15 Best Things To Do In Tallahassee

Tallahassee, located in California, is recognized as one of the cities globally. Serves as the state capital. It holds the distinction of being both the county seat and the incorporated municipality in Leon County. In terms of population, Tallahassee ranks as the city in Florida, with an estimated 196,169 residents as of 2018. Notably, it boasts a vibrant student community of over 70,000 individuals, establishing itself as an environment for academic pursuits. Tallahassee has many institutions which provide great educational opportunities and learning opportunities for students.

Best things to do in Tallahassee

Tallahassee offers an array of experiences to suit interests. With its captivating history, heritage, exciting outdoor activities, and mouth-watering cuisine, this city has something for everyone. So no need to worry about what to do in your student accommodation in Tallahassee now let's dive into the 15 best things to do in Tallahassee.

1. Take a trip outdoors at Tom Brown Park

Location: 443-557 Easterwood Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32311.
Entry Fee: Free

Tom Brown Park covers an area of 255 acres on the side of Tallahassee, where you can find a wide array of activities to keep people engaged every day. Whether you're with your family or friends, visiting this park can easily be considered one of the best things to do in Tallahassee. There are many features provided by Town Brown Park, such as Tennis Courts, Pump Track by VeloSolutions, Baseball fields, Golf Courts, and some trails around nature for hiking or biking. You can find huge grounds which are perfect for social gatherings, hosting parties, weddings, or events. Suppose you're looking to experience fireworks and celebrations during occasions in Tallahassee. In that case, this is definitely a must-visit destination and is considered one of the best things to do in Tallahassee.

2. Explore Challenger Learning Center/ IMAX Theatre and Planetarium

Location: 200 S Duval St, Tallahassee, FL 32301
Entry Fee: $5.75-$12.00

You need to visit Challenger Learning Center/IMAX Theatre and Planetarium, which is considered to be one of the best things to do in Tallahassee. There are many things which can be carried in this center, such as space simulators, planetarium sessions, some hands-on activities or lab experiments and finally, an IMAX movie theater. In this center, you will surely find enough opportunities to learn new things and explore them through events, sessions and programs. You should definitely visit this center in Tallahassee during summer camps and enjoy all the best things to do in Tallahassee.

3. Embrace one of Florida’s Oldest Lighthouses

Location: Lighthouse Road in Crawfordville, Florida, 32327
Entry Fee: $5-$10

In the 1820s, St. Mark's Lighthouse had a significant impact on the importance of agricultural products in Tallahassee. One of the fun things to do in Tallahassee is to explore Florida's Oldest Lighthouse historic structure. When you are near this Lighthouse, you can book a tour to discover the oldest Lighthouse with its rich history about its establishment. Similar to other historic places, many things like smoking, food and beverages are prohibited here.

4. Check out the oldest surviving bank at the Union Bank Of Florida Museum

Location: 219 Apalachee Pkwy, Tallahassee, FL 32301
Entry Fee: Free

This Tallahassee attraction is another one of the most important parts of Florida’s history. Established in the year 1830, this bank is Florida’s oldest surviving bank. The building in which Union Bank of Florida was once a church, a shoe factory and a beauty shop in the past. Visiting the oldest surviving bank is one of the best things to do in Tallahassee. In recent times, this bank has served as a museum and research center for the Florida A&M University Black Archives.

5. Have a cute picnic at Lichgate on High Road

Location: 1401 High Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32304
Entry Fee: Free

Lichgate on High Road is like a backdrop for a fairytale movie set in a forest, perfect for taking a snap or an Instagram-worthy picture. During the period of the 1900s, the English-Tudor-style Lichgate cottage was built by Laura Jepsen, an English professor from Florida State University, who is also remembered as one of the first known preservationists. It was added to the US National Register of Historic Places on 31st March 2006. These grounds have some of the most beautiful and amazing flora and fauna that you can find near student accommodation in Florida. These grounds have butterflies, perennial and daffodil gardens, a Live Oak Tree and a labyrinth. Hosting a picnic here is one of the best things to do in Tallahassee.

6. Take a stroll around the fountains at Cascade Park

Location: 1001 S Gadsden St, Tallahassee, FL 32301
Entry Fee: Free

This is the perfect example of a neo-classic park where history meets the future. It is a centrally located park that pays homage to its roots but has all the modern amenities and events that you can think of! The Cascade Park is located about a quarter mile from the current Capitol Building and is one of the most popular Tallahassee attractions. The park’s history goes back to the time when two Florida representatives deemed Tallahassee as the middle ground between St. Augustine and Pensacola for official meetings. Many historians also suggest that the representatives chose this location because of its beautiful waterfall, which is one of the best things to do in Tallahassee.

7. Dine out at the locally-owned Italian restaurant

Location: 123 E 5th Ave, Tallahassee, Florida 32303
Entry Fee: Free (You only have to pay for your meal)

Known for its cosy and funky atmosphere, at the end of the day, this locally-owned Italian restaurant will make your day with lip-smacking food and unmatched hospitality. Dishes like Spinach and Roasted Garlic Ravioli, Chicken Parmesan, and Sicilian Lasagna will surely make you hungry and leave you wanting for more. If you’re here, make sure to try out the in-house red or white sangria if you’re in the mood to have a drink. You can come here alone, with a bunch of people or with someone special. This place will surely leave a lasting impression on everyone making it one of the top things to do in Tallahassee.

