Day Trips from the Capital City
Tallahassee’s unique charm and style is derived from the undeniably pretty and often unexpected features found in and around Florida’s Capital. Centrally located in the northern part of the state, here are some of the best day trips to explore during your extended stay in the Capital City.
Big Bend Scenic Byway
Tallahassee is the starting point for this 220 mile natural forest and coastal trail. Here wildlife and trails meet history and adventure. To help make the drive more enjoyable, Directional Signage has been installed throughout the route as well as twelve Visitor Information Centers offering maps and literature with information on Green Guides for fishing, kayaking, hiking, biking, birding, and more. To download the newest guide, click here.
Gulf Specimen Marine Lab
Located approximately 30 miles from Tallahassee, the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab is a popular attraction offering marine biology experiences through interactive touch aquariums and a variety of demonstration programs.
Thomasville, Georgia
Just across the Georgia state line to the northeast of Tallahassee is the picturesque town of Thomasville. The brick-paved streets lined with quaint shops and distinctive restaurants offer a blend of southern charm and emerging sophistication. Be sure to stock up on farm-fresh artisanal cheeses at Sweet Grass Dairy Cheese Shop or handmade chocolates at Sweet CaCao. No visit to Thomasville would be complete without a tour of Pebble Hill Plantation, a prime example of a 20th century sporting estate with an expansive collection of art and historical items.
St. Marks and One of Florida’s Oldest Lighthouses
The village of St. Marks is located in Wakulla County about 20 miles south of Tallahassee. The quaint fishing village is home to the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and Lighthouse. The area is known for its salt marshes, tidal flats, freshwater pools and is a nature lovers paradise.
Florida Caverns State Park
Take a short drive just 68 miles east of Tallahassee to experience the cool air, sound of dripping water, a visual array of mystifying stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones and draperies – and explore the otherworldly depths of Florida Caverns in Marianna. 
Apalachicola, Florida
The warm, welcoming coastal community of Apalachicola is found 76 miles southwest of Tallahassee. Here you’ll find casual shops and river-front oyster bars in a relaxed oceanside town.
