Situated in the heart of Florida, Belleview prides itself as the “city with small-town charm.”
It was founded in 1884 near Nine Mile Pond, presently known as Lake Lillian, nine miles from the larger city of Ocala.
While there’s an account that Belleview was named after the daughter of one of the founders, the city derived its name from the French words “belle” and “view,” which mean “beautiful vistas.”
If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature, Belleview has recreational parks and facilities you can visit with your family and friends, as its name suggests.
You can also do some window shopping or find great deals across the area’s specialty stores and flea markets.
To complete your travel experience, don’t forget to try some of its finest restaurants famous among residents.
Learn more about the best things to do in Belleview, Florida!
Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Situated along Robinson Road, Lake Lillian is a picturesque spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
There are several facilities you can use in the area, such as picnic tables for you to have a worthwhile time over a basket of food with your family and friends.
A large pavilion is available for reservation for big celebrations.
Lake Lillian also has a playground where kids can play, socialize, and make new friends.
Take time to stroll along the paved walking trail lined with trees and enjoy the scenic view of the lake at the small fishing dock.
Cool down and create a core memory with your kids at Wilma Loar Splash Park, located by Lake Lillian near the water tower.
The park opened to the public in 2016 and was the idea of former Belleview City Commissioner Wilma Loar.
Visitors are entertained by the splash pad that sprays water up, and kids can play around with the dripping umbrella feature.
Kids will be amused by the frog-like structure at Wilma Loar Splash Park.
There are shaded picnic tables where you can rest, chat, or have a quick snack.
Located on 113th Place, Fred King Park is an excellent spot you can visit with your kids.
Local government employees, several local businesses, and city residents worked together to build this small park with a playground.
It has swings and different climbing areas to engage kids in physical activities, which are said to boost their creativity and coordination skills.
While the kids play at Fred King Park, parents can chat and socialize with other visitors.
Feeling hungry?
You can dine at Belleview Pizza & Italian Restaurant along Abshier Boulevard, which is popular with the locals.
The restaurant has been serving hand-tossed pizzas since 1975.
One of their specialty pizzas is the Greek Pizza, topped with mozzarella, fresh sliced tomato, feta, garlic, ham, kalamata olives, and oregano.
Aside from their pizzas, you can order subs, pasta, baked pasta dishes with ricotta and mozzarella cheese, and parmigiana.
Belleview Pizza & Italian Restaurant’s calzones come with ricotta and mozzarella cheese, and you can also order salads, appetizers, and desserts from the menu.
If you are visiting a new city, one of the best activities is to check out its local flea markets for a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.
Aside from having the chance to find hidden gems and unique items, you catch sight of the city’s local culture and history.
Moreover, you get to interact with the community.
The Market of Marion, found along US Highway 441, has over 1,100 booths with more than 400 dealers.
Feast your eyes on the diverse range of items you can find here, such as antiques, furniture, clothes, toys, and jewelry.
You can also buy the freshest fruits and vegetables from local farmers and have the chance to enjoy the special events hosted in The Market of Marion.
Mi Pueblo Flea Market is a recent addition to the city worth checking out.
It opened its second location along US Highway 441 in 2021, selling different kinds of items such as fresh fruits and vegetables, clothing, accessories, homewares, tools, and toys.
Mi Pueblo Flea Market brands itself as the favorite flea market of Hispanics.
It makes itself distinct by having live music, an inflatable play area for kids, horses, carousels, and pony rides, so visitors have a worthwhile experience.
Aside from shopping, you can turn your trip here into a quick gastronomic journey as the market presents an opportunity to taste the flavors of different cuisines, such as Mexican, Peruvian, Puerto Rican, Salvadoran, and Cuban food.
Plan a visit to Mossy Oaks Antique Mall at 118th Place if antique shopping is your hobby.
The mall spans 8,000 square feet with more than 40 dealers offering a variety of antiques, vintage items, collectibles, and upcycled merchandise.
Find joy in rummaging through furniture, kitchen wares, handcrafted decorations, and many more while appreciating the beauty of these old pieces.
Items at Mossy Oaks Antique Mall are reasonably priced for your treasure hunting.
You may find pieces to build an artistic space of your own or the perfect gift for your loved ones.
Bask in the atmosphere of local artistry at All About Art near Abshier Boulevard.
The art gallery opened its doors in 2000 with the vision of showcasing the skills of local artists.
Spend the day admiring every kind of artistry in the shop, such as paintings, pottery, sculptures, jewelry, and clothing.
The place, described as “funky” and “eclectic,” never runs out of interesting and unique items that are perfect as gifts or souvenirs.
All About Art also hosts some events and art classes.
