20 BEST THINGS THAT SHOULD DO IN TALLAHASSEE
20 BEST THINGS THAT SHOULD DO IN TALLAHASSEE, Tallahassee is a popular destination in Florida, incompletely due to its rich history as the state’s capital. It’s a family-friendly terrain with plenitude of lodestones , caffs
and other conditioning that suit anyone’s interests. The name “ Tallahassee ” comes from the Seminole Indians that migrated there in the 18th century. The word translates to “ old fields, ” or “ old city. ” This makes sense because Tallahassee is one of the oldest municipalities in the state of Florida, among Pensacola andSt. Augustine.
Tallahassee sits roughly at the halfway point between these two cities, which is how it became the state’s capital. In the 19th century, John Lee Williams of Pensacola and Dr William Simmons of St. Augustine selected Tallahassee as a central meeting point. From here, Tallahassee grew to an incorporated city in 1824 and established its first bank, capitol building and the railroad system in the 1830s. Popular things to do in Tallahassee include visiting Florida State University, history museums and outdoor parks. No matter what your vacation style, you surely don’t want to skip a visit to Tallahassee.
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA
20 THINGS TO DO IN TALLAHASSEE
1- SEE THE BEAUTY OF ONE OF FLORIDA’S OLDEST LIGHTHOUSES
Historic St. Marks Lighthouse dates back to the 1820s when this area of Florida was an important port for agricultural products.
The town of St. Marks is roughly 20 miles ( km) from Tallahassee, but worth the trip to see this gorgeous piece of history.
Today, visitors can explore the beautifully restored lighthouse and follow along with tour guides who will tell you about the lighthouse’s history, including stories of those who were the keepers of the light.
Check the calendar on the website before visiting to get more information on tour times.
Also, to preserve the historic setting, pets, food, beverages, wet clothing, smoking and vaping are not allowed.
St. Marks Lighthouse is at Lighthouse Road in Crawfordville, Florida, 32327.
2- ENJOY THE OUTDOORS AT TOM BROWN PARK
Spending a day at Tom Brown Park is a fun outing for the entire family.
The park spans 255 acres (103 ha) across the east side of Tallahassee, with plenty of recreational activities to keep you busy from sunrise to sunset.
This park is home to numerous baseball and softball fields, VeloSolutions Pump Track, tennis courts, a 24-hole disc golf course, nature trails for hiking and so much more.
There are also many large open spaces that host large community events, such as fireworks and celebrations.
The park is also dog friendly.
Tom Brown Park is at 443-557 Easterwood Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32311.
3- LEARN THE HISTORY OF FLORIDA’S OLDEST SURVIVING BANK AT THE UNION BANK OF FLORIDA MUSEUM
Union Bank Museum is another important part of Florida’s history.
Established in 1830, the bank is Florida’s oldest surviving bank.
Throughout history, the building also served as a shoe factory, beauty shop, feed store and church.
Today, the bank serves as a museum and research centre for the Florida A&M University Black Archives.
The Union Bank Of Florida Museum is at 219 Apalachee Pkwy, Tallahassee, FL 32301.
4- TAKE THE WHOLE FAMILY SEE THE STARS AT CHALLENGER LEARNING CENTER / IMAX THEATRE AND PLANETARIUM
The Challenger Learning Center of Tallahassee is an activity that should not be missed during your visit to Tallahassee.
This one-of-a-kind centre allows you to see the stars in more ways than one.
In the heart of downtown Tallahassee, the Challenger Learning Center is open to the public and serves approximately 100,000 people through its various programs.
The mission is to provide hands-on learning.
Visitors can explore a space mission simulator, demonstrational, laboratory activities, a planetarium and an IMAX movie theatre.
There are also many special events, summer camps and programs to promote learning.
The Challenger Learning Center / IMAX Theater and Planetarium is at 200 S Duval St, Tallahassee, FL 32301.
5- EXPLORE FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S LEWIS SPRING HOUSE
Renowned US architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who designed over 1,000 structures, was the designer of this remarkable residence.
This Tallahassee home was built in 1954 for the Lewis family and now offers personal and group tours.
On February 14, 1979, it joined the U.S. National Register of Historic Places list.
The two-story home is designed in the pod hemicycle style to resemble a boat.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Lewis Spring House is at 3117 Okeeheepkee Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303.
6- SHOW OFF YOUR ROLLER SKILLS AT SKATE WORLD
Skate World is a great place to burn off some energy.
If you’re travelling with children or a large group, you will want to visit Tallahassee’s premier skate park.
Anyone from beginners to pro skaters are welcome.
When you get tired from shredding the skate floor, check out the arcade room or play area for kids.
They also have private skating lessons and private rink time for those looking to advance their skills.
