Cheap bus tickets from Ocala to Gainesville
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Bus from Ocala to Gainesville: Journey Information
There are 2 intercity buses per day from Ocala to Gainesville. Traveling by bus from Ocala to Gainesville usually takes around 21 minutes, but the fastest Tornado Bus bus can make the trip in 15 minutes.
| Distance | 34 mi (55 km) |
| Shortest duration | 0h 15m |
| Cheapest price | $62.65 |
| Trips per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Tornado Bus |
| Bus lines | 1 |
What bus companies travel from Ocala to Gainesville?
There is one intercity bus company available to search and book on Wanderu that operates from Ocala to Gainesville. Tornado Bus is the one bus line that serves this route. Although it's the sole option, there are a couple of different scheduled times to choose from.
| Bus | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tornado Bus | 2 | 0h 21m | $62.65 |
Frequently asked questions about traveling by bus from Ocala to Gainesville
The bus takes an average of 21 minutes to cover the 55 kilometers from Ocala to Gainesville. However, the fastest bus only takes 15 minutes. It's a short trip that goes by very quickly. Keep in mind that your actual bus may arrive earlier or later than scheduled, depending on whether there is more or less traffic than usual.
"Tuesday is usually the day of the week when buses are busiest. If you are planning to travel on a Tuesday, you should make sure to book tickets well in advance as they may sell out.
On the other hand, Saturday is typically the least busy day for bus travel on this route. If you’re looking for a little extra space, a Saturday ticket is the way to go."
The first bus leaves at 5:00pm and the last bus leaves at 5:00pm. To see the times for all buses from Ocala to Gainesville, enter your specific travel dates in the search bar.
City Information
Ocala
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Forest Service, USDA
Link to image attribution
Image credit: National Forests in Florida
Link to image attributionOcala is where the Florida of theme parks and Gulf of Mexico beaches gives way to the other Florida where traditional southern charm continues to make itself known. Located in the north of the state, just shy of the Florida panhandle, Ocala was established in 1849.
Formerly rich in plantations and citrus fruit orchards, today Ocala is a gateway to Florida's natural landscapes, such as the Rainbow Springs State Park and the Ocala National Forest.
One of the state's largest areas of protected forest, the Ocala National Forest spans a mesmerizing 600 square miles of unspoiled woodland crossed by almost innumerable rivers, footpaths, mountain biking tracks, and horse trails. Learn how to bring your bike on the bus or train with you to save money on renting one there.
But that's not to say central Ocala is free of attractions. The Ocala Historic District contains a blend of residential and non-residential buildings worth exploring. For example, The Appleton Museum of Art has a collection stretching from pre-Columbian tribal objects to the latest in modernism.
If all this has you checking out tickets to Ocala, you'll be happy to hear the city is well served by both bus and train routes. You can catch a bus to anywhere from Tallahassee to Houston, while trains connect the area to places like Winter Haven and Baltimore.
Gainesville
Blessed with amazing natural landmarks and a vibrant cultural life, Gainesville offers a whole new Florida experience that is far from the decadence often associated with the state. If you wish to explore creative works made by local artists, head over to the Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention, which features great exhibitions that dive into the life of many inventors and entrepreneurs. Another great museum to visit is the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art. For those who want to marvel at the city’s natural landmarks, go for a hiking trip along the trails of Alfred A. Ring Park, or the Barr Hammock Preserve.
Gainesville’s local favorite is the 4 Rivers Smokehouse, which offers delicious briskets. For some of the freshest local dishes, head over to Alpin Bistro.
The main bus station in Gainesville is the Greyhound Bus Terminal located on NE 23rd Ave, which welcomes buses from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Houston and beyond. There is no rail service to Gainesville. However, the city is part of Amtrak’s network via the carrier’s Thruway bus service, which operates out of the same station. The main airport is the Gainesville Regional Airport, which lies in the northeast part of the city.
Station Information
Where does the bus leave from in Ocala?
Main departure station: 4185 W Silver Springs Blvd
Most buses depart from the main station in Ocala.
All bus stations in Ocala:
4185 W Silver Springs Blvd
Where does the bus arrive in Gainesville?
Main arrival station: 3509 SW Williston Rd
The station at 3509 SW Williston Rd is a small bus stop where Tornado buses pick up passengers in Gainesville. It is located in front of a Circle K convenience store, allowing travelers to wait in safety for their buses. Between the convenience store’s offerings and the nearby deli, you can stock up on snacks or a quick meal before your trip. The station is about 5 miles southwest of downtown Gainesville; if your destination is near the University of Florida, the city’s bustling Main Street, or one of the surrounding golf courses, you may want to open up a rideshare app to continue onward from the Circle K station.
Bus stations in Gainesville:
3509 SW Williston Rd
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Need a return trip from Gainesville to Ocala?
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