8282 SE County Road 314
Part of the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, this 2.5-mile linear trail in east Ocala travels through a wetland landscape with palm trees and cypresses. A wooden boardwalk will take you to an overlook of the wetlands.
The large trees make for a shaded hike, but the swampy terrain can also draw mosquitoes, so make sure to pack bug spray.
The Marshall Swamp Trail is a hidden gem that will make you feel like a jungle explorer in an otherwise urban landscape. Keep an eye out for armadillos, deer, alligators and other wildlife.
The free trail is open from sunrise to sunset daily. Leashed pets are welcome. There is a stabilized parking area and restrooms.
Ocala Star-Banner
THIS WEEKEND
Dan McCarthy’s Florida: Explored: Jan. 15 is the last day to see this free exhibit at the city of Ocala Recreation and Parks Administration, 828 NE Eighth Ave. Florida: Explored is an exhibit of select pieces created during (McCarthy s) exploration of a hidden gem in Marion County: Indian Lake State Forest, the city said in a news release. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“I Hate Hamlet”: Live onstage at the Ocala Civic Theatre through Feb. 7. This comedy is set in New York City and centers around an actor who is cast as Hamlet, much to his chagrin. Tickets and details at ocalacivictheatre.com or 236-2274. The theater is located at 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala.
Ocala Star-Banner
THIS WEEKEND
World Equestrian Center: Weekend events at the new World Equestrian Center, 1390 NW 80th Ave., Ocala, include German Shepherd and other dog breed exhibitions, live musical shows, Arabian and Andalusion stallions performing with trainer Sylvia Zerbinia, and more, Dec. 26-27. Showtimes vary; visit worldequestriancenter.com for more details.
ONGOING
Holiday Light Display: Twinkling lights and holiday decor will be on display at The Town Square at Circle Square Commons, On Top of the World, 8405 SW 80th St., Ocala, from 5-10 p.m. nightly through Jan. 3. Free admission. Call 854-3670 for details. Explosion of the Flamboyans : This exhibit at the Brick City Center for the Arts continues through Jan. 2. The art is the solo work of MCA artist member Alma Lugo. The center is at 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala. Visit mcaocala.com.