20 Unique Things To Do In Tallahassee Florida

1. Attend Springtime Tallahassee Parade

Featuring mechanical floats from all over the southeastern United States, the Springtime Tallahassee Parade attracts over 200,000 visitors, one of the biggest southeastern parades and craft shows. 

The parade is dedicated to Tallahassee's history through the production of annual community festivals. The visitors can enjoy music festivals, local artist fairs, and more alongside the Grand Parade. 

The main highlight of the event is to join a krewe. From Spanish to American Territorial and even Antebellum, find yourself a krewe and build a float to partake in the parade. 

2. Partake in FSU's Lakefront Park Adventure

The FSU's LakeFront Park and Retreat Center is a 73-acre facility, with 10 active acres, located on beautiful Lake Bradford. 

The Lakefront Park features a unique setting where you can enjoy different fun activities in Tallahassee like canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, picnicking, swimming, sand volleyball, disc golf, and many others. 

Whether it is to enjoy the cool shade adjacent to the waterfront or under pavilions, available for reservations, the park offers something for everyone. However, alcohol and pets are not allowed at the park.

3.. Listen To Pops In The Park At SouthWood

There is no better way to celebrate the arrival of spring in Tallahassee than listening to the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra's pop overlooking the Southwood neighborhood's Central Park Lake.

This beautiful park forms a fantastic setting for the spectacular sounds of the symphony. Children and parents alike can be seen enjoying the music, finding themselves serenaded by the sound from the stage.

You can have a picnic, enjoy the local stalls, or even make a reservation for tables of 8 during the event. Admission for adults is $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Kids are FREE!

4. Attend The TMH Gala

Dating back to 1984, the Golden Gala or TMH Gala began as a fundraising event started by a group of dedicated and energetic individuals - led by the late M.T. Mustian, then president and CEO of TMH. 

Fast forward to 2024, and the event is still active, recording 135,000 Emergency and Urgent Health Care Center visits to its two Urgent Care Centers and two Emergency Centers last year. 

Moreover, the Gala features delicious foods and amazing musical events featuring artists like Maroon 5 in 2013 and Keith Urban in 2023. So, attend the Gala and enjoy the fun social activities in Tallahassee Fl with a premier charitable event of the year. 

5. Tour The Tallahassee Museum

Located at 3945 Museum Rd, Tallahassee, the Tallahassee Museum is a 52-acre lakeside site featuring wildlife, nature trails, period exhibits, events, and zipline tours.

From enriching group activities to specialized workshops, animal encounters, and night walks, the Museum offers something for all ages.  

Some of the main highlights of the Tallahassee Museum are its annual Swamp Stomp Festival, Tree-to-Tree Adventure, and Aerial Adventure through Zipline. Moreover, you can have otter and alligator encounters and even enjoy the nighttime visit to the animals at the museum making it one of the fun things to do in Tallahassee Florida.

6. Enjoy FAMU's Black History Month Events

As one of the historically Black colleges located in Tallahassee, Florida A&M University (FAMU) has played a significant role in African American history. Throughout February, FAMU invites everyone to join in the celebration of Black History Month with a series of events, including speakers, activities, and other programs.

These events honor and recognize the achievements of Black leaders both locally and globally, offering an enriching experience that highlights the contributions and history of the African American community.

7. See The Architect Of Tallahassee During The Annual Parade Of Homes

Organized annually by the Tallahassee Builder's Association, the Parade of Homes features local area builders showcasing their finest work. You can explore everything from cozy three-bedroom bungalows to luxurious custom million-dollar homes.

Whether you're looking for renovation inspiration, considering a new home, or just enjoying touring beautiful properties, this event is a must-see. Held during the first two weekends in May, it provides a unique opportunity to see the latest trends in home design and construction.

Don’t miss what might be the most enjoyable and informative event for adults in Tallahassee.

8. Watch The FSU Flying High Circus

The FSU Flying High Circus has brought students together for over 75 years, and to become part of one of the oldest and most unique collegiate traditions in Tallahassee is an exciting thing to do. Featuring both in-air and on-the-ground performances, the FSU circus puts on a unique show that will pique the interest of any age group. 

The FSU circus suffered greatly from a tornado that struck the campus, affecting the major performance site. However, the place is still open and shows are still running with even limited-time events and customs like limited-edition pink lemonade cocktail.

However, there will be no performances in the tent during the year-long reconstruction project but plans to return to the campus community are on the horizon.

9. Visit Lake Ella And Fred Drake Park

Located at 645 Lake Ella Drive, Lake Ella, and Drake Park offers a charming and serene setting for different recreational things to do in Tallahassee Florida. The park was once a part of the dairy farm in the early 20th century before being developed into a public park.

The park offers walking and jogging trails, picnicking spots with scenic views, and a great wildlife-watching experience with decorative fountains. Community festivals like arts and crafts fairs and seasonal celebrations like holiday festivals and fireworks on July 4 are organized by the park making it a peaceful retreat.

10. Drive The City's Canopy Roads

Covering more than 78 miles of intriguing shaded drives, the Tallahassee Canopy roads offer a peaceful sense of quiet adventure. 

Featuring limbs of huge moss-draped live oaks, sweet gums, hickory trees, and pines, the 9 official canopy roads were once traveled by the native tribes. These scenic drives are one of the stuffs to do in Tallahassee. 

The Miccosukee Road extends into east-northeast Leon country, and the old Centerville dates to the early 19th century, shortly after the founding of Tallahassee. To the northwest is the Meridian Road, established as the prime meridian for use in surveying all of Florida, and to the southeast is Old St. Augustine Road which linked the Spanish mission from Tallahassee in the 17th century.