Skate World is located at 2563 Capital Cir NE, Tallahassee, FL 32308.
7- PICK BLUEBERRIES AND STAY THE NIGHT AT JUBILEE ORCHARDS
Jubilee Orchards is a staple of Florida with a wonderful history.
Founded by former U.S. Senator and Governor of Florida, Lawton Chiles.
Today, Chiles’ sons run the orchards with state-leading environmental practices and a passion for hospitality.
Every spring, thousands of people visit to enjoy the U-Pick blueberry experience.
Jubilee Orchards claims to have the “Best Blueberries in the South.”
You can take in all the orchard has to offer when you stay in one of two turn-of-the-century cabins.
Hike through the woods, gather ’round the fire pit for s’mores, or find peace around the beautiful ponds on the property.
Jubilee Orchards is located at 12008 Miccosukee Rd, Tallahassee,
F8- L 32309.
8- HAVE A DREAMY PICNIC AT LICHGATE ON HIGH ROAD
Transport yourself to a magical forest worthy of being the backdrop of a fairytale movie.
In the 1900s, the English-Tudor style Lichgate Cottage was built by Laura Jepsen, an FSU English professor and one of the first known preservationists.
On March 31, 2006, it was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
The grounds include butterfly, perennial and daffodil gardens, a labyrinth and a Live Oak tree you must see to believe.
The fantasy grounds of Lichgate are open to visitors from dawn until dusk every day.
During weekends, visitors can view the cottage but make sure the cottage is not booked for a private event, as this is a popular venue for gatherings, weddings, and other celebrations.
Lichgate On High Road is at 1401 High Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32304.
9- CHECK OUT THE FOUNTAINS AT CASCADE PARK
Cascades Park is where history and the future merge, a centrally located park that pays homage to its roots with modern amenities and events.
Cascades Park, located just a quarter mile from the current Capitol Building, is one of the most popular attractions in Tallahassee.
The park’s history begins with the two Florida representatives who deemed Tallahassee the middle ground between St. Augustine and Pensacola for official meetings.
History says the representatives chose this location because of a beautiful waterfall.
Today, the 24-acre ( ha) park holds a beautiful fountain to emulate the historic waterfall, Capital City Amphitheater, a family-oriented playscape, a fine-dining restaurant, and 2.3 miles of fitness trails.
Cascade Park is at 1001 S Gadsden St, Tallahassee, FL 32301.
10- INDULGE IN THE TASTIEST DONUTS AT DONUT KINGDOM
Donut Kingdom is a small, family-owned business with four locations in Tallahassee.
Their mission is to “spread happiness to the world through quality, hand-cut donuts.”
The shop makes various doughnut flavours, including assorted, specialty, vegan, jumbo and seasonal offerings.
You can find fun flavours such as Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cannoli Delight, Salted Caramel, Apple Fritter, and Potato Pumpkin Cake.
Donut Kingdom recently added ice cream to their shop, which has allowed them to add Kingdom Shakes, Coffee Floats and Donut Ice Cream Sandwiches to the menu.
Donut Kingdom is at 685 W Tennessee St, Tallahassee, FL 32304, with additional location at 3813 N. Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL, 32303, 1989 NE Capital Circle, Tallahassee, FL, 32317, 3551 S. Blairstone Rd, Tallahassee, FL, 32301.
11- STOP TO SMELL THE ROSES AT GOODWOOD MUSEUM & GARDENS
Goodwood Museum and Gardens is part of Florida’s sordid history and remains dedicated to preserving, educating, and remembering what the grounds stand for.
Originally a 1,600-acre ( 647 ha) cotton plantation owned by the Crooms family, the home is now on the National Register and serves as a museum on 20 acres (8 ha) of land.
Visitors can tour the gardens and grounds for free or tour the home with admission prices starting at $12 per adult.
Some of the sites at the museum include the main house, greenhouse, aviary, and reflecting pool.
Goodwood Museum and Gardens is also in the process of creating a permanent outdoor memorial site for the 60 enslaved persons the Crooms family brought with them to maintain the grounds.
The memorial will list the names of known enslaved persons and serve as a tribute to their lives.
Goodwood Museum & Gardens is at 1600 Miccosukee Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32308.
12- BIKE, STROLL OR RUN THROUGH THE TALLAHASSEE-ST. MARKS HISTORIC RAILROAD STATE TRAIL
This Florida State Park spans 16 miles and is situated along the historic railbed of the Tallahassee Railroad, which ran between Tallahassee and St. Marks, Florida.
The paved trail creates the perfect atmosphere for picnicking, observing wildlife, running, walking, bicycling, and skating.
The Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail is free and can be visited from 8 am until sundown, 365 days a year.
The Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail is at 4778 Woodville Hwy, Tallahassee, FL 32305.
13- GATHER ALL TALLAHASSEE’S LOCAL GOODS AT THE DOWNTOWN MARKET
Every Saturday from November to March, Ponce de Leon Park becomes the hub for local vendors to sell their goods to Tallahassee locals.
The market has over 30 tents with vendors that range from fresh produce and handmade crafts to live music and poetry readings.
The Downtown Market is open from 10 am to 2 pm.
The Downtown Market is at 115 E Park Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32301.
14- CHECK OUT THE FUNKIEST LOCALLY-OWNED ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Bella Bella is the go-to spot in Tallahassee for authentic Italian fare.
The locally owned and operated spot is known for its funky, cozy atmosphere and unmatched hospitality.
Classic menu items include Spinach and Roasted Garlic Ravioli, Chicken Parmesan, and Sicilian Lasagna.
Try the house-made red or white sangria if you’re in the mood for a drink.
Bella Bella is at 123 E 5th Ave, Tallahassee, Florida 32303.
15- TAKE IN THE BEAUTY OF THE MONARCH AT ST. MARKS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
Holding the title of one of the oldest wildlife refuges in the United States, the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge is something you won’t want to miss while visiting Tallahassee.
These grounds span over 68,000 acres (27500 ha) and were originally established in 1931 as a wintering ground for migratory birds.
The refuge is home to hiking, fishing, hunting, camping and many other activities.
One of the most popular events is the Monarch Butterfly Festival.
Strong winds provide the perfect weather for migrating birds and butterflies during the cooler months.
The majestic Monarch Butterflies take advantage of these winds and can be seen in large masses on their way to Mexico.
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge is at 1255 Lighthouse Rd, St Marks, FL 32355.
16- DRINK COCKTAILS IN SCIENCE CLASS AT WATERWORKS
Waterworks is a unique dining and nightlife destination in Tallahassee.
This iconic tiki bar encourages patrons to “party like it’s 1965”, where you can have a good time at this downtown bar any night, but Thursday nights are special at Waterworks.
Each Thursday, the bar hosts a “Science Salon” where local scientists and professors are invited to demonstrate or lecture on scientific topics while visitors enjoy fruity cocktails.
Waterworks is at 1133 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303.
17- EMBRACE FLORIDA’S UNIQUE HISTORY AND NATURE AT THE TALLAHASSEE MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND NATURAL SCIENCE
The Tallahassee Museum is an active place home to some seriously fun exhibits.
Check out the wildlife trails, history and even zipline through the trees or adventure through an aerial obstacle course!
The museum constantly has fun events taking place, including concerts, special exhibits and classes.
Admission rates start at $14.50 per adult.
The Tallahassee Museum Of History And Natural Science is at 3945 Museum Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32310.
18- HAVE A BEER AT TALLAHASSEE’S LARGEST BREWERY
Proof Brewing Company is Tallahassee’s first craft production brewery featuring a 20-barrel brew house, refined tasting room, and outdoor beer garden.
The brewpub serves modern bar fare in a rotating menu, including favourites such as Balsamic Goat Cheese Brussels, Asian Cauliflower Tacos, and Overnight Pulled Pork Sliders, along with house draft beers, hand-crafted cocktails and boutique wine.
Proof Brewing Company is at 1320 S Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL 32301.
19- MOUNTAIN BIKE ON HUNDREDS OF MILES OF TRAILS
Tallahassee is home to a large mountain biking community because of its hundreds of miles of trails to explore.
Most of the trails are maintained by the City of Tallahassee in partnership with The Tallahassee Mountain Bike Association (TMBA) to keep the community alive.
The Red Bug Trail, Munson Hills and Gun Range Trail are popular trails.
These trails range in difficulty from easy, intermediate and hard – so you can ride at your desired level, whether you are an expert peddler or just riding along for the scenery.
- Cadillac Trail East and West is at 4900 Heritage Park Blvd, Tallahassee, FL 32311.
- Red Bug Trail is at 4000 N Meridian Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32312.
- Munson Hills Off-Road Bike Trail is at State Road 13, Sopchoppy, FL 32358.
- Magnolia Trail is at 501 Easterwood Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32301.
- Gun Range Trail is at 557 Easterwood Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32311.
20- TRANSPORT YOURSELF BACK TO THE CIVIL WAR AT KNOTT HOUSE MUSEUM
In 1865, this historic home was the headquarters of the Union Army during the Civil War.
It’s also the site where Abraham Lincoln read the Emancipation Proclamation.
History enthusiasts will love this preserved home.
You can take guided tours of the property and listen to stories of the past and the significance that the Knott House played during our nation’s history.
The Knott House Museum is at 301 E Park Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32301.
