“Closer to Horsey Disney”: Internet Rejoices as Off-Beat Floridian Town Marches Towards Becoming the Equestrian Capital of the World

Equestrian enthusiasts of Ocala, Florida, should be excited about the future. The World Equestrian Center Ocala has now unveiled The Shoppes Off 80th. This new project is an opulent 80,000-square-foot outdoor shopping haven that is set to grace the landscape in 2025. The expansive 378-acre complex is set to attract thousands of equestrians, enthusiasts, spectators, and families to indulge in top-notch equestrian sports, dining, shopping, and special events.

With pre-lease options currently available, retailers now have the golden opportunity to be a part of this upscale venture. After the success of World Equestrian Center Ohio, WEC Ocala was opened up in 2021. The Shoppes Off 80th is an addition to this existing project that will offer a host of services to the local community, and other equestrian enthusiasts visiting the city.

The Shoppes Off 80th: A new equestrian adventure

The Shoppes Off 80th boasts 31 exquisite new units. This effectively doubles the existing retail footprint and promises an exclusive selection of distinctive storefronts featuring luxury brands and specialty stores, all within one stunning location. World Equestrian Center – Ocala is already home to several permanent luxury retailers. The list includes revered names such as Lugano Diamonds, John Craig Clothier, Mr. Pickles and Sailor Bear Toy Shoppe, The Debonair Collection, and Ariat International.

What sets this project apart is its design concept which is nothing short of elegant, with multiple storefronts gracing a picturesque parklike promenade. Moreover, the retail destination sits adjacent to two magnificent hotels offering more than 600 rooms and suites, a day spa, seven existing restaurants, with additional dining concepts planned, Expo Centers, and a grand event center. Once completed, The Shoppes Off 80th will become a one-of-a-kind retail paradise that will redefine luxury shopping.

This new project will be open in 2025 and the management already believes that it will be the crown jewel to their existing project. The city of Ocala is also important as it is part of Marion County, which is popularly known as the horse capital of the world. People in Florida are already buzzing with this latest addition to the World Equestrian Center and made their enthusiasm known by reacting on a WEC Facebook post.

Equestrian fans react to the latest edition of WEC Ocala

As The Shoppes Off 80th is expected for a 2025 opening date, fans were quick to comment on the Facebook post announcing the project. One user had a bit of advice for the management and wrote, “They should put a Tim Hortons Cafe and Bake Shop for all the snow birds. That would be so cool to have one in Ocala. I’m sure it would be a big money maker.” Another user wrote, “Looks beautiful – I hope there’s plenty of SHADE!” One user compared the project to a theme park and commented, “getting closer and closer to horsey Disney!” Another impatient equestrian enthusiast wrote, “Cool, can’t wait!!!” One user wrote, “Water park, river pool would be awesome!!”

Read more: Miniature Horses Leave Equestrian World in Awe With Thrilling Show

The bookings for The Shoppes Off 80th is now open and this new addition will only add to the value of the WEC Ocala project. With fans already excited about the 2025 project, all signs point out that this new project will prove to be great for the local community as well.

Watch his story: Worth a Staggering $199,334,219 Retired Equestrian Legend Leads to Rare Honor

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