The state capital of Florida, known as Tallahassee, has the third-tallest building in the U.S. The city’s name comes from “Old Fields,” which means “Old Towns,” derived from the Muskogean word.
It’s also known for its rolling hills; its highest peak is around 200 feet above sea level.
There are plenty of affordable and fun things to do in Tallahassee, Florida, and it’s easy to find something for everyone in your family. From historical sites to parks, there’s something for everyone in this area.
Now, let’s learn more about these exciting activities in Tallahassee, Florida!
Where Is Tallahassee, Florida?
The capital city of Florida is known as Tallahassee. It’s located in Leon County, the only incorporated municipality. In 1824, it became the state’s capital and was called the Florida Territory.
In 2020, the population of this city was almost 200,000. It’s regarded as one of the largest cities in the state of Florida and one of the country’s largest cities.
The city of Tallahassee has a total area of 98.2 square miles. Of this, 95.7 square miles is land, and 2.5 square miles is water.
Fun Things to Do in Tallahassee, FL
There are plenty of fun things to do in Tallahassee, Florida, such as visiting the Museum of Natural Science and History in Tallahassee.
You can also take a break from your busy schedule and enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.
The following are the best and fun things to do in Tallahassee:
1. Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
Alfred Maclay Gardens State Park is located on Thomasville Road. It’s a historic site and botanical garden, and it’s also a Florida State Park.
The gardens are part of a U.S. Historic District, and it’s called the Killearn Plantation Archaeological and Historic District.
Established in 1823, the Maclay Gardens are known for their azaleas, camellias, and various tree species, such as dogwood, Japanese maples, and more.
The park features 18 historic buildings, and four other structures are also noteworthy.
The Native Plant Arboretum features other interesting plants, such as the Eastern red-colored columbine.
Address: The Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park is located at 3540 Thomasville Road, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
Since you’re planning a visit to Florida, why not also check out Things to Do in Weston and Things to Do in Brandon?
2. Tallahassee Museum of History and Natural Science
One of the top attractions in the city of Tallahassee is the Museum of Natural Science and History, located on Museum Drive.
It features a natural habitat zoo, an environmental science center, and several historic buildings.
The museum’s goal is to educate the public about the natural and cultural history of the area located in Tallahassee.
One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the Big Ben Farm, which features various farm buildings and animals. This exhibit shows rural life in northern Florida during the 1800s.
Address: The Tallahassee Museum of History and Natural Science is located at 3945 Museum Drive, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
3. Challenger Learning Center
The Challenger Learning Center is also located on South Duval Street. It’s an outreach program of Florida A&M University’s College of Engineering.
It promotes interest in science, technology, engineering, and math. This 32,000-square-foot facility is a fun place to visit in Tallahassee.
The center features various educational programs and exhibits, such as an IMAX 3D Theater and a Space Mission Simulator.
It also has a variety of hands-on activities for children, such as free scouting merit badges and camps.
The Space Mission Simulator is available during the Saturday Public Mission, allowing kids to participate in a mission conducted by NASA.
Address: The Challenger Learning Center is located at 200 South Duval Street, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
4. Tallahassee Antique Car Museum
The Automobile Museum of Florida is a car-themed museum located on Mahan Drive. It was opened in 1996 and featured various donated items.
In 2007, it moved into its new facility, which features 100,000 square feet of exhibit space.
Most of the exhibits are American-made cars, as well as various items that celebrate American culture.
The museum’s collection includes over 140 automobiles, including the Batmobiles and the funeral hearse that Abraham Lincoln used.
It also has other interesting items, such as an antique cash register and a collection of Case knives.
The museum can accommodate various events, such as private parties and corporate meetings.
Address: The Tallahassee Antique Car Museum is located at 6800 Mahan Drive, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
5. St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge
The St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1931. It features over 68,000 acres of coastal environments typical of the Gulf of Mexico.
