Things to do in Tallahassee, Florida

Are you looking for things to do in Tallahassee, Florida? Most people think of Florida and picture sandy beaches, but Tallahassee offers so much more! There are many things to do in Tallahassee.

First, to understand what fun awaits in Tallahassee, it's important that you understand the history of the city. Tallahassee is not only the county seat of Leon County, but it is also the capital of the entire state of Florida.

Tallahassee is home to nearly 200,000 Floridians, making it not only the seventh-largest city in the Sunshine State, but one of the largest in the United States at 126. It is located in the Panhandle of Florida, which makes it a popular tourist site as it is close to both the beach and the Gulf of Mexico but also the best of South Georgia as well.

Read more about Florida

• Best things to do in Bradenton Florida
• Things to do in St. Petersburg, Florida
• Review of Sirata Beach Resort in St. Petersburg
• Orlando Is More Than Just Theme Parks

Where to stay in Tallahassee?

• Booking.com has been my go-to choice for the best prices on places to stay in Tallahassee, with the most choices. Especially once you reach Genius tier and you can find an additional 10-15% off places to stay.

What to Know About Tallahassee

Tallahassee is home to the Sunshine State capital, but it is also home to multiple colleges and universities, including Florida State University. Tallahassee Community College and Florida A & M University also call Tallahassee home. Tallahassee has also been recognized as an All-American City Award winner by the National Civic League two times in the last decade. A Tallahassee map would show the bulk of government buildings in addition to the vintage architecture that the state is attempting to salvage and, in some cases, renovate.

Tallahassee as a territory has a rich history from the remnants of the earthen mounds of early natives to the Spanish ruins that have been preserved by the state of Florida. The Mission San Luis de Apalachee has been partially restored by the Florida government and is a beautiful tourist attraction.

Top activities in Tallahassee

Love History? Tallahassee has a Rich Historical Background!

Tallahassee has another claim to fame that no other site on the continent of North America can make – historians believe that the very first Christmas was held near modern-day Tallahassee by Hernando de Soto and his fellow explorers. (It should be noted that this is a claim that no one can completely prove or disprove.)

Although Tallahassee was a Spanish territory for many years, eventually, the land we now know as Florida became an American territory. When delegates from West Florida and East Florida met to set up the Florida Legislative Council, they determined that they should meet in a more centralized location – this was Tallahassee, and this is how and why the location was chosen as the state capital.

Love Football? Love Tailgating? Look No Further!

When looking for things to do in Tallahassee, you won't be surprised to find that many visitors flock to the city for college football game days. Again, both Florida State University and Florida A & M are located in Tallahassee, and many football fans come to the city to tailgate and enjoy the game. However, this is just one of the many Tallahassee events in which you can immerse yourself in Florida culture and have fun.

Music and More Fun

The Sundown Concert Series is a month-long event located at the Capital City Amphitheater, and concertgoers can be sure to enjoy great live music and other entertainment. Much of the music is brought by local artists, and the background of the great outdoors just adds to the atmosphere of the event. This is a great event that has something for everyone.

Food Festivals and More!

Each year, the city hosts the Tallahassee Greek Food Festival, which is a tribute to the Greek community in the city. During the third weekend in October, the Tallahassee Greek Food Festival draws in those who grew up with Mediterranean origins and those who simply enjoy good food. Most of those who put on the event are members of the Holy Mother of God Greek Orthodox Church, and the food on display is often homemade by the same individuals. In addition, those in attendance will enjoy traditional Greek music as well as find opportunities to donate to those in need. (Event-goers are asked to bring food donations in order to distribute to the hungry.)

Black Heritage in Tallahassee

You can also visit Tallahassee and take in the rich heritage and culture of the capital city. Previously, I mentioned the centuries-long history of the city, but there are tributes to particular communities in Tallahassee. The Meek-Eaton Southeastern Regional Black Archives and Research Center is open to the public, providing a great history lesson for visitors. Here, there are monuments, historic buildings, and a multitude of artifacts that prove the impact of the African American community. After leaving the Archives, you should visit the Restored Smokey Hollow Barbershop, which further shows the importance of African American history in Tallahassee. Take a walking tour of downtown Tallahassee for an illuminating experience highlighting Black Heritage history.

Fun-filled Kids Activities in Tallahassee

Got kids along for the trip? There are many fun things to do in Tallahassee, especially with the kids in tow! Lofty Pursuits is a child's dream, complete with a candy shop, ice cream parlor, and a toy store. In fact, you might enjoy watching the candy being made before you take a bite. The Tree-to-Tree Adventure lets visitors zipline while they are enjoying the Tallahassee Museum. Are your kids not old enough to zipline? There's a playground for them to enjoy instead. These are just a few places that you can take the kids while visiting this sunny destination!

What's to Eat in Tallahassee?

We'd be remiss if we didn't mention places to eat in Tallahassee! Besides the Greek Food Festival, there are restaurants that feature most any food you'd like to try! The Canopy Road Cafe offers pancakes with a creative twist in a traditional diner atmosphere. The Shell Oyster Bar is a family-owned business that routinely feeds a large crowd every night. The Edison is named such because it is housed in a former power plant, and it is a favorite among all ages of visitors and college students.

Tallahassee is a great place to visit, and there are many activities for the individual, the couple, and the family alike!

Where to stay in Tallahassee