The Old Capitol in Tallahassee is known for its grand architecture and historic chambers.
Photo Credit: Tallahassee Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
A life-size mastodon skeleton is a highlight at The Museum of Florida History in Tallahassee.
Photo Credit: Tallahassee Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
Step back in time at Mission San Luis in Tallahassee.
Photo Credit: Tallahassee Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
Goodwood Museum & Gardens' picturesque East Lawn, Tallahassee
Photo Credit: Amanda Chamberlain Hammerli
Tallahassee is full of surprising (and surprisingly entertaining) historical spots that give you a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Sunshine State.
"Historical site" and "hotspot" aren't often used in the same sentence, but Tallahassee breaks with tradition to offer cultural attractions that are not only educational, but downright entertaining.
Hotspot #1: Downtown Cultural District
What rhymes with "hot?" Affectionately referred to as "the house that rhymes," The Knott House is a must-visit on any historical tour of Tallahassee. Its poetic moniker is due to the short notes of verse attached to the home's Victorian furnishings by former owner and poet, Luella Knott (wife of politician William Knott). Built in 1843, the home once acted as temporary Union Headquarters; in fact, you can stand on the same front steps where, in 1865, Brigadier General Edward McCook announced the Emancipation Proclamation.
Just a few blocks away, the 1890 John G. Riley House further commemorates African-American history through multicultural outreach programs, special exhibits and walking tours.
Next stop is The Museum of Florida History and its life-size mastodon skeleton (a reminder of just how hot history can be – especially if you lived at the end of the Ice Age).
Of course, no visit to Florida's capital city is complete without a tour of Florida Historic Capitol Museum. Though the last state employee left in 1978, the grand building still welcomes visitors to tour the Governor's Suite, Supreme Court and Senate and House chambers.
Tallahassee is perhaps most well known for its political history, and many of the legislative decisions within the capital city were often made outside of the capitol building. One area hotspot that has historically been a hotbed of debate is Andrew's Capital Grill & Bar (for lunch, nosh on a "Bob Gra-HAM Burger," named after the influential state politician).
Each January, 150 varieties of camellias burst into full bloom and the Maclay House, a historic hunting lodge turned winter residence turned museum, opens for tours (through April). It's a sure sign that spring has sprung in Tallahassee.
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Visit Tallahassee
Tallahassee Museum
Goodwood Museum & Gardens
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
Museum of Florida History
Mission San Luis
Knott House Museum
Florida Historic Capitol & Museum
John G. Riley Center/Museum
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