Just around All About Art, you can drop by B D Bean’s Coffee Company for a quick relaxation while having your coffee, espresso, or tea drink.
The coffee shop has a quaint atmosphere and displays different kinds of art.
It has several items on the menu for breakfast and brunch to suit different taste buds, such as soups, salads, and sandwiches.
B D Bean’s Coffee Company offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options for customers on a special diet.
Garden patio seating is also available if you want to eat outdoors while enjoying the morning breeze.
Your furry friends are welcome to come over as the cafe allows leashed dogs on their patio.
If you want to watch some games, you may visit the 80-acre Belleview Sports Complex along 107th Street.
This park houses several softball, baseball, football, and soccer leagues, and there are also basketball and tennis courts.
You can check the league fields by walking down the trail that weaves through and around the park.
Kids will also have fun at the Belleview Sports Complex’s playground and picnic areas.
Stalls are likewise present if you need food and drinks after walking around, as well as restrooms.
Set a movie date with your friends or family at Belleview Cinema along US Highway 441.
It may be small and old, but it offers its customers a cozy and comfortable watching experience.
Most importantly, Belleview Cinema shows up-to-date movies at a fair price for those on a budget.
Snacks and refreshments are available on-site to complete your viewing experience.
You may coordinate with the theater’s team if you wish to hold special events such as a private screening with your special someone.
A few steps from Belleview Cinema, you can check out Chicken Time Cuban & Puerto Rican Restaurant, which has served Latin food for more than 28 years.
The restaurant celebrates a unique mix of Cuban and Puerto Rican flavors in its dishes and takes pride in its authentic recipes from both countries.
Unlike what its name suggests, the restaurant does not only offer chicken recipes.
There are also mouth-watering dishes made from beef, pork, seafood, vegetables, and many other ingredients.
You can try and choose from several items on its menu: appetizers, entrées, sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts.
Chicken Time Cuban & Puerto Rican Restaurant brands itself as the “House of the Original Cuban Sandwiches and Tripleta Sandwich,” so try one in case you drop by.
Eating together as a family has many benefits, especially in strengthening relationships and encouraging conversation.
If you want to dine in at a place with a casual family atmosphere, check out Pasta Faire Italian Ristorante.
Located along US Highway 441, it has been serving authentic Italian cuisine since 1991.
Italian native Paul D’Alto founded the restaurant, which aims to provide great food, service, and specials and value for families to enjoy delicious meals.
Start your meal at Pasta Faire Italian Ristorante with delicious appetizers, such as garlic knots with signature sauce or tender rings of fried calamari.
Rotisserie chicken, pasta dishes, and gourmet pizzas also headline their menu.
On the lookout for handcrafted soaps?
Oneness Essentials is the store for you.
The local skincare brand opened its new shop in Belleview near Hames Road in 2021.
It used to sell its products online for several years.
The business came to life from its owners’ personal need for quality skincare for sensitive skin.
Oneness Essentials doesn’t only offer unique soaps; it also sells several bath and body products such as bath bombs, lotions, body butter, and lip balms.
Products are made of simple ingredients, but the store promises a premium experience to its buyers.
If you’re up for some thrilling adventure in nature, plan a visit to Santos Trailhead & Campground—an excellent place for mountain biking and camping.
Belleview lies close to Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, home to Florida National Scenic Trail and Santos Trails, making it a great outdoor destination.
Developed through a partnership with the Ocala Mountain Bike Association, Santos Trailhead has a web of diverse bike trails for both beginners and elite riders.
You won’t have to worry about finding facilities since there are restrooms, potable water, and picnic pavilions that are perfect for socializing with other visiting bikers.
Bike shops are available nearby if you need to buy supplies or need to do repairs.
Moreover, you can access the Florida Trail, a congressionally designated and long-distance hiking trail that weaves its way across Florida.
The Florida Trail is considered a national treasure, as one of only 11 National Scenic Trails nationwide.
Aside from mountain biking, you can also do picnics in the pavilions available at Santos Trailhead.
Wildlife viewing is also a recommended activity for visitors.
If you plan to stay overnight, there is a 25-site campground beside the trailhead with access to water and electricity.
A bathhouse and dump station are likewise available on site.
Situated between Belleview and Ocala, Santos Trailhead & Campground can be found west off US Highway 441 on Southeast 80th Street, across the Marion County Sheriff’s Santos Station.
Visiting Belleview is a testament that you don’t need to visit a large city to have an enjoyable vacation.
This small yet charming city has many places you can visit, whether you want to see movies, visit scenic spots, go on a shopping spree, or bring out your sporty side.
It is also a prominent destination for outdoor recreation, such as mountain climbing and camping.
Pack your bags and try all the best things to do in Belleview, Florida!
Discover the world.
© All rights reserved.
