Debbie Lightsey Nature Park

1317 Capital Cir SW
Tallahassee FL 32304

Trail runners, wildlife lovers, and casual walkers can find something in common at Debbie Lightsey Nature Park. The beauty of the wild is on full display at this premier nature park, with a diverse population of plants and animals, all living together in a unique and fascinating ecosystem. The park features 42 acres of wetlands and four interconnected ponds encompassed by 1.1 miles of gravel pathway and a little over 1,500 feet of boardwalk.

Along the park’s trail, visitors can observe wildlife such as turtles, alligators, and native birds. Two extensive boardwalk platforms overlook the wetlands and are attached to the main trail.


The park entrance is found on Capital Circle SW next to the entrance to Premier Townhomes on Baldwin Park Drive. The park has four covered pavilions with picnic tables, a children’s playground, and an illuminated parking lot. A water fountain is available near the trailhead by the playground. All boardwalks and multi-use paths are ADA accessible and ADA parking is available in the main lot.

Featured Uses: Running, jogging/walking, and bird watching. Leashed dogs are permitted.
Access: 1317 Capital Cir SW, Tallahassee, FL 32304
The park entrance is found on Capital Circle SW next to the entrance to Premier Townhomes on Baldwin Park Drive.
Park Amenities: A small playground, 4 picnic shelters, parking, drinking fountain, various multi-use trails, universally accessible boardwalk, wildlife viewing, and dog friendly.

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Debbie Lightsey Nature Park
Debbie Lightsey Nature Park

Trail runners, wildlife lovers, and casual walkers can find something in common at Debbie Lightsey Nature Park. The beauty of the wild is on full display at this premier nature park, with a diverse population of plants and animals, all living together in a unique and fascinating ecosystem. The park features 42 acres of wetlands and four interconnected ponds encompassed by 1.1 miles of gravel pathway and a little over 1,500 feet of boardwalk.

Along the park’s trail, visitors can observe wildlife such as turtles, alligators, and native birds. Two extensive boardwalk platforms overlook the wetlands and are attached to the main trail.


The park entrance is found on Capital Circle SW next to the entrance to Premier Townhomes on Baldwin Park Drive. The park has four covered pavilions with picnic tables, a children’s playground, and an illuminated parking lot. A water fountain is available near the trailhead by the playground. All boardwalks and multi-use paths are ADA accessible and ADA parking is available in the main lot.

Featured Uses: Running, jogging/walking, and bird watching. Leashed dogs are permitted.
Access: 1317 Capital Cir SW, Tallahassee, FL 32304
The park entrance is found on Capital Circle SW next to the entrance to Premier Townhomes on Baldwin Park Drive.
Park Amenities: A small playground, 4 picnic shelters, parking, drinking fountain, various multi-use trails, universally accessible boardwalk, wildlife viewing, and dog friendly.

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Looking for holiday magic? 🎅 Add this to your list!

Candy Cane Lane in Downtown Tallahassee is transformed into a holiday dream! If you haven't experienced this twinkling wonderland at McCarty Park yet, you now have a little more time to walk through the lights and enjoy the festive music.

❄️ Dec. 8–14 (6–9 PM)
✨ Dec. 12–13 (6–11 PM)
🍬 Dec. 15-18 and Dec. 21 from 6-9 PM
🍭 Dec. 19-20 from 6-11 PM

📍McCarty Park, Tallahassee, Florida
🎉 "Countdown at Cascades" is a FREE, family-friendly celebration at the Adderley Amphitheater on December 31st. Enjoy live music, local eats, and two stunning fireworks displays as we ring in 2026! 

🛻 Presented by Tallahassee Ford
🎶 Live performances by Eddie 9V and Lili Forbes & the Pharaohs of Funk
🎆 Fireworks at 7:45 PM & 9:45 PM

📍 The Adderley Amphitheater
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✨This is it. 3️⃣0️⃣ days out.
Join us for the 46th World Athletics Cross Country Championships on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Apalachee Regional Park to witness the excitement of five championship races as the world’s top athletes compete for gold. 🏅

👟 Lace up YOUR running shoes and take on the same course as the championship athletes, held immediately following the world championships award ceremony. Choose from a 2km or 4km course community ⚡ Fun Runs ⚡ and enjoy the unique opportunity to test your skills through Florida-inspired obstacles. Registration also includes spectator entry into the park.

🔗 ➡️ Register and learn more: https://bit.ly/WXCTLH26
Manatee season is here, and Wakulla Springs is putting on a show 🐋
Cooler weather brings these gentle giants into the crystal-clear spring, giving visitors an incredible front-row seat to one of North Florida’s most magical wildlife moments. Hop aboard the famous river boat tour for the best views of manatees, alligators, birds, and turtles as they spend the soaking up the sun on the water.

📍 Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park — just a short drive south of Tallahassee
📸 @kelsinthewild
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Market Days brought out the best of the season today. Festive finds, handmade gifts, and plenty of holiday spirit. 🎁✨
If you missed it (or want round two), the fun continues tomorrow (Sunday) at the North Florida Fairgrounds. Rain or shine, doors are open from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. See you there!

📍 Market Days at the North Florida Fairgrounds

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