The Riding Academy Hotel

I wholeheartedly recommend this hotel. Our family of four, along with our two dogs, stayed here this weekend, and we had a fantastic experience. From the moment we arrived, the front desk staff made us feel incredibly welcome, especially Sandra, who went above and beyond to ensure our stay was as comfortable as possible. The housekeeping staff was professional and very accommodating—particularly the team on the 4th floor, where we stayed. Olivia (which I believe was a manager) was also amazing helping us extend our checkout time. Our room and bathroom were both spacious and tastefully decorated, offering plenty of comfort. The room was well-equipped with a Keurig coffee maker and a sub zero fridge (though I do wish the microwave was included without an additional fee). The hotel is also very dog-friendly, with a lovely dog park on-site that our pets enjoyed. There are several great restaurants in area with reasonable prices and high quality food. (Only exception to the food was an acai bowl we order at the market. Unfortunately it was frozen and my daughter wasn't able to eat on the spot. They should mention that the acai bowl is frozen on the menu or let you know when you order it). It’s worth noting that the location is a bit far from stores and fast food restaurants in the area. Overall, it was a wonderful stay, and we would definitely return.

I stayed at this hotel as I heard great things, and it was close to where I had to go for work. I had an exceptional experience from start to finish. After a long day of awful traffic and missing Thanksgiving with my family, I arrived in a pretty bad mood. Amanda H. at the front desk greeted me the moment I walked in and completely turned my day around. Her warm welcome, compassion, and upbeat personality made me feel genuinely cared for. She was extremely knowledgeable about the property and upcoming events, and she kindly took the time to listen while I vented. The room she placed me in was wonderful—beautiful view, incredibly comfortable bed, and the perfect space to unwind. I was also able to enjoy the Winter Wonderland Christmas lights and the vaulting show, both of which were impressive and memorable. Amanda went above and beyond by offering two discount toy store tickets so I could bring home gifts for my young kids. When I mentioned how much I loved the crosses and wanted to bring some back to my local congregation of about 20 people up north, she didn’t hesitate to provide a set for me to share—something I truly appreciated and found incredibly thoughtful. An outstanding stay all around. Highly recommend!

My family and our dog stayed this past weekend and had a wonderful time and experience with the hotel. This was our second weekend stay and continues to exceed expectations. The staff is genuinely welcoming and friendly. Both of our stays we were very impressed with the cleanliness of our rooms and were very comfortable. The hotel is decorated beautifully for Christmas and we had a great time enjoying the Christmas celebrations over the weekend. All the decorations were so pretty and make for awesome holiday photos, the music and the meet and greet with the Grinch was hilarious and very well done even my dog enjoyed it! The only issue we had over the weekend was with the Yellow Pony Pub and although the manager there did not seem to care when we brought it to the attention of the hotel manager Albert and Amanda they genuinely cared about our experience and did everything they could to make it right. We really appreciated that kind of care and it speaks volumes of the way the hotel appreciates their guests. The entire property is beautifully maintained and theres so much to see and do. The hotel is exceptional and we will continue to enjoy weekends here!

We stayed here for the Food and Wine Festival package, and everything was absolutely wonderful! The hotel is beautiful and feels brand new. The staff was professional, kind, and very accommodating. Our 4th-floor room was cozy, elegant, and tastefully decorated with an equestrian touch — a perfect blend of comfort and style. The room included a Keurig, refrigerator, safe, and a surprisingly spacious closet. The modern bathroom was spotless, with great counter space and a large shower featuring both a rain head and a handheld wand. Every detail was thoughtful. We had such a wonderful time and can’t wait to come back!

Nice hotel, have stayed here before. Booked another stay only to have it cancelled. Went back online, booked again, cancelled again. They said they are having IT glitches. Figure it out please because I made travel arrangements and now need to scramble to figure out something. Why can someone book a room online that isn’t actually available? We love the WEC, love this hotel, but sharing so others are aware. Update: I made alternative (non refundable) arrangements, and a few hrs later they call me saying they have a room for me if I want it. Man, would have been nice to know that any time within 20 hours of my cancellation. I also cancelled a golf cart rental. Would have loved to stay here and it was my first choice. I’ll visit again sometime but they need to work out their online reservation system.

We stayed at the Riding Academy Hotel last weekend and had adjoining rooms with a suite, which was truly perfect for our family. It gave the kids their own space, gave us comfort, and made everything feel easy the moment we arrived. But the heart of our stay was the pool. Even in the Florida winter chill, the pool was bath-water warm. Not just “heated,” but genuinely warm and inviting the second you stepped in—like summer in the middle of winter. The water was crystal clear, the pool area was spotless, and you can tell the servicing and maintenance must be impeccable because everything felt fresh, clean, and perfectly cared for. I’m 68, and I swam laps. And while I did, I watched the kids playing in the pool—really playing—laughing the way they used to, completely carefree. It hit me in the sweetest way: moments like that don’t happen as often as they once did, and suddenly there it was… a memory being made right in front of me. We love the Equestrian Hotel as well, but for the price point, the Riding Academy Hotel certainly rivaled it—if not beat it—when it comes to comfort and amenities. We will absolutely return.

