Tallahassee

The first stop on our walking tour was at the Leon County Welcome Center on East Jefferson Street. Here we found lots of brochures, maps, friendly attendants, and clean restrooms. (Note: Tallahassee is hilly, and we’re used to flat land. Walking up and down the hilly streets added to the adventure. Not too bad though.)

Our focus on this trip was the Old Capitol. The core of this historic building was built in 1845, the same year Florida became a U.S. state. Wings for the Senate and House were added in 1936 and 1947. A tour of the building provides a visual and audio history through exhibits, furnishings, paintings, and architecture.

Located behind the Old Capitol across the plaza is Florida’s present multi-storied capitol, which was completed in 1977. Within the capitol are the governor’s office, cabinet offices, and the Senate and House Chambers. From the front steps of the capitol the Supreme Court building can be seen across Duval Street.

Behind the Supreme Court building on Bronough Street is the Museum of Florida History. The state archives and library are located within the Museum. The museum is free and is well worth the visit. Several interactive exhibits provide fun and insight into the past. Adults and children will enjoy this museum. Parking is free.

Restaurants, shops, and other interesting venues are within walking distance of the Capitol as well as various historic sites located within driving distance of Downtown;

Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park
Mission San Luis de Apalachee