What to do in Tallahassee
Our destination sponsors of TakeOff North America 2025 have curated a list of attractions for you to visit during your time in Tallahassee.
Tallahassee Museum & Tree-To-Tree Adventures
The Tallahassee Museum! Set amidst 52 acres of breathtaking Florida flora and fauna, the Museum’s living exhibits of native wildlife, nature trails, historic exhibits and zip line and aerial adventure courses are enjoyed by visitors of all ages.
Mission San Luis
Welcome to Tallahassee's only National Historic Landmark! Mission San Luis served as the seat of power for the Apalachee people and the western capital of Spanish Florida from 1656 - 1704. This 64-acre active archaeological and historic site tells the story of the intersection of these two cultures through reconstructed buildings, interpreters in period dress, and on-site demonstrations. We are pet and picnic friendly.
John G. Riley House Museum
The John Gilmore Riley Center & Museum for African American History & Culture, Inc. is a historical and cultural gem that sits at the bottom of a hill in downtown Tallahassee, at the corner of Meridian and Jefferson Streets.
Railroad Square
Historic warehouse district now home to more than 50 artist studios, galleries, and small shops. Railroad Square Art Park serves as Tallahassee's "Art District," the creative haven for many Tallahassee artists and other creative, small businesses.
Midtown
Located in the heart of Florida’s capital city, the Midtown Tallahassee district is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, with its mix of historic charm, walkability, and plenty of unique shopping and dining experiences.
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
The beautiful ornamental gardens were first planted in 1923 by Alfred B. and Louise Maclay after they purchased the property for their winter home.
Goodwoods Museum & Gardens
Originally a 1,600-acre cotton plantation, the home is now on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as museum situated on 20-acres of land with centuries old live oaks and gardens. In addition to the main house, there are 20 structures dating from 1835 to 1925. The main house features original family furnishings, porcelain, textiles, glassware and art.
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
The invigorating 70 degree waters are sure to refresh you on even the hottest summer days. The historic lodge is an elegant remnant of old Florida, and the ancient cypress swamps made the perfect backdrop for old Hollywood movies.
The Lodge at Wakulla Springs
Surrounded by 6,000 acres of pristine forest, The Lodge at Wakulla Springs is North Florida’s castle. Built in 1937 by industrialist Edward Ball, the Lodge is not only one of the most beautiful buildings of its period, but also one of the few where you can stay overnight. Located in the middle of Wakulla Springs State Park, the Lodge’s 27 rooms overlook one of the country’s largest springs. Whether you enjoy fine dining in the Edward Ball Dining Room or want to cool off with an ice cream at the world’s longest marble soda fountain, the Lodge’s timeless beauty surrounds you. Nature, luxury, history, and comfort—all can be found at the Lodge at Wakulla Springs.
Boat Tours at the Lodge
Leaving just yards from the Lodge about every hour, the Jungle Cruise Boat Tour takes you on a nature tour from the Springs up the river. Experienced guides tell you about the environment, wildlife, and history of the springs. Currently, reservations are required. Boat tours run every day of the year unless severe weather occurs.
Thomasville, Georgia
Set apart from many destinations because of its award-winning downtown and preserved historical fabric, Thomasville, Georgia, is truly worth the trip. Stroll brick-paved streets as you explore more than 100 specialty shops, boutiques and restaurants. Proximity to farmland ensures restaurant menus are packed with fresh produce as well as options around wild game and quail, which are regional specialties.
St Marks Lighthouse
A National Historic Landmark The St. Marks Lighthouse has been a navigational beacon for over a century and a half, guiding recreational, military, and merchant vessels from around the world to the mouth of the St. Marks River.
FSU Marine Lab
Florida State University established its first marine laboratory, the Oceanographic Institute, in 1949 on 25 acres on the harbor side of the peninsula that forms Alligator Harbor, about 45 miles south of Tallahassee.
Smokey Hollow Commemoration
Tallahassee’s Cascades Park celebrates the legacy of the Smokey Hollow community. For over 60 years, Smokey Hollow was a thriving black community and home to churches, restaurants, stores, and hundreds of residents. Urban renewal eliminated the neighborhood in the 1960’s, but the stories and history of the area lives on.
First Florida Capitol
In honor of the city of Tallahassee's bicentennial in 2024, the community united to build a replica of Florida’s first capitol—a log cabin that served as Florida's first legislative home.
Historic Capitol Museum
Since 1845, the Historic Capitol has symbolized Florida state government. Restored to its 1902 appearance, the Historic Capitol stands as an icon at the center of Florida’s Capitol complex; the modern-day nerve center of Sunshine State government. Under the stained-glass dome, political history and tradition come alive in the exhibits.
City of Tallahassee Award Winning Park System
Tallahassee’s large and diverse system of parks, green space and trails makes the city a fantastic place to live, work and play! We offer over 100 parks totaling nearly 4,000 acres, along with over 70 miles of trails. The variety of recreational opportunities offered in our parks truly results in something for everyone!
Myers Park
Park is located in the downtown area, amenities include picnic shelters, large pavilion, open field, playground and nature and hiking trails, tennis courts and Wade Wehunt Pool. Courts available for open play daily sunrise to 10 p.m
Lafayette Heritage Trail Park
Great Florida Birding & Wildlife Trail designation, this park offers a quick escape to an oasis of woods, water, and wildlife in the Southeast part of the city. It offers outstanding views of Lake Piney Z and access to seven “fishing fingers” (earthen walkways that extend out into the lake).
Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park
More than eight centuries ago, Native Americans inhabited the area around Lake Jackson, just north of Tallahassee. The park site was part of what is now known as the Southeastern Ceremonial Complex. Today the park preserves the remains of six of the seven known earthen temple mounds. The largest mound is 278 feet by 312 feet at the base and approximately 36 feet in height.
Hilaman & Jake Gaither Golf Courses
- 9 Minute Drive from Conference Hotel to Hilaman Golf Course.
- 10 Minute Drive from Conference Hotel to Jake Gaither Golf Course.
National High Magnetic Field Laboratory
Tallahassee is the magnetic capital of the world, home to the largest and highest-powered magnet lab. With public tours available.
A Walking Foodie Tour Tally
Discover the vibrant culinary scene of Midtown Tallahassee with our immersive food tour. Explore local eateries, savor authentic flavors, and uncover the rich history that makes this neighborhood a true FOODIE destination.
Ghosts and Grim Tales
Come learn about Tallahassee history through the spooky stories of our resident ghosts. You’ll discover which Tallahassee buildings are haunted, hear the tales of several Tallahassee tragedies, and visit the grave of the Tallahassee witch.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Lewis Spring House
Built in 1954 for the Lewis family, this is the only Frank Lloyd Wright-designed private residence in Florida. It has a unique “hemicircle” design of concentric and intersecting circles that resemble a boat.
Beaches Near Tallahassee
- Cape San Blas (98 miles)
- Carrabelle Beach (55 miles)
- Dog Island (accessible by plane or boat)
- Hagen’s Cove (85 miles)
- Keaton Beach (79 miles)
- Mashes Sands (35 miles)
- Mexico Beach (103 miles)
- St. George Island (78 miles)
- St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge (19 miles)