Visit Tallahassee for an experience that’s probably more than you imagined. From nightlife to cultural opportunities like museums, outdoor fun, and more, Florida’s capital has a lot more going for it than most people realize. Whether you love nature, culture, or dining, visit Tallahassee, and you’ll find something that captivates you. That’s probably why Visit Tallahassee’s newest campaign is called “Pretty Unexpected”. They want to showcase what an unexpected gem Tallahassee can be, and frankly, it’s easy to do. The natural beauty of the land, culture, and more things to do than you’ll ever get to in one trip all make Tallahassee a true Florida gem.
I should know. I have recent firsthand experience with this gorgeous city. My family and I recently explored this wonderful city over three days thanks to Visit Tallahassee, and we were completely enamored with the city and everything it has to offer.
My family and I were hosted by Visit Tallahassee and all the mentioned partners below, but all opinions are mine.
So Much to do When You Visit Tallahassee
Located on Florida’s panhandle, about 10 miles south of Georgia, about 25ish miles north of the Gulf of Mexico, and right on the northeastern edge of the Apalachicola National Forest, Tallahassee is uniquely positioned as a “Jack of all trades” kind of town. Don’t worry. It’s a master of them all.
Its location and capital status combine to make it a city that caters to both urban and outdoor lovers, alike. In this bustling metropolis right on the edge of nature, visitors will find museums, fine dining, and concert venues, while being able to step practically outside the city to enjoy the wild beauty of Florida. It’s a combination that makes for a rich destination experience.
Our family’s three days in Tallahassee were certainly filled with exploration and excitement.
Visit Tallahassee – Day One
Day one began with our mid-afternoon arrival at the Hampton Inn & Suites Capitol University. It’s a pleasant hotel that combines style with comfort without hitting your pocketbook like a ton of bricks. In short, it’s everything we’ve come to expect from Hampton Inn, and it made for a wonderful home base during the whirlwind trip.
1. Proof Brewing Co.
Our first stop of the day was Proof Brewing Co. There, we got to experience a tour of their brewery and sample several beers during their Happy Hour. This upscale brewery is adjacent to Cascades Park and takes up an entire city block!
When you visit, you’ll enjoy a modern tasting room, large lawn, covered patio, a private events room, and even an on-site restaurant. They’re open seven days a week, so it’s easy to fit a visit into any trip.
2. Andrew’s Downtown
From the brewery, our family headed to Andrew’s Downtown for dinner. A staple of Tallahassee, Andrew’s has been on the corner of Adams and Jefferson in the heart of downtown for 47 years. After having dinner there, I’m confident it will be on that corner for decades to come.
This beautiful restaurant offers an atmosphere as tasty as the food. A 50-year-old magnolia welcomes diners, beckoning them to come in and enjoy a menu full of tasty feasts like seafood, burgers, and a variety of appetizers just to name a few. All of their ingredients are locally sourced, so the food couldn’t be fresher.
Parking may be tricky to find in this area, but they offer valet service.
3. Third Eye Blind at Capital City Amphitheater
We closed the night with a Third Eye Blind concert at Capital City Amphitheater. The concert itself was wonderful. Third Eye Blind put on a great show and brought back my teen years in a big way. It was a little chilly that night for Tallahassee, but we came prepared.
The Amphitheater itself is wonderful. This 3,500-seat outdoor venue is the centerpiece of Tallahassee’s Cascades Park and hosts all sorts of concerts and events.
Visit Tallahassee – Day Two
Day two, our family did everything from breakfasting at a French pastry shop to touring Backwoods Crossing. It made for a nice cross-section experience of the dining and culture options that the city has to offer.
4. Au Peche Mignon French Pastry Shop
A sweet treat in the city for over 25 years, Au Peche Mignon French Pastry Shop should be a dining destination whenever you visit Tallahassee. This charming little shop features an elegant collection of European sweets, all made from the finest natural ingredients sourced from all over the world.
In addition to sweet treats, you can also enjoy breakfast options like quiche and sandwiches, as well as hot and cold beverages, and more.
5. Florida Historic Capitol Museum
From Au Peche, we made our way to the Florida Historic Capitol Museum.
The restored former capitol building is now as grand as it was in 1902, with its stained-glass dome and candy-striped awnings.
While there, we were able to view exhibits on Florida’s political history, as well as the former House and Senate Chambers, Supreme Court, and the Governer’s Suite. It’s a must-visit for any historical and/or political enthusiast.
