Tallahassee reflects Southern-bred gentility in its antebellum homes, historical structures and canopied avenues stretching through the city. Home to Florida State University, Tallahassee has a youthful atmosphere in its lively pubs, coffee shops and eateries.

Things to do

Tallahassee locals set the tone for outdoor activities, inviting nature lovers to experience the natural landscapes at Edward Ball Wakulla Spring State Park, a wildlife sanctuary with nature trails and swampy waterways perfect for canoeing and kayaking. Rent a bike to explore Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park, which showcases ornamental gardens of gardenia, ginger and magnolia trees. Have a picnic near the reflecting pool and go birdwatching around the lake.

Museums in Tallahassee are far from stuffy, particularly with a giant ancient mastodon skeleton dominating the Museum of Florida History. Automobile aficionados will appreciate the vintage cars and roadsters at the Tallahassee Automobile and Collectibles Museum.

Dining in Tallahassee swings from upscale Southern fusion food to down-home country fare and Cajun crawdads. For a casual evening, slide into a booth at Kool Beanz Café and order mojo-spiced chicken with craft beer or regional wines. If you’re an adventurous eater, try the peanut butter and bacon-topped “Lip Smacker” burger at Wells Brothers Bar and Grill.

Glide through the past on one of Tallahassee’s roads lined with Spanish moss-draped oak trees framing antebellum plantation homes and old-fashioned country stores. Walk the line between past and present by visiting the two capitol buildings. The old capitol retains its original gas lamps and now houses a political-themed museum.

Getting around

Pick up a rental car at Tallahassee Regional Airport or use buses, ride-shares and taxis to get around. A free trolley services attractions in historic Tallahassee, running every 20 minutes along Adams Street.