Free Things to Do in Tallahassee
Quick Travel Guide to Florida's Capital City
Hanging chads, eccentric folks and funky creations are some of the free things to do and see in Tallahassee.
College athletics and politics are major players in Tallahassee's culture but there are other things to do in the Capital City. This quick travel guide highlights five free things to do in Tallahassee for both residents and visitors.
Follow a Legacy
Florida State University's Legacy Walk leads visitors along a path of architectural beauty and historical significance while telling the university's story. The Epps Walk was the first of four walks unveiled in 2004. The walk begins at a life-size bronze statue of Francis Epps, the former Tallahassee mayor who was instrumental in establishing Florida State University in 1851. The second walk is the Student Legacy Walk, meandering along sites honoring outstanding students of the past and present. Walks three and four are forthcoming.
The Knott House Museum
Step into the eccentric world of the Knotts, the family who inhabited the house between 1928 and 1985. Luella Knott, matron of the household, was deep into the temperance movement while her husband, William Knott (who held various positions within the state's government) hid nips of adult beverages in secret places, such as in his walking canes.
Mrs. Knott was passionate about poetry and wrote poems about the home's pieces of furniture. Today, visitors will see note cards with little poems tied to chairs and knickknacks with satin ribbon. Historians believe the Knott House was built in 1843. Admission is free and donations are welcomed.
The Museum of Florida History
Mastodons, Highwaymen and Spanish coins are as much a part of Florida's history as Mickey Mouse, mermaids and orange groves. The museum encapsulates Florida's history by displaying significant moments which impacted the Sunshine State. Displays include a history of the Seminole Indians and impact from the Civil War and World War II.
Pop culture history includes artwork by the Highwaymen, an art style which began in the 1950s by African Americans. Florida souvenirs like kitsch salt and pepper shakers, cups shaped like oranges and colorful postcards are on display, too. Play captain on a partial steamboat replica and sort through grandma's attic for a walk down Florida's memory lane. Admission is free and donations are welcomed.
The Old Capitol
The 2000 presidential elections is when the world questioned whether Floridians knew how to vote or not. The Old Capitol, which houses the Florida Center of Political History and Governance, has the voting paraphernalia which caused a stir. Notably is Palm Beach's infamous butterfly ballot and those darn hanging chads. The rest of Florida's political history is on display including ties, buttons and bumper stickers from past governor races, the walking shoes of "Walkin' Lawton" Chiles (Florida's 41st Governor) and a media room for wannabe newscasters to record and take home a news report.
It's easy to spot the Old Capitol, it's the big white building with red and white striped awning. The Old Capitol was built in 1885 and houses Florida's political past and present. The museum explains a big question, "Why is Tallahassee Florida's capital?" A very simple explanation is revealed in the Old Capitol Museum. Admission is free and donations are welcomed.
Railroad Square Art Park
The eclectic and cool people chill in Railroad Square Art Park, especially the first Friday of the month. The art park is made up of more than 80 galleries, boutiques and studios focusing on the creative, funky and classic. There's even a restaurant serving lunch (dinner on the first Friday of the month) in a cute red train caboose. A sculpture garden with oversized modern art makes a nice setting for a picnic.
The first Friday of each month Railroad Square hosts a gallery hop where studios, galleries and shops stay open later. Some serve complimentary refreshments and live music entertains patrons as they enjoy Tallahassee's art. And yes, it's free.
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