6. Goodwood Museum & Gardens
Next on our itinerary was Goodwood Museum & Gardens, the former crown jewel of a 2,400-acre plantation, this once main house has been beautifully restored to its historical glory. The interior is historically accurate, down to using the original furnishings.
The grounds and gardens are also true to their roots, with no plants used that were introduced to the area after 1929. We were able to tour this wonderful site, and the historical significance and beauty can be felt almost physically. It’s a beautiful place that is frequently used for holiday events, live music, and more.
7. Jeri’s Midtown Cafe
When you visit Tallahassee, be sure you stop for a tasty brunch or lunch at Jeri’s Midtown Cafe. Jeri’s serves up more than just great food. They also have the nicest wait staff and restaurant owner I have ever encountered anywhere.
With offerings like pressed Sandwiches, Classic French toast, Charcuterie, and Gouda Grits & Shrimp, just to name a few,
Jeri’s takes the classic southern charm and refined culinary tastes and blends them together for a truly unique, down-home dining experience.
8. Tallahassee Museum
After lunch, we made our way to the Tallahassee Museum, which combines history, nature, and wildlife to make for a complete Tallahassee learning experience. A Tallahassee landmark for over 60 years, the museum sits on 52 acres of beautiful Florida geography.
Ranked as one of Florida’s top museums and featuring living exhibits, nature trails, native gardens, and exhibits which educate visitors on Florida’s environment, history, and cultural communities, this museum is a must-visit for anyone visiting the area.
9. Dinner and Tour of Backwoods Crossing
When you visit Tallahassee, Backwoods Crossing should be on your list of experiences. Combining dining and nature, this 4-acre farm-to-table restaurant creates southing cuisine with a unique twist.
The grounds feature a garden, chickens, quail, rabbits, and even bees, all of which make their way into Backwoods Crossing dishes in one way or another. With locally-sourced ingredients and a passion for fresh food, Backwoods Crossing makes for some of the best dining in Tallahassee.
10. Milkshakes at Sugar Rush Milkshake Bar
When you visit Tallahassee, satisfy your sweet tooth with a delicious shake at Sugar Rush Milkshake Bar. Known as offering the most over the top milkshakes around, Sugar Rush lives up to its reputation.
Whether you opt for a cookie dough milkshake topped with Oreo and chocolate chip cookies or a massive shake with the top of the glass coated in sprinkles and topped with ice cream and an ice cream cone, you’ll have all the sugary shake goodness you can stand here.
Visit Tallahassee – Day three
Our final day was a shorter one, as we’d all have to head back to our respective homes. However, we managed to get in a tour of Mission San Luis, as well as a tasty breakfast and lunch before we had to depart.
11. The Egg Cafe & Eatery
Featuring a delightful atmosphere of laid back elegance, The Egg Cafe & Eatery is a wonderful place to enjoy a tasty meal in a relaxed environment.
Their menu features offerings like large salads overflowing with fresh veggies and fruits, breakfast options like scrambles, pancakes, and eggs, and hearty sandwiches, as well. It’s a greats top for breakfast or lunch when exploring the city.
12. Mission San Luis
From the Egg Cafe, we headed over to tour Mission San Luis, a Spanish Franciscan mission built in 1633.
This Apalachee-Spanish living history museum features grounds that are fully restored and historically accurate. workshops that teach visitors about the lives people led, and even rentable spaces for special events.
We toured the historic grounds, and it was quite an experience. It’s a must-visit for history buffs when visiting Tallahassee. The original buildings and fort area are a sight to behold.
13. Table 23
Before heading back to the hotel to gather our things and head back to our homes, we had a wonderful lunch at Table 23. The restaurant bills itself as a southern porch table and bar, and that description couldn’t be more accurate.
This wonderful eatery combines the laid back charm of southern living and food but adds a modern twist that keeps the menu offerings fresh and unique. Enjoy meals like coconut crusted shrimp, hefty burger and sandwiches, light salads and soups, and some fo the best cocktails and brews around when you stop in to Table 23.
Visit Tallahassee for a Wonderful Vacation Experience
Whether you love nature, history, entertainment, or dining, visit Tallahassee, and you’ll find it all and then some. With remarkable dining establishments, rich cultural options, and wonderful natural areas to explore, Tallahassee has something to delight anyone. When you visit Tallahassee, you’re visiting a place that combines old world, new age, and everything in between for a truly unique travel experience.
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