Summary
Known for its rolling hills and quiet suburban lifestyle, Tallahassee has something to offer for everyone, including a multitude of free and inexpensive activities. What are you waiting for? Get out and explore!
Whether you’re a visitor or a local, there are plenty of free things to do in Tallahassee. Known for its rolling hills and quiet suburban lifestyle, the city has a lot more to offer than most people realize. We’ve composed a list of free activities you can explore the next time you’re looking for something fun to do around town.
1. Florida State University
Start your day exploring one of the nation’s top public universities. With immaculately kept grounds, there is beauty everywhere you look at FSU. Enjoy a picnic on Landis Green, try the fresh-squeezed lemonade from Mom and Pops, check out the newly renovated Student Union and FSU Bookstore, and much more. On the outskirts of campus, you can visit the infamous Doak Campbell Stadium and Westcott Fountain.
FSU also has the Museum of Fine Arts, which is free to the public. It’s the perfect activity for those who enjoy visiting modern art galleries. There’s truly something for everyone, with different exhibits and themes that are rotated frequently. More information about admission and hours can be found on their website.
After you tour the campus, you can visit Collegetown. This area is within walking distance from campus and has several cute shops, restaurants, and bars to explore.
Address: 600 W College Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32306
2. Historic Railroad Square Art District
This colorful warehouse district is home to 50 artist studios, galleries, and small shops. Local thrift stores and an indoor rock-climbing gym are among the many activities available. There are also local restaurants nearby such as the Square Mug Cafe and Crumbox.
Every first Friday of the month they host the “First Friday, Gallery Hop” from 6-9 pm. Locals love coming together for this festival where Railroad Square comes to life with live music, food trucks, and art. Second Saturdays of the month feature open galleries and shops during the day and evening events at the Square Mug Cafe and Crumbox.
Address: 661 Railroad Sq, Tallahassee, FL 32310
3. Capitol Building & Downtown Area
The old capitol was the third Florida capital building ever built. It was completed in 1845, just before Florida became the 27th state to join the union. The building still stands today, and while it is no longer used for legislative purposes, it serves as a museum displaying Florida’s political history. It is now known as the Florida Historic Capitol Museum. The newer capitol building is 22 stories tall and the third tallest capitol building in the United States. A trip to the top provides an unforgettable view of the entire city.
These structures are open to the public for free, but donations are always welcome. Please visit the websites linked above to see specific hours for each building.
After you’ve finished at the capitol buildings, you can explore the surrounding downtown area. Downtown Tallahassee is home to many local bars and fine-dining restaurants, including Bar 1903, Il Lusso, and Savour.
Address: 400 S Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL 32399
4. Cascades Park
Cascades Park is a beautiful public park located near downtown Tallahassee. It features a fun discover playground and an imagination fountain for children to play in. It’s a great spot for picnics on the lush green grass that overlooks the cascading waters. The park’s three trails are suitable for walks, jogs, and cycling; furry friends are also welcome! Throughout the trails, there are also numerous blue benches that are perfect for taking in the beauty of the landscape.
The Adderley Amphitheater, located in the heart of the park, is its main attraction. It hosts a variety of interactive events such as the Downtown Concert Series and occasional movie nights (the majority of which are free to the public). You can check out Cascades Park’s website for any upcoming events! Other must-sees include the Smokey Hollow Commemoration and the Korean Wall Memorial.
After visiting the park, you can grab a nice meal or go out for drinks at The Edison or Charlie Park, both of which are just a short walk away.
Address: 1001 S Gadsden St, Tallahassee, FL 32301
5. Lake Ella
Lake Ella is one of Tallahassee’s most underrated destinations, boasting natural beauty that everyone can appreciate. You’re free to feed the ducks, let your children climb the infamous large tree, take a stroll around the lake, enjoy the view from the gazebo, or window shop at the surrounding white cottages. Local businesses include Big Easy Snowballs and the Black Dog Cafe, among many other local shops.
Address: S Lake Ella Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32303
6. Tom Brown Park
Tom Brown Park was designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind and is one of the city’s most interactive parks. In the abundant green space, there are numerous activities to choose from, such as the widely renowned BMX tracks, a playground, dog parks, tennis courts, soccer and baseball fields, sand volleyball courts, and trails for jogging, hiking, and biking. If you’re looking for a fun group activity, you can also play disc golf with your friends on the popular disc golf course. This Tallahassee favorite is sure to always keep you entertained!