Some of the structures that can be found in this area include the St. Marks Lighthouse, which is the second-oldest lighthouse in Florida.
Refuge is an excellent place for migratory birds to winter. It also houses various animals, such as bobcats, coyotes, and alligators.
It’s also a popular fishing area, with a boat ramp near the lighthouse. Multiple trails are suitable for both cyclists and hikers.
Photographers and painters often visit this area to take amazing wildlife pictures.
Address: The St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge is located at Wakulla County, Jefferson County, Taylor County, Florida, USA.
6. The Grove Museum
The Grove Museum is located in Florida and focuses on the history of the 1800s. Its exhibits can educate visitors about the country’s importance of civil rights and slavery.
One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the Call-Collins House, which enslaved individuals built.
It was previously known as the best-preserved antebellum house in the state. In 2017, it was opened as The Grove Museum.
After viewing the historic home, visitors can take a walk through the gardens and view the various wildlife and plants found here.
The museum is open from 9 am to 5 pm on Wednesday to Saturday. General admission is free.
Address: The Grove Museum is located at 902 N. Monroe, Tallahassee, Florida, 32303, USA.
7. Railroad Square Art District
One of the most creative and liveliest areas in Tallahassee is the Railroad Square Art District.
This area used to be a warehouse district, and local entrepreneurs and artists can now exhibit their work through multiple shops and galleries.
There are also various activities available in this area, such as an indoor rock-climbing gym and a vintage pinball arcade.
Another popular establishment is the CrumboxGastgarden, an eclectic cafe built from an old railroad caboose.
The Railroad Square Craft House is another popular establishment that serves a variety of craft beers and pub food.
Address: The Railroad Square Art District is located at 602 McDonnell Drive, Tallahassee, Florida, 32310, USA.
8. Natural Bridge Battlefield Historic State Park
This historic park was once the site of Florida’s second-largest civil war battle. The park showcases the state’s history and unique attractions, such as sinkholes, springs, and the St. Marks River.
It’s also home to reenactors who perform historical re-enactings of the 1865 battle, which took place at Natural Bridge.
The park’s waters are filled with multiple fish species, such as the Florida black bass. The park is also home to various wildlife and plants.
It’s also great for people to enjoy a picnic and fishing. The park is open from 8 am to 6 pm every day.
Address: The Natural Bridge Battlefield Historic State Park is located at 7502 Natural Bridge Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32305, USA.
9. Cascades Park
The Cascades Park is a 24-acre area perfect for people looking for an exciting and leisurely afternoon. It features several walking trails and various attractions.
These include the Capital City Amphitheatre, regularly used by regional and local acts, a playground with over 70 water jets, and a playscape with several smaller attractions.
Address: The Cascades Park is located at 1201 Myers Park Drive, Tallahassee, Florida, 32301, USA.
10. Lake Talquin State Forest
The Lake Talquin State Forest is a beautiful 17,491-acre area located near the city of Tallahassee.
This forest comprises ten tracts of land, most of which are along the Ochlockonee River.
It’s an excellent place for people looking for romantic activities outdoors. The Florida Forest Service has been managing this area since 1977.
Address: The Lake Talquin State Forest is located at Tallahassee, FL 32304, USA.
11. Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park
One of Florida’s most famous archaeological sites is the Lake Jackson Mounds State Park, located on the lake’s south shore.
It was the center of the Fort Walton culture, which thrived from around 1050 to 1500 AD.
This area features four earthwork mounds, several village residences, and a public plaza.
Address: The Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park located at 3600 Indian Mound Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303, USA.
12. Museum of Florida History
The Museum of Florida History is an innovative museum that aims to educate people about the state’s history.
It was established in 1977 and provided visitors with various educational programs.
The museum’s exhibits have been designed to give visitors a deeper understanding of Florida’s rich history.
Address: The Museum of Florida History is located at 500 S. Bronough Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399, USA.
