5. New Capitol Building
Although the New Capitol Building may not have much curb appeal, set your architectural prejudices aside and head inside, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at what you’ll find.
Pass through security and head up to the 22nd floor, where you’ll find the free observation floor. Up here, windows on all sides provide uninterrupted views out over Tallahassee. Some notable things to look for are the Florida State University campus to the north and Cascades Park to the south. At one end of the observation floor is a gallery that features the work of Florida artists.
The business of government takes place here, so you’ll find the Florida House of Representatives and the Florida Senate, both of which have public viewing galleries. A beautiful mural by the acclaimed artist Renee Faure showcases people from Florida’s history. Additional murals by James Rosenquist are on the plaza level.
If you need help planning out the rest of your Florida trip, the helpful folks at Visit Florida are on the main level and have maps, brochures, and an in-depth knowledge of the city and state. In the basement is a cafeteria serving good Southern-style comfort food.
6. Tallahassee Museum
The Tallahassee Museum is not your typical museum. With ziplines, nature trails, and animal exhibits, it’s almost a cross between an adventure park, zoo, and traditional museum. This wide assortment of things to do makes it an ideal destination for the whole family. No matter where you or your gang’s interests lie, the Tallahassee Museum has something for everyone.
Those interested in animals will want to take the elevated boardwalks past 18 different animals that range from bears right through to snakes and even Florida panthers. History buffs will find the 19th-century buildings worthwhile places to wander through, including a church, schoolhouse, caboose, and a plantation home.
If you have an adventurous spirit or have always wanted to try ziplining, buy a ticket to one of the three courses on offer. Set high in the trees, the courses consist of platforms, obstacles, and ziplines. Depending on the course you select, you’ll be up in the trees for up to three hours, so plan accordingly.
Families with small children should swing by the Big Bend Farm. Here, friendly farm animals including cows, mules, chickens, pigs, sheep, and goats are going about their daily lives in a recreated farm from the late 19th century.
