With its rolling hills, oak-canopied lanes, and magnificent mansions, Tallahassee defies popular perceptions of Florida by being less South Beach and more Southern charm:
The capital city combines cosmopolitan flair, young ambiance, and down-home friendliness, as it is home to two world-class institutions and, of course, the Florida Legislature.
To help you plan your trip to Tallahassee, we’ve compiled a list of 16 Things to Do in Tallahassee with Kids In 2022.
Tallahassee Museum of History and Natural Science
A natural habitat zoo, historic buildings, and an environmental science center make up the Tallahassee Museum of History and Natural Science, which can be found on Museum Drive.
The museum’s main purpose is to educate people about the cultural and environmental history of the Big Bend region, which includes Tallahassee.
Aside from seeing the museum’s permanent treasures, make time to visit the Butterfly Rainforest and the Survival of the Slowest with your kids.
Lofty Pursuits
Milkshakes and breakfast are available at this charming old-fashioned soda fountain. When you visit Lofty Pursuits, you’ll get a blast from the past. There are several ice cream choices to pick from, as well as mouthwatering breakfast buffets.
Having a meal at Lofty Pursuits is one of the best things to do with kids in Tallahassee. As far as kids are concerned, ice cream is always a good idea.
Related: Traveling Abroad? Helpful Tips and To-Do’s Before Your Departure
National Wildlife Refuge at St. Marks
It was established in 1931 and is one of the oldest wildlife refuges in the country and one of the top things to do in Tallahassee, FL, with your kids.
Its 68,000 acres include a variety of Gulf of Mexico coastal ecosystems such as estuaries, islands, marshes, and tidal creeks.
The refuge has numerous notable buildings, including the St. Marks Lighthouse, Florida’s second oldest lighthouse, which you can visit with your kids.
Tallahassee Antique Car Museum
The Tallahassee Automobile Museum, situated on Mahan Drive, is car-themed. The museum, which opened in 1996, displays collections made up of donated artifacts. In 2007, the museum moved into its current home.
The main structure is 100,000 square feet in size and houses a collection of largely American-made automobiles and things that reflect and celebrate American culture.
Teens and little children will be ecstatic to see three distinct models of Batman’s automobile, the Batmobile, at the museum. They even have the actual Bat-ski-boat on display.
Related: 5 RV Upgrades That Will Improve Your Vacation
San Luis de Apalachee Mission
Mission San Luis de Apalachee is a historic landmark situated west of downtown Tallahassee on West Tennessee Street. It was a Spanish Franciscan mission in the hamlet of Anhaica, the seat of the Apalachee Province, built-in 1633.
The church, the convent, a typical Spanish home, the fort, the blockhouse, and a few others were destroyed, although some have been rebuilt.
Florida Historic Capitol Museum
Located on South Monroe Street, it focuses on political relics, interactive displays, and photography. The museum is situated in the landmark 1845 Historic Capitol Building, restored between 1978 and 1982 to its 1902 form.
The Historic Capital was planned for demolition when the new capital was erected, but locals banded together to rescue it.
The Goodwood Museum and Gardens
The Goodwood Museum and Gardens is a thrilling site that offers a huge 1830s plantation home set on 16 acres of beautiful lawns and gardens, complete with ancient towering trees and outbuildings.
The plantation home, one of the outstanding specimens of antebellum architecture, has unique paintings, glass, furniture, ceramics, linens, and more.
Related: 7 Things To-Do When Buying A Used RV Or Motorhome
Lake Ella
The Lake Ella and Fred Drake Park, located just north of downtown Tallahassee, is a free attraction that includes the 12-acre Lake Ella and the 6.5-acre Fred Drake Park.
It was formerly used to house cattle, but now it has three fountains, picnic shelters, a paved walking track around the lake, and a venue for community activities such as astronomy and fitness.
Lighthouse of St. Marks
The St. Marks Lighthouse is part of the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. St. Marks Lighthouse, built-in 1831, is Florida’s second oldest lighthouse listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The lighthouse has been endangered by conflicts and natural calamities in the years since it was built. Hike the trails, see the lighthouse, or just have lunch at one of the picnic tables with your kids. It’s all up to you.
Related: 25 Best Dog Breeds For Kids And Your Family
The Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail
The Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail is Florida’s first state rail trail, and it follows the abandoned railway line that connects Tallahassee and St. Marks.
The beautiful route is paved, and bikers, runners, inline skaters, and pedestrians visit it to enjoy the lovely vistas. Allow your children to run wild inside a vintage pinball arcade or get some exercise at the district’s indoor rock climbing gym.
Knott House Museum
In 1834, George Proctor constructed the Knott House Museum on East Park Avenue. In 1865, the home briefly functioned as Union headquarters, and Abraham Lincoln read the historic Emancipation Proclamation from the front steps of the Knott House.
After then, the historic mansion was home to various families, including William Knott and his wife, Luella, until being donated to the Historic Tallahassee Preservation Board.
Related: 10 Foods You Have To Try From Around The World
Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park
Situated on the south bank of Lake Jackson in northern Tallahassee. The Lake Jackson Mounds, one of Florida’s most significant archaeological monuments, were the core of the Fort Walton Culture, which flourished between 1050 and 1500 AD.
There are four earthwork mounds in the region and several village houses and a public square.
Lake Talquin State Forest
The Lake Talquin State Forest is a 17,491-acre state forest situated near Tallahassee on Geddie Road. If you’re seeking for romantic activities to do outside, be sure to stop by this wonderful area on your next trip.
The forest is made up of 10 separate parcels of property, the majority of which are located around the Ochlockonee River and Lake Talquin.
Related: Which Paint Color Best Suits Me?
Cascades Park
The 24-acre Cascades Park is a terrific spot to come whether you want to take a leisurely walk through nature or have an exciting, activity-filled day.
Aside from various walking routes, the park’s attractions include the Capital City Amphitheater, which frequently presents local and regional performers, a playground with 73 water jets, another playscape with several smaller attractions, and The Parkview at the Cascades, a stunning events venue.
Lichgate on High Road
A visit to Lichgate on High Road is like entering a storybook. Lichgate, named after ancient English gates, is an ethereal hamlet surrounded by three acres of open space.
After inspecting the grounds and seeing a spectacular live oak tree that goes back to Shakespeare’s time, the late Laura Jepsen, an English professor at Florida State University, purchased the site in 1956.
Related: Tips to Keep Your House Clean as a Pet Owner
Wakulla Springs State Park
Are you ready to take a deep dive? Splash around at Wakulla Springs State Park, home to the world’s deepest freshwater spring. This natural marvel is at the top of the list of things to see in Tallahassee for nature enthusiasts.
Take a glass-bottom cruise to explore the riverways and see manatees and other aquatic creatures. Or put on some fins and a snorkel mask and go to its sandy beaches.
Conclusion
If you’re visiting with kids, these are some of the greatest spots to take them and have some fun. Tallahassee is a great place to visit since there are so many things to choose from and that’s the beauty of it.
