OCALA, FL. (352 Today) — College football officially returns this weekend, and across Ocala, the energy surrounding the start of the 2025 season is unmistakable.
With the University of Florida opening its season in Gainesville, just a short drive north of Marion County, the local fan base is gearing up for another fall of SEC football. Though the Gators aren’t featured in one of the national headline games this weekend, their home opener adds to a weekend full of highly anticipated matchups.
Week 1 of the 2025 college football season includes several key games to watch:
- Alabama at Florida State (Aug. 30): Florida State, coming off a 2-10 season in 2024, faces an early challenge against Alabama. Both programs look to reassert themselves nationally.
- Texas at Ohio State (Aug. 30): The defending national champion Buckeyes face playoff regular Texas, with quarterback Arch Manning expected to make his debut as a starter.
- TCU at North Carolina (Sept. 1): Bill Belichick’s head coaching debut in college football draws national attention as the longtime NFL coach leads UNC in a primetime Labor Day matchup.
Gators fans and college football enthusiasts not making the trip to Gainesville can still enjoy the action at several Ocala establishments offering full game-day experiences.
Where to Watch College Football in Ocala: Ten Top Spots for Game Day
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1. The Lodge Brick City Craft Pub & Eatery
Location: 36 S Magnolia Ave
Located in the heart of downtown Ocala, The Lodge offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of TVs, food and drink specials, and strong Florida Gators fan support.
2. Gators Dockside Ocala
Location: 3920 SW 42nd St
This sports-themed chain with deep Gator roots features a wide menu, drink deals, and multiple screens dedicated to college football Saturdays.
3. 18 South Sports Bar
Location: 20 S Magnolia Ave
A smaller, locally known venue with a loyal fan base, 18 South offers drinks, snacks, and wall-to-wall sports coverage for every major conference.
4. Mojo’s Grill & Catering Co.
Location: 2015 SW 17th St
With Gators memorabilia throughout the restaurant, Mojo’s offers an energetic, family-friendly option for watching the game and grabbing a bite.
5. Miller’s Ale House – Ocala
Location: 305 SE 17th St
A national favorite for game-day viewing, Miller’s features an extensive menu and an array of TVs tuned to major SEC, ACC, and national games.
6. The Dugout Family Sports Bar and Grill
Location: 6833 SE. Maricamp Rd.
This classic sports bar offers affordable food, numerous TVs, and a laid-back setting perfect for watching multiple games in one spot.
7. Bank Street Patio Bar
Location: 120 E Fort King St
With rooftop seating and game-day specials, Bank Street provides a scenic, social space for fans to catch games under the open sky.
8. Black Sheep on Broadway
Location: 128 SW Broadway St
Known for its casual atmosphere and large indoor viewing areas, Black Sheep draws a consistent crowd for major college football weekends.
9. Terry’s Place
Location: 4121 NE 36th Ave
A no-frills favorite among locals, Terry’s Place serves up hearty American fare and provides a reliable environment for watching the Gators and more.
10. District Bar and Kitchen
Location: 110 SW Broadway St
This newer addition to the Ocala dining scene has quickly become a go-to for sports fans, with modern décor, quality food, and multiple screens for game day.
The full Florida Gators 2025 football schedule is available at floridagators.com, and most major games will be broadcast on ESPN, ABC, CBS, or available via streaming platforms.
With both local and national teams in action, Ocala is set for a strong start to another college football season.