Most travelers to Central Florida head straight to Orlando and Disney World. But there’s another world-class facility located just over an hour’s drive north of the Magic Kingdom that shouldn’t be missed. The World Equestrian Center in Ocala is the largest equestrian complex in the U.S. In fact, it was named one of the “World’s Greatest Places” by Time magazine in 2024.
Spread over nearly 400 verdant acres, this horse lover’s fantasy features 22 indoor and outdoor arenas, including the 128,000-square-foot Grand Arena; nearly 3,000 climate-controlled stables; exposition centers; a veterinary hospital; a chapel; and, as of February 2026, a massive 300,000-square-foot event space that’s ideal for corporate gatherings, proms, and weddings. And with more than 600 guest rooms across two luxurious accommodations — the Equestrian Hotel and the Riding Academy Hotel — and an additional 300 RV slips, there are plenty of options for overnight stays.
In May 2021, the WEC opened the Equestrian Hotel. A resort unto itself, the AAA Four-Diamond hotel showcases elegant European styling and offers three dining options, high-end retailers, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a spa and salon, and much more. But with room rates starting at close to $400 per night during the hot summer months, and a no pets in the rooms policy, the Equestrian Hotel had limitations.
That’s where the Riding Academy Hotel comes in. Guests can experience all that WEC offers but at a more approachable price point — and with Fido in tow. And all without sacrificing the comfort and style for which WEC is known.
Staying at The Riding Academy
Opened in March 2024, the Riding Academy sits near the WEC’s main entrance on NW 80th Avenue. The large, gleaming white structure showcases the same elegant neoclassical architecture that permeates all of WEC’s buildings. The interiors were designed by Ric Owens of Roberts Design Group. The firm is responsible for all properties across the campus.
While the grand lobby of the Equestrian Hotel sets the tone with polished black marble floors, sparkling chandeliers, and gold-accented Louis XVI-influenced furnishings, the Riding Academy welcomes with a more relaxed Ralph Lauren-inspired look. Dark woods are accented with a deep green, gold, and red color palette. Tufted leather seating anchors the room, while custom equestrian-theme wallpaper and plaid accents add a touch of classic American heritage. Keep your eyes open for subtle equestrian touches, such as stirrup-shaped lamp bases and technical drawings of saddle parts.
Built in a U-shape around a central outdoor pool, the hotel offers 390 suites and studios. The rooms themselves are sophisticated yet comfortable. The look is subdued, with wood-look floors — perfect for pets — soft beiges, and rich chocolate brown touches. Some decor elements are found in both hotels: for example, guest beds all include a leather-accented throw pillow, and the bedside lamps feature a shiny silver, winner ’s-cup-shaped base. And all rooms in the Riding Academy and Equestrian Hotel include a coffee maker and a Sub-Zero mini fridge.
The bathrooms are the same in both properties. Clad in marble with sparkling silver fixtures, the spacious rooms include large walk-in showers, illuminated mirrors, and plush white linens.
Dining Options
The Riding Academy does not have any on-site dining venues. For a quick morning bite, evening snack, or drink, there is The Tack Room. This grab-and-go cafe offers light bites and beverages from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Breakfast includes bagels, pastries, and coffee, while afternoons and evenings bring a choice of flatbreads, sandwiches, sweet desserts, and wine and cocktails.
For more substantial meals, WEC offers a wide variety of eateries, from fine dining restaurants to casual cafeterias. The new event space, the Equestrian Manor, sits just a literal step away from the hotel. It offers four signature restaurants. On the ground floor, guests will find The Polo Pony, an elevated tavern that offers classic American dishes such as burgers, fried chicken, lobster rolls, and an extremely rich and decadent 16-layer chocolate cake. On the opposite side of the grand staircase is Emma’s Patisserie, a second, larger location of the beloved French-inspired bakery. Don’t miss the handmade macarons, Italian gelato, or freshly baked breads. James Beard Award-nominated executive chef Yohann Le Bescond oversees all the desserts across all WEC properties, including wedding cakes at the Equestrian Manor.
For an unforgettable night, head upstairs where you’ll find Genievieve’s. Here, the refined menu of Italian specialties is overshadowed only by the sweeping views from the terrace. Start with the Ricotta Croquettes and Rosti Fritti before moving on to the must-have Duck Agnolotti. Then try the Filet ai Funghi, a pan-roasted tenderloin with oyster mushrooms, or the Fish of the Day. And don’t forget to have one of Le Bescond’s handmade cannoli for dessert.
If pan-Asian cuisine is more your style, The White Willow will be sure to please. This rooftop restaurant features a menu filled with favorites such as Korean Pork Belly Bao, Wagyu Gyoza, Kung Pao, Sweet and Sour Chicken, and a large selection of rolls and sashimi. Can’t decide what to eat? Try one of the chef’s multicourse tasting menus. But the showstopper is Le Bescond’s Fortune Cookie Dessert. This massive cookie comes with a side of fresh fruit and chocolates. Crack it open with your spoon to reveal your fortune.
More dining options are available in the Equestrian Hotel and at stand-alone eateries throughout the property. For more details, see our earlier review of that hotel.
If You Go to The Riding Academy
Rooms at The Riding Academy start at around $200 per night for a studio and $500 for a two-bedroom suite, depending on the season. Prices increase during equestrian events and holidays, while specials, including free nights and special rates for local residents, are available on WEC’s website.
Check rates for the Riding Academy Hotel online at Expedia, Booking.com, Agoda.com, or Hotels.com.
ADA-accessible rooms are available. Dogs are welcome with an additional $150 nonrefundable per-dog fee. Valet parking is also available for $30 per night.