8. Head over to Yianni’s for an ultimate banger of a party

Location: 646 W Tennessee Street, Tallahassee, FL 32304
Entry Fee: Free (You only have to pay for your meal)

Yianni’s Tallahassee is a classic nightclub located on the Tally Strip. It is open to anyone 18+ (although you must be 21+ to purchase alcohol). Dance and hip-hop music are played all night long to keep you on your feet, making it one of the most popular hip-hop clubs in Tallahassee. It is also possible to rent a VIP booth to give you a place to chill between your favourite songs – or as a location to polish off one of their fish bowls before returning to the dancefloor! The nightlife in Tallahassee is amazing and worth every penny. The drinks are great, and so are the people and atmosphere. You can definitely consider Yianni’s Party as one of the best things to do in Tallahassee.

9. Mountain biking on Multiple Trails

Location: Various Locations
Entry Fee: Free

Tallahassee boasts a vibrant and thriving mountain biking community thanks to its extensive network of trails stretching across hundreds of miles. Maintained through a fruitful collaboration between the City of Tallahassee and The Tallahassee Mountain Bike Association (TMBA), these trails form the beating heart of the local biking scene. Whether you're a seasoned pro seeking a thrilling challenge or simply an enthusiast looking to soak in the breathtaking scenery, there's a perfect trail awaiting your wheels in Tallahassee, making it one of the best things to do in Tallahassee.

10. Visit the Goodwood Museum and Gardens

Location: 646 W Tennessee Street, Tallahassee, FL 32304
Entry Fee: $12 approximately

Unveiling Florida's storied past, Goodwood Museum and Gardens stands tall as a custodian of history. Once a sprawling cotton plantation spanning 1,600 acres, this revered estate has transformed into a cherished museum nestled within 20 acres of captivating land. Traverse the verdant gardens without cost or embark on an enthralling journey through time within the home. Prepare to be enthralled by the main house, greenhouse, aviary, and reflecting pool, each a testament to the splendor of a bygone era. 

At Goodwood Museum and Gardens, immerse yourself in a tapestry of Florida's heritage. In this place, preservation, education, and reverence intertwine to ensure the echoes of the past resonate with future generations. This makes Goodwood Museum and Gardens one of the best things to do in Tallahassee.

11. Be in nature’s beauty at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge

Location: Wakulla County, Florida 32355
Entry Fee: Annual pass at $25

It is located on the Gulf Coast of Florida and is an ideal destination for all nature enthusiasts who want to blend in a unique mix of different ecosystems. The Refuge is primarily known for its different wildlife ecosystems, which you will not find anywhere in the United States. Diving back into the history of this Refuge, it was established at the time when St. Marks Lighthouse was in early May 1828. 

You can easily find wetlands, marshes, and coastal areas in this refuge ecosystem. There are bird species that gather in this Refuge, which makes it an excellent spot for capturing wildlife photographs. Some notable birds include bald eagles, gentle manatees, and 300 counts of different bird species and other wildlife. This Refuge is a great treat for nature enthusiasts and one of the best things to do in Tallahassee.

12. See the oasis at Lake Ella & Fred Drake Park

Location: Tallahassee, Florida 32303
Entry Fee: Free

Here is another sanctuary situated in Tallahassee, Florida, Lake Ella and Fred Drake Park, which provides a visual treat for all the nature enthusiasts and families who want to experience something great. Lake Ella is a beautiful lake that is surrounded by tall trees that wrap around the trajectory of flowing waters.

It's the place to take a walk, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the peacefulness of nature right in the heart of the city. Despite being located in the city, it is home to a range of wildlife, animals, and birds. People who visit can have the pleasure of observing and interacting with ducks, turtles, and various types of birds. Lake Ella & Fred Drake Park is one of the best things to do in Tallahassee.

13. Explore the wonderland at Apalachicola National Forest

Location: Florida Panhandle, US
Entry fee: No entrance fee

One thing to notice about Florida is that it is completely occupied with spots for all types of nature enthusiasts. Apalachicola National Forest, situated in the Florida Panhandle, covers over half a million acres of wilderness. In Apalachicola National Forest, you will find longleaf pine trees and meandering rivers on a flat terrain. The forest’s rich biodiversity has a wide range of flora and fauna, which specifically includes endangered species of red-cockaded woodpeckers, black bears, and different plant species. 

There are many water activities in the forest, such as fishing, kayaking, and enjoying on the riverside. If you are considering visiting this wonderland, then do experience camping at Apalachicola National Forest in Tallahassee, as it is one of the best things to do in Tallahassee.

14. Get a glimpse of history at Mission San Luis de Apalachee

Location: Museum in Tallahassee, Florida
Entry Fee: For children, it is $2, for seniors, it is $3 and for adults it is $5

San Luis de Apalachee, also known as Mission San Luis, is a historically significant site located in Tallahassee, Florida. This mission was established in the 17th century and played an important role in colonizing Florida and increasing interaction between the Spanish people and the Apalachee tribe. People who visit can wander through the structures, participate in reenactments, and observe exhibits that offer glimpses into the everyday routines of both the Spanish settlers and the Apalachee people. It is one of the best things to do in Tallahassee.

15. For automotive enthusiasts, visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum

Location: Leon County, Florida
Entry Fee: General admission is $20, for seniors/veterans it is $17.5 and for students, it is $11.75

The Tallahassee Automobile Museum is well known for its assortment of cars. It proudly displays more than 160 vintage vehicles, including classic cars, muscle cars, and even vehicles once owned by celebrities. The museum presents the development of the car industry, taking you on a journey through time from horse-drawn carriages to vehicles. You can explore the history and technological progress in the world of automobiles. 

We really hope you enjoyed reading this blog about the fifteen activities to do in Tallahassee as much as we did while putting it together. If you're interested in discovering things to do in cities, feel free to explore our other blog posts! If you happen to be searching for student accommodation in Tallahassee, don't forget to check out our accommodations specifically designed for students.