13. SouthWood Golf Club
The Southwood Golf Club is excellent for people looking to enjoy a round of golf. Gene Bates and Fred Couples designed it.
The course is set in a beautiful area of pastureland. It features rolling hills and oak trees that are covered in Spanish moss.
Address: The SouthWood Golf Club is located at 3750 Grove Park Drive, Tallahassee, Florida, USA.
14. Knott House Museum
The George Proctor-designed museum known as the Knott House Museum was constructed in 1834 on East Park Avenue.
During the Civil War, it served as the Union’s temporary headquarters. In 1865, Abraham Lincoln read the Emancipation Proclamation on the front steps of the building.
Address: The Knott House Museum is located at 301 E Park Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32301, USA.
While in Florida, you may also want to check out Fun Things to Do in Gainesville and Things to Do in Leesburg.
15. Bradfordville Blues Club
The Bradfordville Blues Club is an excellent venue for local and national blues musicians to perform. It’s located on Moses Lane and features a one-room cinder block building.
The interior of this building features portraits of prominent musicians, and some can be found on the walls. This is the place to go if you’re looking for a romantic date night.
Address: The Bradfordville Blues Club is located at 7152 Moses Lane, Tallahassee, Florida, USA.
16. Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail
The Florida Historic Railroad State Trail is the state’s first rail-based trail.
It follows an abandoned railway that leads from the city of St. Marks to the coastal city of Tallahassee.
The trail is approximately 16 miles long. The railroad operated for over 20 years, the longest-running railroad in the state.
Address: The Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail is located at 3600 Indian Mounds Road, Tallahassee, Florida, USA.
17. St. Marks Lighthouse
The St. Marks Lighthouse is a beautiful St. Marks National Wildlife refuge structure. It’s regarded as one of the oldest lighthouses in Florida.
Unfortunately, the structure has been affected by natural disasters and construction wars. Visiting this place is one of the most fun things in Tallahassee, Florida.
Address: The St. Marks Lighthouse is located at St Marks, FL, USA.
18. Lake Ella and Fred Drake Park
Fred Drake Park and Lake Ella are free attractions near downtown Tallahassee. In the past, this area was used for cattle.
Today, it features a variety of facilities and activities. Some of these include a paved walking trails, picnic shelters, and fountains.
Address: The Lake Ella and Fred Drake Park is located at S Lake Ella Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32303, USA.
19. Goodwood Museum and Gardens
The magnificent plantation house, the Goodwood Museum & Gardens, is located on 16 acres of beautiful gardens and lawns.
It features a grand 1830s-style structure surrounded by old oaks and various other structures.
The house has a variety of art, furniture, and textiles. One of the best examples of antebellum architecture, the house was designed with various features.
Address: The Goodwood Museum and Gardens is located at 1600 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
20. Florida Historic Capitol Museum
The Florida Historic Capitol Museum is located on South Monroe Street. It features interactive exhibits, political artifacts, and photos.
It’s housed in the historic 1845 Historic Capital Building, which was extensively restored from 1978 to 1982.
When the new state capitol was built, the building was supposed to be destroyed, but the citizens of Florida saved it.
Address: The Florida Historic Capitol Museum is located at 400 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
21. Mission San Luis de Apalachee
Mission San Luis de Apalachee is located on West Tennessee Street, a Spanish Franciscan mission established in 1633.
Although the buildings were destroyed, several of them were reconstructed. Some of these include the church, fort, blockhouse, and convent.
Address: The Mission San Luis de Apalachee is located at 2100 West Tennessee Street, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
Cost of Visiting Tallahassee, FL
A week’s trip to Tallahassee usually costs around $887 for a single individual. This trip can cost approximately $1,844 a week for two people.
For a couple, a two-week trip to this area can also be had for approximately $3,487.
Best Time to Visit Tallassee, FL
The best time to visit the city of Tallahassee is anytime. Due to its location, it’s far away from the coast, and it doesn’t have the same spring break appeal as other areas in the Panhandle.