Things To Do
in Tallahassee
Tallahassee is Florida's capital city, perched in the northwestern part of the state with a rich blend of government, university life, and southern hospitality. The city is lined with oak canopies, rivers, and green spaces that invite outdoor exploration. It blends historic architecture with a vibrant college-town energy and a growing, diverse food scene.
Visitors will find parks, museums, and nearby wildlife refuges within easy reach, making it a dynamic gateway to north Florida.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café in the historic district, where you can savor homemade biscuits and Southern-style grits. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully preserved streets, admiring the architecture of the old buildings and the vibrant murals. Don't forget to stop by the Florida Historic Capitol Museum to learn about the state's political history.
Post-lunch, visit the Museum of Florida History, where you can delve deeper into the rich cultural heritage of the state. The afternoon can be spent wandering through the nearby Cascades Park, where you can enjoy the scenic views and relaxing ambiance. Take a moment to explore the park’s various trails and perhaps catch a glimpse of local wildlife.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant known for its farm-to-table dining experience. Enjoy a delicious meal featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients while soaking in the warm atmosphere. After dinner, consider catching a live performance or music event at one of Tallahassee's many venues.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a quaint diner before setting off to the Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park for a morning of exploration. Walk along the beautiful nature trails surrounded by stunning flora and fauna, and don’t miss the chance to see the blooming azaleas if you’re visiting in spring. Grab your camera to capture the picturesque landscapes and serene lake views.
After enjoying a packed lunch in the park, venture to the nearby Tallahassee Museum, where you can discover more about local wildlife and history. Spend the afternoon exploring the museum's interactive exhibits and walking the nature trails that wind through the park, where you might see deer, otters, and various bird species. The museum also features a historic village that showcases early Florida life.
As evening approaches, return to the city and unwind at a local brewery that offers a variety of craft beers. Pair your drinks with some delicious appetizers while mingling with locals and enjoying the laid-back vibe. For a relaxing conclusion to the day, consider a stroll through the park or along the waterfront.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $2-5 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,400-1,800 / month |
| 💡Utilities (monthly) | $150-200 |
| 🚎Public transit pass | $60-75 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant university-town energy and government institutions
- Rich parks, nature, and easy access to wildlife areas
- Hot summers and humidity
- Car dependence outside downtown core
Places to Visit in Tallahassee
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic white-domed capitol building with reflective pools and formal grounds.
Colorful ornamental gardens and lake views ideal for scenic portraits.
City park with skyline views, fountains, and seasonal light displays.
Quaint lakefront with colorful houses, boats, and sunset reflections.
Vibrant street art, murals, and moody night photography in a creative district.
Food in Tallahassee
Tallahassee Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A gulf-coast staple featuring local grouper, citrus mayo, and fresh toppings, best at seafood spots near the Capitol area.
Must-Try!
Creamy grits topped with plump shrimp and smoky sauce—a regional favorite.
Classic pressed sandwich with roast pork, ham, pickles and mustard.
Crispy catfish served with sides like coleslaw and hush puppies.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal farmers market at Cascades Park with local produce, baked goods.
Weekly market with local vendors, street food, and arts.
Traditional market with fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, and crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments and events; polite greetings are common; tipping is customary; casual dress is fine in many places, but dressier options exist for nicer venues.
Safety
Tipping in Tallahassee
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, 15-20% at restaurants; tip bartenders; tip housekeeping at hotels; tips for ride-share drivers.
Most places accept cash, credit, and debit cards; mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with sudden afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated and seek shade.
Cooling temperatures and pleasant humidity; ideal for outdoor exploration and campus events.
Mild to cool days with cool nights; light layers needed, rare frost.
Blooming landscapes, longer days, and frequent showers; great for garden photography.
Tallahassee at Night
Hiking in Tallahassee
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trails with wildlife viewing and marshland scenery.
Paved trail offering scenic forest and river views.
Garden trails and lake paths near the park.
Airports
How to reach Tallahassee by plane.
Regional airport with domestic flights and connections to major hubs; rental cars available.
Neat alternative 1-2 hour drive away offering flights to several destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large student population from Florida State University and Florida A&M University.
State capital presence brings a stable workforce.
Residential neighborhoods and community amenities support families and retirees.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Florida State Seminoles football is a major draw with campus-wide fan support.
FSU and local leagues offer college and amateur basketball.
Seasonal college baseball games and local leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tallahassee.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
How to navigate as a vegetarian in Tallahassee - look for veggie plates, Mediterranean options, and markets with fresh produce; many menus label vegetarian options.