Tallahassee, the state capital of Florida, is known for its rolling red hills and canopied roads, a commitment to the arts, and as home to two universities: Florida State and Florida A&M. Just 20 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, Tallahassee is the largest city in the “Panhandle” part of the state. There is so much to do and see – here are a few of our favorite spots:
St. Marks Lighthouse
This historic landmark was originally built in 1831 and is the second oldest lighthouse in the state. It has survived several wars, as well as numerous storms and hurricanes, standing tall as one of the most photographed locations on the Gulf Coast. Spend time at the nearby beach, ride along the bike trails or explore the wildlife refuge.
Kool Beanz Cafe
If you’re looking for a unique local dining experience, check out Kool Beanz Cafe, where their slogan is “Eat, Drink & Talk Loud – You’re Among Friends!” It’s an eclectic restaurant serving up everything from fresh seafood to pasta, fried green tomatoes to fried chicken, and more.
Tallahassee Automobile Museum
For those who get revved up by car culture, the Tallahassee automobile museum is a must-visit. With over 100,000 square feet of showroom space, it houses a collection of over 160 classic cars. Among the vintage rides are the Batmobile, classic Camaros, a 1900 Snell — one of the oldest gas-combustion cars ever made, and the horse-drawn funeral hearse that carried President Abraham Lincoln!
Wakulla Springs State Park
Wakulla Springs State Park is home to the deepest and largest freshwater spring on the entire planet. If you visit in the fall and winter months, you’ll be sure to see plenty of manatees from the riverboat cruise. Below the surface, there are underwater caves ready to be explored by scuba divers and snorkelers.
Cascades Park
Venture to the center of downtown Tallahassee to explore Cascades Park. This scenic landscape boasts an interactive fountain for children, miles of trails for walking and jogging, open space for picnics, and the Capital City Amphitheater, which is typically active with movies, plays, and musical performances.
Stroll Through FSU
No visit to Tallahassee is complete without an outdoor walk through the campus of Florida State University. Admire the beautiful brick architecture, its tree-covered pathways, the stained-glass windows of Dodd Hall, and the “Doak,” Doak Campbell Stadium, home to the Seminoles football team since 1950.
