photo by gusto

The state capital, Tallahassee (population 140,100) is more dependent on agriculture, science, and education than on tourism.

Located midway between Pensacola to the west and St Augustine to the east, the area has more of a feeling of the Deep South than a beach resort. Georgia is just 20 miles north of the city. The name “Tallahassee” is thought to be an Apalachee term for “old town” or “abandoned fields.” Tallahassee is the seat of Florida State University (since 1851). The university supports an extensive array of ongoing archeological sites and projects. Mission San Luis de Apalachee, set up in 1656, is the most impressive of these.

The New Capitol, a skyscraper, is a stark backdrop for the restored Old Capitol, built in 1845. Historic districts including Adams Street Commons and the Park Avenue and Calhoun Street areas are popular, as are many museums. The Black Archives Research Center and Museum is one of the world’s most extensive collections of African-American artifacts and history archives.

Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the Alfred B. Maclay State Gardens, Natural Bridge State Historic Site, San Marcos de Apalache State Historic Site, Edward Bell Wakulla Springs State Park, and the St Marks National Wildlife Refuge.

Quite near to Apalachicola National Forest is a 557,000-acre preserve with pine and hardwood forests, swamps, rivers, streams, springs, and sinkholes. Camping, canoeing, bird-watching, hunting, and hiking are popular in these parks. Dining and lodging options are available here, though they are more limited as you enter the wilderness areas.

Tallahassee Regional Airport offers limited service and it is serviced by trains. Cars are convenient for exploring the area, though a free Old Town Trolley is the best way to see historic downtown.