11. Visit The Railroad Square Art District

The Railroad Square Art District is a vibrant area known for its artistic community and unique cultural events. The district occupies the site of the formal industrial park and is a main focus for local artists, creative businesses, and cultural events offering a diverse range of art galleries, studios, shops, and performance spaces. 

The district houses multiple art galleries showcasing contemporary and traditional works by local and regional artists. It also features unique shops and boutiques offering handmade crafts, vintage items, clothing, and jewelry.

In addition, the district hosts various events throughout the year including art shows, workshops, and community festivals making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in arts, culture, and community. 

12. Go To The Florida State University

Florida State University is a significant attraction site in Tallahassee, offering a variety of cultural and artistic events on a beautiful campus featuring architecture and landscaped grounds. 

The University is home to the FSU Museum of Fine Arts offering rotating art exhibitions, and the Ruby Diamond Concert Hall which hosts a variety of performances including concerts, plays, and lectures. There is also a school of theatre known for its high-quality productions ranging from classic plays to contemporary works. 

The University also organizes athletics and sports events like Florida State Seminoles, public exhibits, and different community engagement activities regularly. 

13. Go To Cascades Park

The Cascades Park in Tallahassee is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike as it offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year. 

The main feature of the park is the Capital City Amphitheater. This outdoor venue hosts many concerts and performances featuring local, national, and international artists. From rock and pop to jazz and classical music, you will get the taste of it all. 

In addition, the parks also hosts the springtime Tallahassee festival annually, a weekly food truck Thursday, and other annual festivals like the Independence Day Celebration with live music and family-friendly activities. 

14. Dirt Bike In The Apalachicola National Forest

The Apalachicola National Forest is home to some of the most unique flora and fauna in the world. Here, locals and visitors can enjoy safe, family-friendly activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking, and trail riding surrounded by diverse ecosystems. 

The forest includes motorized trails spanning over 100 miles, making it a prime destination for dirt bikers looking to let it loose and have some fun. Most of the areas are smooth and sandy, offering a great riding experience while enjoying nature, however, it can get slippery in places. 

But why stop there? Go for nature viewing in a scenic driving experience, or get yourself a peaceful and cozy space for a picnic amidst all the fun and recreation.

15. Hike At Leon Sinks

Located in the Apalachicola Wildlife Management Area, the Leon Sinks Geological Area is based on the Woodville Karst Plain in southwestern Leon Country. It is a mature karstic area on the upper Floridan Aquifer and is one of the most extensive underwater cave systems in the world which connects to Wakulla Springs.  

One of the most famous hikes of Florida State is the hike at Leon Sinks, featuring rugged but fun trails filled with botanical beauty, especially in early springs. The trail system includes two loops.

The blue-based sinkhole trail is 3.1 miles while the blazed lime green (the Gum Swamp Trail) forks off it to graze along the edges of the swamps. The hike shares a 0.7-mile crossroads and describes the full outer loop of 4.5 miles.   

16. Visit The Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park

The Alfred B. Maclay Garden State Park is a masterpiece of floral architecture featuring a picturesque brick wall, a secret garden reflection pool, a walled garden, and hundreds of camellias and azaleas. 

Near it is Lake Hall which provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. In addition, the pavilion and grills along the lake shore provide the perfect setting for a picnic.

The park also features two short nature meanders through the woods overlooking the lakes for walk enthusiasts a shared six miles of trails for hikers and bicyclists and five miles of designated biking trails winding through the woods.

17. Hike Through Providence Canyon

Located at 8930 Canyon Road, the Providence Canyon, also known as Georgie's Little Garden Canyon is famous for its hiking tours and natural attractions. Spanning over 1,003 acres in area, the park has two main hiking trails: the Canyon Loop Trail (White Blaze) and the Backcountry Trail (Red Blaze).

The White Blaze is just 2.45 miles long has moderate difficulty and takes you around the rim of the canyons, offering panoramic views of the canyons below. However, The Red Blaze is 7 miles long and is for more experienced hikers.

This trail takes you through the rugged backcountry areas of the park and includes several steep ascents and descents offering a more secluded hiking experience. 

18. Collect Antiques From Havana

The Havana, in its early days, was a center for tobacco production. Following it, far-sighted merchants transitioned the heart of the downtown district into a center for antiques, furniture, and restaurants to create a popular day trip destination for travelers from across western Florida and neighboring Georgie and Alabama. 

This historic town located just northwest of Tallahassee, offers the same charming and historic atmosphere of activities in Tallahassee. Some notable antique features of the town are its historic downtown including antique shops, boutiques, and restored historic buildings retaining their original architecture.

Furthermore, there are also the historic shade tobacco barns and historic homes. The town also organizes annual events like PumpkinFest and Holiday Festival. 

19. Jump Off The High Dive At Wakulla Spring State Park

Located within the Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park in Florida, the Wakulla Springs is known for its stunning natural beauty and recreational activities. One of its iconic features is the high dive platform, which provides visitors with a thrilling experience. 

The high dive platform is approximately 22 feet above the ground and is a popular destination for visitors looking for an adrenaline rush. The platform is regularly maintained and jumping from this height into the clear water of Wakulla is an exhilarating experience. The springs also feature other activities like swimming, glass bottom boat tours, and bird watching.

20. Enjoy the Sunset at St. Mark's Lighthouse

You cannot end your trip without looking at a sunset. But why look at it from any normal place? Go to the St. Mark's Lighthouse located in St. Mark National Wildlife Refuge and enjoy the breathtaking experience with the stunning view of the Gulf of Mexico and the surrounding natural landscape. 

The St. Marks lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in Florida and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can expect one of the most beautiful scenic views from the edge of Apalachee Bay, offering panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Moreover, its picturesque view makes it one of the stuffs to do in Tallahassee.