The hotel is a definite Ralph Lauren vibe. Beautiful! Stay there for an equestrian event or Winter Wonderland. Large pool, beautiful outdoor fireplace. You can rent golf carts to drive around the property $30 hr. Lovely, would definitely stay there again

My wife and I stayed the night of 12/23/25 to see the Winter Wonderland.Michael G. checked us in and was very professional and helpful along with Michele B. The Hotel is absolutely gorgeous and spotless. We always saw staff during, mopping and just making everything perfect. Our room was amazing as was the Winter Wonderland. I just wish there was a sit down restaurant that served breakfast. Shuttle drivers were also awesome.

This hotel is amazing. Upon entering it gives you that feeling of a warm hug, warm and comforting. The suite we stayed in is beautiful, clean and high end. One of the best hotels I stayed in. The only thing I wish that is included in the room is a microwave. They already have a wine fridge in the room to keep leftover food and wine fresh. Customer service is professional but friendly. It is pet friendly so bring your precious furry pets with you they will love it.

The blend of elegant British castle-inspired architecture and equestrian-themed decor sets a unique tone. Ample parking surrounding the hotel grounds with close proximity to entry doors. The large lit Christmas tree at the entrance made a striking first impression, and the tranquil grounds provided a welcoming environment. The check-in process was efficient, and the warmth from the lobby fireplace was comforting, especially during the cold weather. Ultra dog friendly hotel with doggy treats at every turn in the lobby making my pup a happy guest. The Tack Room Market provided a convenient and cozy spot for guests to enjoy snacks and drinks while mingling in the lobby. The lodging director, Olivia, was super friendly and professional, providing me with an array of facts about the hotel and upcoming projects. The guest room's classic yet stylish design, with wood and marble flooring, added to the sense of luxury and comfort. The hotel's proximity to the World Equestrian Center and upcoming Event Center shows that it's well situated for guests attending various events, which makes it very appealing for those visiting the area.

Get your hats ready because a lil bit of Kentucky has moved to Ocala! The World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Fl is host to one of the most beautiful equestrians I've ever seen! The detail is immaculate making you feel as if you have stepped into royalty and once inside you are the kings and queens. I had the wonderful opportunity to stay at one of the hotels on the premises properly named, "The Riding Academy." The decor beautifully dawned throughout with art of horses, and portraits of dogs living their best life lol! Speaking of dogs, they too can check into the hotel. There is a designated area in the grab and go bar with luxury food and treats. Dogs with their owners can be seen walking around enjoying themselves. You will also find a splash pad for children outside the corridors as well as an ornate fireplace for nighttime relaxation. The rooms are spacious and the bed super comfy making extended stays a breeze. One of the very best parts of my stay was the staff. Very attentive to each guest needs. Mara, the front desk coordinator directed me to Stitrups for the best breakfast potatoes(and she was right) and Olivia, the director of lodging genuinely inquired about my stay; let either of them know if you need anything! This place is continuously growing and I can't wait to see all the buildings once completed. The property is so vast that guest are whizzing around in golf carts going from one arena to another. Although my stay was superb you can enjoy visiting for the day, grabbing some lunch and dropping in for a barrel race! This West coast meets East coast in Ocala girl couldn't be happier. Do yourself a favor and just come already; it's so worth it!!

Lovely equestrian themed hotel The staff at the check in desk are full of knowledge about the hotel and center. Full of information if you ask Quite a big place. I got turned around a few times and needed directions I suggest a golf cart rental to get around the equestrian center The rooms are pet friendly and lovely. Refrigerator in room. The desk staff will microwave anything that needs heating Pool is outside and have tables and chairs Several fitness rooms Plenty of free parking 100 channels on the tv Very new and clean upscale hotel Not as fancy as the main hotel but still wonderful

This is a really great hotel located on the grounds of the World Equestrian Center. There are several restaurants on the grounds and equestrians riding all around. The food is good (we had Mexican and the Tack Room) and the customer service is good also. Not much to do outside of here, but a good stay when in town for the race.

We loved our stay at this unique hotel. It is clean, beautifully appointed, and the staff is nice. The rooms are lovely and the beds are comfy too. Thank you for a great stay.

In preparing for my mother's arrival the day after Christmas and her need for fluids for dialysis treatment I called the hotel to inquire where I should have the medical supplies delivered. The front desk indicated that in order for the supplies to be available upon my mother's arrival that the hotel address should be used to the supplier. I was notified by the supplier that the four boxes were delivered on December 23rd. Unfortunately, when I went to the front desk on December 26th to ask about the boxes I was told they could not be found. At that time I then began calling the supplier and inquired if there was a signature on the delivery confirmation. Unfortunately, there was not a required signature and again the front desk informed me that they could not be found. My mother had to forego her dialysis treatment and we were told by her doctor that there may be the necessary fluids available in the Ocala area. Of course, with the holiday we were going to have to wait until Monday, December 29th, which would mean my mother would miss two treatments. On the third inquiry at the front desk my mother was rudely told that the materials were not there and as far as they were concerned "the case was closed". On Saturday, December 27th my mother received a call that the boxes were found and she could come get them at the front desk. If I had not done my due diligence and called the hotel prior to arrival to inquire where the medical supplies should be shipped, then I would understand the confusion. These were large boxes and very important to the health of my mother. There was no apology from the hotel manager which was very disappointing to me.

The property is exceptional, meticulously maintained, and boasts a welcoming atmosphere and outstanding hospitality.

The cafe at The Riding Academy Hotel at WEC has THE BEST LATTES IN OCALA!! Their espresso machine delivers the perfect grind and brew!!!