Make Tallahassee a must-see stop on your itinerary as you travel through the Sunshine State. This city is home to Florida A&M University, Florida State University, and Florida's legislature. If you want to learn more about the history of Florida, Tallahassee is a great place to visit. With its plantation homes, oak-shaded roads, and rolling hills, you can have a glimpse of Old Florida.
Since it is the home of the Florida legislature, you will want to check out the Capitol Building. Tallahassee has two buildings where politicians have gathered to make decisions for the state. If you need to find the Old Capitol Building, you cannot miss this massive structure in the center of Tallahassee's downtown district. It is a Greek revival building with candy-striped awnings and a copper dome. This structure was built in the heart of Tallahassee in 1845. While it was threatened with demolition in the late 1970s, the structure was restored in the 1980s and is currently open to the public. Today, visitors can see the restored Governor's Suite, House of Representatives, Senate, and Supreme Court rooms. The Florida Historic Capitol Museum is also located in the building and explores the colorful political history of the state.
The New Capitol Building is next to the old historic structure, completed in the late 1970s. Like the Old Capitol Building, this complex is home to the offices of the governor and Cabinet members of Florida's legislature. Visitors are welcome to explore the building after stopping at the Florida Welcome Center. You can take a group tour or walk around on a self-guided journey. Along with the Capitol Complex, a 10-block historic district preserves the old buildings. You can visit the historic inn, restaurants, and bars that add some character to this city.
Tallahassee is also home to the beautiful Lake Ella in Fred Drake Park. This park is an excellent place to get a change of pace from the busy city environment. The 12-acre park plays a vital role in the city, preventing potential flooding that could damage the area. Many residents love this park, and it is an iconic feature of Tallahassee. Fred Drake Park is ideal for a quiet picnic, quick jog, or peaceful respite.
Campgrounds Near Tallahassee, Florida
For those who want to stay slightly north of the city, consider booking a spot at Big Oak RV Park. This quiet campground is located near Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological Park. There are plenty of RV sites at Big Oak, with 143 full hookups starting at around $58 per night. Big Oak is an excellent place when you need a relaxing spot for your vacation. As the name suggests, the campground is surrounded by large oak trees, giving you plenty of shade during your stay. This campground is pet-friendly and has laundry facilities and Wi-Fi.
If you want something outside of Tallahassee, think about staying at Tallahassee RV Park. This is a smaller campground compared to others, offering only 20 sites. However, all the sites feature full hookups and allow back-in or pull-through access. Some of the amenities at this campground include clean showers, a hot tub, and a pool.
If you want a more resort-like experience, head to Wildwood Golf and RV Resort. This resort has 70 RV sites with full hookups starting at around $40 per day. You can enjoy plenty of amenities, such as a pool, hot tub, shower, Wi-Fi, and a golf course.
State Parks Near Tallahassee, Florida
Ochlockonee River State Park is hidden away in Florida's panhandle. This state park is a great place to kayak along the Ochlockonee River. You may also want to hike or bike on the multi-use trails that wind throughout the park. Ochlockonee River State Park is situated in a longleaf pine forest, and it is the ideal spot to take a break from your busy vacation. Ochlockonee River State Park offers plenty of opportunities to boat, birdwatch, or relax in this serene outdoor landscape.
The Torreya State Park is named after a rare species of Torreya trees that was discovered within the area in the 1800s. This state park is another exceptional multi-use area located in the Panhandle. If you want a challenge, make sure to explore the 16 miles of hiking trails. Along with that, birdwatching is another fantastic activity to enjoy. You can see over 100 species of birds in the park as they flutter throughout the lush landscape.
Seminole State Park is an excellent site to watch native animals in a natural setting. While in the park, you might see alligators, bald eagles, gopher tortoises, or ospreys. All these animals make their home in the longleaf pine forests. Along with wildlife viewing, you can water ski on the lake, swim just off the sandy beach, or hike on several miles of shaded trails. Seminole State Park is a perfect place to reconnect with Florida's spectacular natural environment.
National Sites Near Tallahassee, Florida
While not located in Florida, you may want to check out the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site in Georgia. At this location, you can see the humble beginnings of the former United States president in Plains, Georgia. Explore his former high school, family farm, and campaign headquarters. You can see how Jimmy Carter went from a humble peanut farmer to the top political leader in the United States.
Andersonville National Historic Site was once the prisoner camp of more than 32,000 Union soldiers. This historic spot is known for its notorious conditions that led to the death of 13,000 soldiers. Today, you can tour the remnants of the camp and learn about the harsh life of the prisoners. This national site is also home to a military cemetery where about 150 burials take place every year.
Lewis Adams and George W. Campbell founded Tuskegee Institute, later known as Tuskegee University. The first principal was Booker T. Washington, who secured the property for the university and recruited the best teachers to educate the students. George Washington Carver was one of the most famous teachers to work at the institute. This university was one of the first higher education institutions geared exclusively to Black students. When you visit the Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site, you can tour the original buildings to get a glimpse into American history. The Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site is located outside Tuskegee, Alabama, which is a half-hour drive from Auburn University.
National Forests Near Tallahassee, Florida
The Apalachicola National Forest is the largest U.S. National Forest in Florida, covering over 632,000 acres of land. This national forest is located in the Florida Panhandle, close to Tallahassee. There are many outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking, swimming, hunting, horseback riding, and off-road biking. The Apalachicola National Forest is divided into two wilderness areas: the Mud Swamp-New Forest Wilderness and Bradwell Bay Wilderness. These areas allow visitors to see the undisturbed longleaf pine forests found in this part of the state.
The Osceola National Forest is located in northeast Florida, and it was named after the Seminole warrior, Osceola. This forest encompasses over 200,000 acres of cypress-hardwood swamps and pine flatwoods. The park contains part of the Florida National Scenic Trail. Along with that hiking path, visitors can explore the other hiking trails in the national forest, including the Mount Currie Trail, Trampled Track Trail, and the Olustee Battlefield Trail. If you would rather explore by horseback, two trails wind past the scenic bay and open flatwood forests.
The smallest national forest in the country is the Tuskegee National Forest. While it may be tiny, there is plenty to see and do. You can horseback ride, camp, or mountain bike. One of the best ways to explore the 11,000 acres of land is by heading out on the Bartram National Recreation Trail. This park is also close to some of Alabama's top historical and cultural sites, giving you plenty of opportunities for an exciting day trip.
