The Capital City’s Must-See Museums and Gardens

Tallahassee, with its rolling hills and canopy roads, stands apart from Florida’s beachfront cities, offering visitors a glimpse into the state’s rich political heritage, educational prominence, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or culture enthusiast, Tallahassee has something special for you. Let’s explore the tourist attractions that make the Capital City a captivating destination.

Florida State Capitol

A visit to Tallahassee wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Florida State Capitol. The complex includes the historic Old Capitol, with its distinctive red and white awning, and the modern New Capitol building, offering panoramic views of the city from its 22nd-floor observatory. Dive into Florida’s political history and governance with guided tours that illuminate the state’s legislative process.

Location: Downtown Tallahassee at the intersection of Apalachee Parkway and Monroe Street.

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed on weekends and holidays.

Admission: Free

Additional Information: Self-guided tour information and pamphlets are available from the Florida Welcome Center.

Museum of Florida History

The Museum of Florida History delves into the rich tapestry of the state’s past, from prehistoric times to the present day. With engaging exhibits on Florida’s indigenous peoples, Spanish explorers, and the Civil War, among others, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of the events and individuals that have shaped Florida. Don’t miss the impressive mastodon skeleton, a highlight of the museum’s collection.

Note: The Museum of Florida History is temporarily closed due to maintenance.

Tallahassee Museum

Set on 52 acres of natural beauty, the Tallahassee Museum is part outdoor nature center, part history museum, and part zoo. It offers an immersive experience into North Florida’s flora and fauna, historical buildings, and live native wildlife exhibits, including Florida panthers and red wolves. The museum’s Tree To Tree Adventures, an aerial adventure course, adds an element of thrill for the adventurous visitor.

Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 am – 5 pm; Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

New Exhibit: Check out their new alligator exhibit!

Tallahassee Automobile Museum

For car enthusiasts and history buffs alike, the Tallahassee Automobile Museum offers an impressive collection of over 160 vehicles ranging from antique cars to muscle cars, and even a Batmobile replica. Beyond automobiles, the museum houses a diverse collection of memorabilia including pianos, boats, and sports artifacts, making it more than just a car museum. The meticulously curated exhibits provide a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of automotive design and technology, while also exploring the broader cultural impact of these iconic machines.

Hours: Open daily. Monday to Friday, 8 am – 5 pm; Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm; Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm. Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Admission:

• General Admission: $20.00 per person
• Seniors, Veterans, Active Military: $17.50 per person
• Two or more guests (paying together): $17.50 per person
• Students (ages 10-18): $11.75 per person
• Children (ages 5-9): $8.00 per person
• Children (4 & under): Free

• Seniors, Veterans, Active Military: $17.50 per person
• Two or more guests (paying together): $17.50 per person
• Students (ages 10-18): $11.75 per person
• Children (ages 5-9): $8.00 per person
• Children (4 & under): Free

Additional Information: Plenty of parking available for tour buses, motor-homes, and travel trailers.

Goodwood Museum and Gardens

Once a sprawling antebellum plantation, the Goodwood Museum and Gardens has been beautifully preserved to showcase the rich history and serene landscapes of early 20th-century Florida. The main house, surrounded by centuries-old oaks, features original furnishings and artifacts that tell the story of its past residents. The gardens, with a variety of native and exotic plants, provide a year-round display of color and fragrance, and are a highlight for visitors.

Grounds and Gardens Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am – 5 pm; Saturday, 10 am – 2 pm; closed on Sunday. Grounds are free and open to the public during museum hours of operation.

House Tour Times: Tuesday to Friday at 10 am, 11:30 am, 1 pm, and 2:30 pm; Saturday at 10 am, 11:30 am, and 1 pm.

Admission:

• General Admission: $12
• Veterans, Seniors & Students (with ID): $10
• Children (ages 6-12): $6
• Groups of 10 or more: $8 per person
• Goodwood Members: Free

Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park

Renowned for its stunning ornamental gardens, Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and photographers alike. First planted in 1923, the park showcases an enchanting array of azaleas and camellias that come alive with vibrant colors from January through April. The gardens are thoughtfully designed with a picturesque brick walkway, a secret garden, a reflection pool, and a walled garden, creating a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls or professional photography.

In addition to the floral spectacle, the park features Lake Hall for fishing and kayaking, along with miles of scenic trails for hiking, horseback riding, and biking. The visitor center provides educational videos about the Maclay family and the park’s history. For those needing assistance, manual wheelchairs and motorized scooters are available upon request at the ranger station, and golf cart tours can be arranged with advance notice. The historic 1909 Maclay House, furnished to appear as it did during the residency of the Maclays, offers a glimpse into the past during the high blooming season.

Hours:

Park and historic gardens open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset.

The Maclay House museum is open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. during January through April.

Fees:

Mission San Luis

Experience the rich cultural heritage of the Apalachee and Spanish residents who lived in this thriving community in the 17th century at Mission San Luis. This living history museum includes a reconstructed Franciscan Church, Spanish fort, and Apalachee council house. Interactive exhibits and living history demonstrations bring the mission’s history to life, making it an educational and engaging experience for all ages.

Historic Site, Gallery, and Gift Shop Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Closed on Mondays, New Year’s Day, Easter, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, December 24, and Christmas Day.

Admission: Adults $5, Seniors (65 and over) $3, Children (6-17) $2, Children under 6 free, Active Duty Military free with ID, Friends Members free.

Tallahassee’s tourist attractions offer a fun blend of historical landmarks, educational institutions, natural beauty, and cultural experiences makes it a unique destination within Florida. From the halls of the State Capitol to the tranquil beauty of Maclay Gardens and the historical insights of Mission San Luis, the city invites visitors to explore its many layers. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer exploration, Tallahassee offers a memorable journey into the heart of Florida.