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This sunny city is home to two universities, beautiful trails, and a vibrant arts scene.
If you think only ofbeach townswhen you dream of Florida, think again.
Credit: Sean Pavone Photo/Getty Images
The Sunshine State’s capital city is one of those spots that deserves a second look.
Despite having a population nearing 200,000, Tallahassee still has a small-town feel.
But that’s just one of many reasons to visit, retire, or relocate to Tallahassee.
Lee Hall at Florida A&M University.Credit:Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons /CC BY-SA 4.0
“you’re able to play pickleball and also take free lifelong-learning classes.”
You’re more likely to find Patterson taking a stroll thanplaying pickleball.
He says he’s nearing retirement himself and is happy he won’t have to move.
Credit:Visit Tallahassee
“I came here to go to Florida State in the 1970s and never left.
After four children and four grandchildren, I’m here for good,” he says.
Visit Tallahassee, and you just might be tempted to say the same.
Credit: Visit Tallahassee
And the learning goes both ways.
Hit The Trails
You’ll find a bunch of great outdoor attractions in and around Tallahassee.
AtAlfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park, there are 1,176 acres to explore.
(Peak bloom usually falls in mid to late March.)
The park hosts special events from live jazz to Camellia Christmas.
Running, walking, horseback riding, bird watching, and cycling are all welcome on the 17-mileJ.R.
You’ll find gorgeous views of Piney Z Lake and lots of wildlife there.
Paddle The Rivers
Miles ofpaddling trailscrisscross Tallahassee and the region just waiting for you to explore.
Manatees are most prevalent in the spring from October through March.
Not in the mood for a swim?
Stop in at theJohn G. Riley Center and Museum for African American History & Culturein downtown Tallahassee.
Visitors can see reconstructions of Apalachee and Spanish structures and learn about the history and archaeology of the site.
It’s also adestination for antiquesand cafes.
Shop Downtown
For a more urban setting, head to historic Midtown and its independent merchants.
Browse theMidtown Readerfor yournext great readand discover local Florida authors.
Closer to Capitol Hill, Nic’s Toggery has been outfitting men in fine clothing for three generations.
In-house tailors and a shoe-shine service will ensure gents look their very best.
They also sell sauces, preserves, and stone-ground grits milled right on the property.
Savor Farm-Fresh Food
Brothers Tyler and Jesse Rice take farm-fresh food to another level atBackwoods Crossing.
Black Radishspecializes in locally sourced and seasonal shareable vegetable dishes, handmade pastas, and natural wines.
French, Italian, and Southern-inspired cuisine includes made-from-scratch focaccia, pastas, and desserts.
The equally diverse dessert menu is the brainchild of a James Beard-nominated pastry chef.
Or, grab a quieter picnic table outside on the covered patio.
