Most people's knowledge of Florida's capital city comes from seeing it on TV during a particularly heated legislative session, or from dropping the kids off at one of the universities. But there's more than politics and peer pressure in Tallahassee. The capital city is home to a few of Florida's finest restaurants and some of the prettiest scenery this side of the Mason Dixon line. Which makes it the perfect place to eat well and walk off the calories this winter.

You can go it alone by picking up a Walking Guide to Historic Downtown at the downtown Visitor Center (across from City Hall). But that's not nearly as fun as touring with Dr. Tom.
Some of Tallahassee's best sightseeing is done by car. You can also pick up a driving tour guide from the Visitor Center or, for a shorter version, just head down Miccosukee Road.

Dr. Tom, a scientist-turned-professional photographer, offers nine eco-tours throughout the state's Nature Coast. The Tallahassee Hills Tour is a five-hour adventure through rolling hills, dry flatwoods and hardwood hammocks, with a bit of plantation history thrown in for good measure. The level of difficulty can be adjusted to what best suits your party.

Lunch options abound, but you can't go wrong with one of the inventive dishes that change daily at Food Glorious Food. Sit outside under the shade of live oaks that glow with twinkling lights come nightfall.

Some of Tallahassee's best sightseeing is done by car. You can also pick up a driving tour guide from the Visitor Center or, for a shorter version, just head down Miccosukee Road. This handsome canopy road is overhung with oaks drenched in Spanish moss, flanked by red clay embankments the folks around here call "Tallahassee Red Hills."

Pull over for Goodwood Museum & Gardens, Tallahassee's queen of antebellum plantations. Stretch your legs in the gardens, abloom in heirloom flowers, and take a tour of the elegant main house. Back in the car, the canopy road turns especially pretty about three miles past the museum.

Head back into town (and the 21st century) for dinner at Mozaik, whose American fusion food is as eclectic as its name but much sweeter on the tongue (or spicier, depending on what you order). Splurge for dessert – you've earned it.


PLAY:

Bradley's 1927 Country Store: Moon pies, cola and homemade sausage: The father, son and holy ghost of country eatin'. Family-run.

Knott House Museum: Poems written by Luella Knott and hung throughout the house lent it the nickname "The House That Rhymes." Original furnishings.

Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park: More azaleas and camellias in bloom than you can count January 1 - April 30, peaking mid-March.


EAT:

Kool Beanz: No, it's not a coffee shop. It's a funky bistro where you'll likely have to wait for a seat weekend nights, but it's worth it. Creative menu changes daily. You'd be a fool to pass up dessert.

Cypress Restaurant: Regional southern cuisine in a hip atmosphere. Considered one of Tally's best restaurants. Just don't forget your wallet – perfection doesn't come cheap.

Chez Pierre: Considered by most locals to be Tallahassee's classiest restaurant. Serving delicious French cuisine in a historic brick home. Outside seating available overlooking the beautifully landscaped expansive backyard.


STAY:

The Inn at Park Avenue: Lovely accommodations in an 1838 Victorian home owned by the same family for generations.

For more information on getting away to Tallahassee, visit the Tallahassee Convention & Visitors Bureau's website at www.visitTallahassee.com.