided wildlife tours by boat or even horseback provide an educational yet thrilling journey, highlighting the diverse flora and fauna unique to this area. These family-friendly outdoor activities not only showcase the breathtaking natural beauty of Ocala, but also offer a safe and enjoyable way for families to explore and create lasting memories together.

Tuscawilla Park

Tuscawilla Park in Ocala is the perfect outdoor spot for a delightful family night out, offering a wide array of activities and features that cater to all ages. Open until 8 PM nightly, the park provides a safe and welcoming environment where families can unwind and create lasting memories. With its sprawling green spaces, scenic walking trails, and a serene lake, it sets the stage for an evening of relaxation and fun. Children will love the expansive playgrounds, while the whole family can enjoy a friendly game of disc golf or explore the park’s art installations. Tuscawilla Park‘s unique blend of natural beauty and recreation makes it an ideal spot for families seeking quality time together in a picturesque setting.

Glass Bottom Boat Tours at Silver Springs

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure with Glass Bottom Boat Tours at Silver Springs, where the magic of underwater exploration awaits. The tours close at 7 PM, so be sure to plan ahead and start off your family night here. This exceptional experience invites you to marvel at the vibrant aquatic life and stunning natural beauty of the springs from the comfort of a boat with transparent floors. As you glide over crystal-clear waters, the tour offers not just a visual feast but also an educational journey, revealing fascinating insights into the ecosystem beneath. Catering to all ages, this excursion promises engaging stories and discoveries that make it an ideal outing for the entire family, combining fun and learning in a unique, scenic setting.

women on horses near trail with fire pit area at the canyons zip line and adventure park ocala

Scott Springs Park

Scott Springs Park in Ocala offers an enchanting setting for a family night outing, combining natural beauty with a variety of activities that cater to all ages. Open until 7 PM, the park provides an ideal opportunity for families to unwind together as the sun sets. Nestled amid lush greenery, families can explore scenic trails, enjoy a picnic in the designated areas, or let the kids burn off energy at the playground. The park’s serene ambiance makes it perfect for evening strolls, while the open spaces invite games and shared laughter. As the day cools, the gentle sounds of nature enhance the experience, making Scott Springs Park a cherished spot for creating lasting family memories.

The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park

The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park offers an exhilarating escape for families seeking unforgettable evening activities. As the sun sets, the park transforms into a realm of adventure with its captivating night tours, inviting families to explore the lush landscapes under a canopy of stars. These tours provide a thrilling way to experience the natural beauty and excitement of zip-lining in a unique nocturnal setting. For those seeking a more grounded adventure, the Horseback Ride Fireside tour offers an enchanting journey through the park’s moonlit serene trails, culminating in a cozy fireside gathering. These tours let you and yours explore the natural Ocala wilderness, making it a perfect adventure for families looking to create lasting memories under the night sky.

Tom & Jerry’s Airboat Rides

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Tom & Jerry’s Airboat Rides, where the enchanting Ocala area wetlands come alive at night. Perfect for all ages, these thrilling night tours offer a unique glimpse into the mysterious world of nocturnal Central Florida wildlife. As the airboat glides smoothly over the shimmering waters, guests are treated to the symphony of night sounds and illuminated views of the wetlands under a starlit sky. Discover the thrill of spotting alligators, herons, and other creatures in their natural habitat, making each moment a captivating experience. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, every tour promises excitement and discovery, creating family memories that last a lifetime.

night exterior with lighting and patrons at reilly arts center ocala

Late Night Entertainment

In the evening, Ocala offers vibrant entertainment options for all ages, including movie theaters and stage productions. Families can enjoy the latest blockbusters and animated films at local cinemas, providing a perfect outing for those seeking a shared experience under the stars or in cozy theater seats. The live theater scene in Ocala is equally captivating, with venues showcasing a variety of live productions, from musicals to dramas, that captivate audiences of all generations. These entertainment hubs not only deliver diverse programming but also foster a sense of community, making them beloved destinations for both residents and visitors.

Ocala Civic Theatre

The Ocala Civic Theatre offers an enchanting experience for families seeking a memorable night out, with its diverse array of shows that cater to all ages. This beloved local theater presents a wide variety of performances, from captivating musicals and delightful comedies to thought-provoking dramas, ensuring there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. The theater’s welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere provides a perfect setting for creating cherished memories together. Additionally, Ocala Civic Theatre is renowned for its engaging community programs and special family-focused events, which enhance the overall experience and make it a standout choice for a family night outing.

Ocala Drive-In

With its nostalgic charm, the Ocala Drive-In transports visitors back to a simpler time, allowing them to enjoy the magic of cinema from the cozy comfort of their own car. Families can relish the wide variety of family-friendly films, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Beyond the captivating shows, the Ocala Drive-In enhances the experience with its snack bar, offering classic movie treats like popcorn and candy, and occasionally hosts themed nights that elevate the fun. Their blend of nostalgia, comfort, and entertainment makes the Ocala Drive-In a perfect destination for a family night outing.

girl drinking fountain drink watching movie with mom in theater

Reilly Arts Center

The Reilly Arts Center in Ocala offers a delightful array of family-friendly shows that captivate audiences of all ages. With a diverse lineup that includes enchanting musical concerts, engaging theater productions, and special events designed for both young and old, the center provides an inviting atmosphere where families can enjoy quality time together. Known for its warm and welcoming environment, the Reilly Arts Center is committed to delivering entertainment that fosters togetherness and joy. Its state-of-the-art facilities and innovative programs, such as interactive workshops and themed performances, make it a beloved destination for family night outings.

Epic Theatres

The Epic Theatres location in Ocala offers the perfect setting for a memorable family movie night, where its family-friendly atmosphere ensures a welcoming experience for all ages. With a diverse selection of movie options ranging from the latest animated features to thrilling family adventures, there’s something to entertain every member of the family. The luxury seating provides relaxation, ensuring everyone can enjoy the film in cozy comfort. Epic Theatres enhances the family outing with special amenities like spacious auditoriums and a well-stocked concession stand offering kid-friendly snacks and treats. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a night out, Epic Theatres of Ocala is sure to offer an unforgettable cinematic experience for families.

 

As the evening unfolds in Ocala, families are treated to a diverse array of activities that make for an unforgettable night out. From the buzzing energy of arcades and game centers to the savory delights of late-night eateries, each experience adds a unique flavor to the night. Whether you’re captivated by the allure of outdoor adventures under a canopy of stars or entertained by engaging movies and shows, the offerings are as varied as they are exciting. These moments spent exploring Ocala’s vibrant nightlife not only create lasting memories but also strengthen the bonds of family. So, embrace the magic of Ocala after dark, and let the city’s charm lead you to discover new joys and experiences together. For even more tips and ideas to enhance your visit, be sure to check out our Ocala Vacation Guide, your go-to resource for planning the perfect getaway.