Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Tallahassee, FL

The capital of the state of Florida, Tallahassee serves as an excellent destination for individuals seeking a diverse experience in one location. Renowned primarily for its stunning landscapes, Tallahassee offers a rich variety of flora and fauna within its numerous state parks, wildlife reserves, and animal sanctuaries. Many of these green areas also encompass historical structures, including missions, plantation homes, and vintage residences.

For those wishing to escape the Florida heat indoors, an impressive selection of museums awaits, providing insights into topics ranging from automobile history to the significance of natural science in this region of the United States. Concluding your day with a visit to a traditional Blues venue or exploring the fine dining and café culture will certainly reward you with ample options in this sunlit enclave of Florida.

Let us examine the top attractions in Tallahassee:

1. Florida Historic State Capitol Museum

For those with a keen interest in politics, a visit to the Florida Historic State Capitol Museum is essential while in town.

The museum is housed within the Historical Capitol Building, constructed in 1845, which has been meticulously restored concurrent with the construction of the new capitol.

Visitors can explore various rooms, including the Governor’s office, the House of Representatives, and the Supreme Court, alongside a plethora of antiques on display, comprising over 250 items such as vintage photographs and interactive exhibits that reveal the history of Tallahassee.

2. Mission San Luis de Apalachee

Established in 1633, Mission San Luis de Apalachee is a Spanish Franciscan mission situated in the historical Apalachee Province.

While all original structures from this settlement were destroyed long ago, you can still appreciate several thanks to a detailed and careful restoration effort.

This includes the fort, a church, a convent, a Spanish dwelling, a blockhouse, and several smaller residences.

Designated as a U.S. National Landmark, guests can tour the premises to gain insight into life in earlier times.

The buildings are also adorned with period artifacts, with some artifacts dating back 300 years.

3. Knott House Museum

The Knott House Museum, built in 1834, is notable for being the site where Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the Emancipation Proclamation.

Formerly owned by William and Luella Knott, the house was conferred to the Historic Tallahassee Preservation Board and opened as a museum in 1992. Today, guided tours led by knowledgeable docents are available, providing deeper insights into the house’s history and the surrounding area.

4. Lake Ella and Fred Drake Park

The picturesque Lake Ella encompasses an area of 12 acres within Fred Drake Park.

This location features fountains, shaded picnic spots, and walking trails that meander around the lake, allowing visitors to appreciate the beautiful scenery.

Activities such as walking, skating, or biking along the trail are encouraged, and wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy observing the numerous species that inhabit this area, including ducks, geese, and occasionally, turtles surfacing from the water.

5. Tallahassee Museum of History and Natural Science

The Tallahassee Museum of History and Natural Science is a science center emphasizing the environment, incorporating several historically significant buildings and a zoo.

The museum aims to educate visitors regarding the critical importance of natural history and environmental issues within the local context, showcasing a wide array of exhibits that accomplish this.

Among them is the Big Ben Farm, which transports visitors back to the 1800s, illustrating historical farming practices.

Guests can observe various animals, including deer, bears, and bobcats, along with endangered species like red wolves and Florida panthers within the zoo.

6. Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park

For those who appreciate botanical gardens, Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park is a must-visit, encompassing over 1,176 acres.

This locale is also recognized as a U.S. Historic District known as the Killearn Plantation Archaeological and Historic District.

Visitors will discover various historic structures here, with the park originally opening to the public in 1823.

The stunning array of flora, including azaleas and camellias, attracts many nature enthusiasts.

Additional varieties include Japanese maples and dogwoods, providing much-needed shade for afternoon strolls, and the Native Plant Arboretum.

Other activities available in the park consist of cycling, hiking, and fishing.

7. Tallahassee Automobile Museum

The Tallahassee Automobile Museum is dedicated to the presentation of exquisite vintage automobiles, making it an essential destination for automobile enthusiasts visiting the area.

Spanning over 100,000 square feet, the museum’s collection largely originates from donations.

The majority of items exhibited are American-made vehicles, reflecting the museum’s goal to honor and promote the history of the automobile industry in the United States.

There are more than 140 unique automobiles showcased, including historically significant pieces such as the original funeral hearse that transported Abraham Lincoln’s remains and three different versions of the Batmobile.

8. The Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park

Located along the southern shore of the notable Lake Jackson, the Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park is recognized for its substantial archaeological importance.

The mounds are believed to date between 1050 and 1500 AD, with two mounds accessible to the public, both listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

Alongside the mounds, the park offers walking trails that meander through the beautiful Floridian landscape.

9. Bradfordville Blues Club

If you are a Blues aficionado, the Bradfordville Blues Club is a venue that must not be overlooked, where you can experience performances from some of the finest Blues artists in Florida.

The establishment is situated among cornfields and oak trees, imparting a rustic Tallahassee atmosphere, with varied performances occurring weekly; it’s advisable to check local schedules for upcoming acts while visiting.

10. St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge

The St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1931, is among the oldest wildlife refuges in the United States.

Encompassing 68,000 acres, the refuge showcases the stunning biodiversity typical of the Gulf of Mexico, featuring marshlands, inlets, creeks, and estuaries.

Another prominent site within the refuge is the St. Marks Lighthouse, celebrated as the second oldest lighthouse in Florida.

Here, visitors can observe wildlife such as coyotes, bobcats, and black bears, with opportunities for fishing and boating also available.

A variety of hiking trails spread throughout the park cater to both hikers and cyclists.

11. Challenger Learning Center

The Challenger Learning Center is affiliated with Florida A&M University and spans 32,000 square feet dedicated to science-related activities.

The center emphasizes technology, engineering, and mathematics, featuring an IMAX theater showcasing 3D films. Additionally, there are exciting features such as a Space Mission Simulator and a dome theater and planetarium.

The hands-on exhibits and galleries facilitate enjoyable learning experiences for children about science.

12. Goodwood Museum and Gardens

The Goodwood Museum and Gardens showcases a plantation house constructed in the 1830s, preserved in its historical form amidst 16 acres of land.

The surrounding gardens feature rolling lawns and lush vegetation, with the house embodying the antebellum architectural style.

Visitors can appreciate original features such as glasswork, antique furnishings, period porcelain, textiles, and vintage artwork, including paintings and etchings.

Should you visit, be sure to look upwards, as the plantation house is renowned for its fresco ceilings, considered one of its hallmark traits.

13. St. Marks Lighthouse

St. Marks Lighthouse, situated within the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, dates back to 1831, making it the second oldest lighthouse in Florida.

The lighthouse features on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and is distinguished for having remained in its original location since 1842, enduring wars, erosion, and hurricanes.

Visitors now have the opportunity to tour the lighthouse and discover how this remarkable structure has safeguarded vessels in the area over the years.

14. Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail

The Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail holds the distinction of being the oldest trail in Florida, tracing the path of the former railway from Tallahassee to St. Marks.

This scenic trail extends for 16 miles and is suitable for walking, running, biking, or skating while enjoying the picturesque Floridian scenery.

Along the route, several charming stops are ideal for a break, such as the Felburn Foundation Boundless Playground, particularly appealing to younger visitors.

15. Lake Talquin State Forest

Spanning an impressive 17,000 acres, Lake Talquin State Forest is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The park offers a plethora of activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and biking, with opportunities for camping within the forest for those wishing to extend their visit.

Many people are drawn to the local wildlife, such as bobcats, deer, and wild turkeys, along with the beautiful maple and oak trees.