Address: 443-557 Easterwood Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32311
7. Fred George Basin Greenway
Parents on the northwest side of town love the park at Fred George! Built within the past few years, children enjoy the play area, which includes a rock climbing wall, tunnels, slides, and a fireman pole! The turf is made of recycled rubber, which makes for a soft landing for toddlers’ tumbles. In total, the park contains 160 acres of land, 2 miles of hiking trails, restrooms, and even a Saturday museum occasionally run by volunteers. There are also baseball and soccer fields as well as a youth complex for multi-use.
Address: 3043 Capital Cir NW, Tallahassee, FL 32303
8. J. R. Alford Greenway
This stunning greenway has 17 miles of wooded trails and open terrain for runners, hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians to enjoy. You can travel across the beloved bridge that spans above the railroad tracks and, if you’re lucky, see the train pass right beneath you! These trails lead to an incredible view of Piney-Z Lake and the Lafayette Heritage Trail, where you can get a first-hand look at the park’s flora and fauna.
Address: 2500 Pedrick Rd, Tallahassee, Fl 32317
9. Goodwood Museum & Gardens
The Goodwood Museum & Gardens was once a plantation that housed several generations of Tallahassee residents for over 190 years. Some of the original plantation architecture still stands today. This residence now serves as a museum and memorial to the enslaved African Americans who resided there in the early nineteenth century. There are also many beautiful gardens and a reflection pool that are perfect for pictures or even just a quiet stroll.
The grounds are open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Saturday from 10 pm to 2 pm. They are free to enter and explore. A house tour costs $12 for general admission, $10 for veterans, seniors, and students (with ID), $6 for children ages 6 to 12, $8 for groups of 10 or more, and free for Goodwood members.
Address: 1600 Miccosukee Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32308
10. Cherokee Sink
This natural treasure is just a 25-minute drive and a short hike from Tallahassee – but the trip is well worth it. The beautiful blue-green sinkhole has refreshing spring water that is ideal for cooling off in the blazing summer heat. This secluded area is great for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the natural Florida serenity.
Address: Cherokee Sink, FL 32327
11. Public Art Walks
Tallahassee offers several self-guided public art walks to explore, which you can take part in with a group or even on your own! There are multiple walks to choose from, including the Downtown Public Art Walk and the Gaines Street Public Art Walk – both offer scenic views of Tallhassee’s finest and most unique outdoor pieces. More information on the tours and maps can be found on their website.
Address: Locations vary, please visit the website for specific details.
Low-Cost Activities
While these attractions are not free, they do charge affordable admission fees and provide unforgettable experiences that are worth every penny.
1. Alfred B. Maclay Gardens
The bricked paths take you through a gorgeous scene and gardens, perfect for a picturesque walk. The lake is available for taking a boat ride or simply enjoying the view from the shores.
Admission: Up to $6 per vehicle, not including gardens; $2 for pedestrians and cyclists
Address: 3540 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32309
2. The Rez
The Reservation, or ‘Rez,’ is a Florida State University amenity that provides a variety of activities for both students and visitors. It sits on the shores of Lake Bradford, where you can go kayaking, paddle boarding, or canoeing. There are also sand volleyball courts, picnic tables, a high ropes course, and a small sunbathing area on the lake’s shores.
Admission: Free for students and $5 entry fee for other guests
Address: 3226 Flastacowo Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32310
3. Mission San Luis
From 1656 to 1704, the area was the location of La Florida’s western mission, where Apalachee Indians and incoming Spaniards coexisted. During your visit, you can observe recreated scenes from the mission and interact with 300-year-old excavated artifacts. Guests can also explore the many trails throughout the park as they travel back in time to the early days of Florida’s history.
The park is open from 10 am to 4 pm, Tuesday through Sunday.
Admission: Up to $5 per guest; children under 6 and active military enter free
Address: 2100 W Tennessee St, Tallahassee, FL 32304
4. Lake Jackson Mounds State Park
Six of the seven known Native American temple grounds are safeguarded here, with two open to the public. Within the park, there are two hiking trails where you can explore the plants and wildlife, as well as a pavilion and picnic tables for gatherings.
Open 8 am to Sundown all year.
Admission: $3 per vehicle
Address: 3600 Indian Mound Rd, Tallahassee FL 32303
In addition to all of these scenic sites, Tallahassee hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year to get the community involved. You can see what events are coming up next by looking at this calendar.
**Images used in this post are credited to the organization that provided the photo. If you are the creator of the image and would like it removed, please get in touch with us via the form on the Contact page.**