Your Guide to a Weekend Getaway in Tallahassee
Tallahassee isn’t just the capital of Florida, it’s also the home to two colleges, rolling hills, and a rich cultural scene. I’ve lived in Florida for two years - and I finally headed west from the East Coast to explore the rolling hills of the state’s capital city.
Tally isn’t just a college town - it has a rich cultural scene. Spring is festival season in the city - and I was invited out to Word of South. It’s a festival celebrating all things Literature and Music in the Sunshine State. Since I’m a book lover - this event was right up my alley.
Dress: Here
Where to Stay
The Hyatt House Capital is the perfect spot to rest and plan your weekend in the city. It’s the Railraod Square district - which is a hip area filled with local murals, fun shops, and places to eat. There’s also access to the River area to walk and bike, and it’s right down the road from both Florida State University and FAMU.
Where to Eat and Drink
Lucky Goat Coffee - I loved this local coffee shop! There’s one in the downtown area, as well as in the Railroad Square district. They specialize in cold brew, but their iced lattes are equally as good.
Amicus Brewing - who doesn’t enjoy a glass of sparkling wine on a Friday evening? To me, that speaks weekend getaway. Amicus Brewing is right next to Cascades Park in downtown Tally.
Hayward House - this place is really special! If you’re looking for fine dining downtown, this is a spot to check out.
What to See and Do
Visit FSU campus - Florida State has a gorgeous campus with a lot of college spirit! If you’re in town in the fall, you really can’t miss a college football game. But any time of year is a great time of year to take a walking tour around this campus.
We checked out the campus bookstore and the student union (which has a whole brewery inside! Just really cool vibes.
Explore Cascades Park - this park in the center of downtown is not to be missed. It’s a lovely place to bike, walk and even picnic. And if you’re in town during spring festival season, there’s probably a concert in the amphitheater at the park’s center. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy some live music.
Enjoy a Walking Tour - You can book a walking tour or even a Capital Scavenger Hunt on Viator. This is the perfect way to explore the city and get to know Tally while having fun!
Head out to a State Park - there are so many state parks within just a few minutes from Tally. We checked out Wakulla Springs, which is just a 15-minute drive away. I loved the nature at this state park and we enjoyed the 45-minute boat ride, complete with baby alligators!
Springs Events to put on your Calendar
Tally comes alive in the spring - so if you’re planning a trip (or want to plan a trip) here are some events you should know about.
Springtime Tallahassee - March 28, 2025. This will be the 57th year of this premier spring event in the Capital City, and it looks SO fun! There are parades and costumes and arts and crafts.
Word of South - I’ve already put this on my calendar for next year! Mark your calendars for April 4-6, 2025.
Chain of Parks Festival - I love how many state parks there are around Tally - and each spring, there’s an entire festival celebrating a few of them. This free event kicks of April 26, 2025.
Tally also celebrates Pride in the Plaza in the spring - 2025 dates haven’t been announced yet, but definitely keep an eye out for them!
Visit Tallahassee has a complete list of spring events - so be sure to check their calendar, because I know there’s one that will be right up your alley!