3. Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
Located north of Tallahassee on the former estate of Alfred B. and Louise Maclay, this state park is a must-see for gardeners. An incredible display of azaleas, camellias, dogwoods, and magnolias are artfully arranged throughout the park. Each spring, they burst into a kaleidoscope of colors.
However, the park is not all about flowers. It’s also an ideal place to visit to go walking, biking, or horseback riding. Winding their way throughout the park are five miles of trails that all users share equally; in the Overstreet section, three miles are reserved exclusively for bicycles. No need to worry if you don’t have your own wheels, rentals are available.
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park is also an ideal place to get out on the water. You can rent a kayak, or bring your own, and paddle around Lake Hall. The lake is also a largemouth bass hot spot, with bream and bluegill rounding out the denizens of the deep. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit as well. The park has a sandy swimming area, and a dip in the cool fresh water is the best way to beat the Florida heat.
It’s not all about being active here. The park is chock-full of history. Swing by the visitor center to learn more about the park’s namesake, Alfred B. Maclay. In the spring, the original 1909 home, perfectly preserved with period pieces and décor, is available for tours.
4. Florida Historic Capitol Museum
The Florida Historic Capitol Museum is easily identified by its trademark white- and red-striped awnings, providing welcome shade from the hot Florida sun. The museum is housed in the former state capitol building first built in 1845 (and expanded over the years). The history and architecture of the building is almost as interesting as the displays inside.
The stunning rotunda area, with its stained-glass ceiling, takes you back to an earlier time when horse and buggies were more common at the front entrance than automobiles. The museum displays are focused on the political history of the state, from its founding right through to today. Wander through the 21 rooms of exhibits consisting of photographs and audio and visual displays along with memorabilia. The Florida Historical Capitol Museum has over 250 items in its permanent collection.
In addition to the exhibits, several important rooms have been restored to their 1902 glory. These include the key elements of a functioning democracy and include the Governor’s office and chambers, the Supreme Court, Senate, and House of Representatives.
An interesting side note is that in the late 1970s this classic building, listed on the National Register of Historical Places, was slated for demolition to make room for surrounding elements of the New Capitol Building (now seen in behind). A concerted effort by the local citizenry stopped what would have been a major travesty.
