Exploring Nature and History: A Memorable Visit to the Tallahassee Museum

Looking for things to do in Tallahassee, Florida? Add the Tallahassee Museum to your list! Tallahassee, the capital city of Florida, is home to an array of cultural and natural attractions. The Tallahassee Museum is one of the top-rated things to do with kids in Tallahassee, FL. This unique museum offers visitors a chance to explore Florida’s history, ecology, and wildlife in one setting. 

About the Tallahassee Museum

Located on 52 acres of lush forest, the Tallahassee Museum is a perfect destination for those who want to learn about the natural and cultural history of Florida and have fun at the same time. The museum features wildlife, nature trails, period exhibits, events, and a zipline course.

It is important to note that the Tallahassee Museum is a mostly outdoor attraction and not like a typical “museum.”

How to Get to the Tallahassee Museum

The Tallahassee Museum is located at 3945 Museum Drive Tallahassee, FL near the Tallahassee Airport, just off of Capital Circle Southwest.

Tallahassee Museum Tickets and Hours

The Tallahassee Museum is open year-round, but is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Museum hours are 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday and 11:00 am – 5:00 pm on Sundays. Free parking is available in the museum parking lot.

General admission ticket prices are $14.50 for adults, $13.50 for seniors (65+) and college students (with ID), $10 for children ages 4-15, and free for children 3 and under and members.

Tickets for the Tree to Tree Adventures on its own are $19 for the Treemendous Adventures (children 41” to 60” tall), $40 for the Canopy Crossing (at least 54” tall), and $50 for the Soaring Cypress (at least 54” tall). Members receive a bit of a discount on these prices.

Combo tickets that include the Tree to Tree Adventures are also available. Treemendous Adventures + Museum admission is $27, Canopy Crossing + Museum admission is $52, and Soaring Cypress + Museum admission is $62.

It’s important to note that Tree to Tree Adventures are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

What to See and Do at the Tallahassee Museum

There is so much to do at the Tallahassee Museum for all ages. Get ready for an adventure that’s all about exploring, having a blast, and maybe even learning a thing or two along the way!

Discovering Florida’s Past: Historical Exhibits

There are historic buildings and period-authentic settings that tell the story of Florida’s past, offering a glimpse into the lives of Native Americans, early settlers, and pioneers. Walk through the meticulously recreated homesteads and cabins to learn more about the history of the area.

You can also visit the Living History Farm. It is an 1880s farmstead that is home to a variety of farm animals, including cows, pigs, chickens, and horses. You can even help feed the animals and learn about their care during your visit.

Wild Encounters: Getting Up Close and Personal with Wildlife

The Tallahassee Museum is not just a place for history buffs—it’s a haven for nature enthusiasts as well. You’ll find quite a few animals that are native to this part of Florida as you make your way through the wildlife section on the elevated boardwalks of the Tallahassee Museum, such as panthers, red wolves, playful otters, and birds of prey.

The museum’s focus on conservation and education is evident in its well-maintained habitats. The animals you’ll see were either raised in captivity or have limited abilities as the result of injury and would not survive in the wild.

In addition to the native animals, you can also find a Guest Animal exhibit. During our most recent visit, we got to see a couple of playful dingoes.

Nature Trails and Scenic Walks 

Immerse yourself in the outdoors as you take a walk around the half-mile Nature Trail loop through the trees and along the lake. Keep your eye out for wildflowers, plants, birds, turtles, and more along the way. You visit the nearby McGowan Butterfly Garden as well.

Jim Gary’s 20th Century Dinosaurs

As you make your way around the Tallahassee Museum, you’ll find 21 pieces from Jim Gary’s Twentieth Century Dinosaurs. These dinosaurs are made of discarded automobile parts that got a second chance and were transformed into replicas of prehistoric creatures. Some of these pieces span as much as 43 feet in length and weigh up to 4,000 pounds. 

Eat at Trail Break Cafe

The Trail Break Cafe recently updated its menu and there are a variety of options to choose from. Take your pick from sandwiches and wraps, to salads, and burgers. They even have mimosas on the weekends! It’s the perfect spot to take a break during your visit and cool off.

Tallahassee Museum Tree to Tree Adventure

Adventure seekers will love the exhilarating Tree to Tree Adventure – an obstacle course in the trees. Elevated among the treetops, you’ll navigate suspended bridges, tight ropes, ziplines, and other obstacles surrounded by lush foliage and panoramic views of the museum’s natural landscape.

During our visit, we chose the Canopy Crossing Adventure which features 14 obstacles, 25 platforms, and 7 ziplines. There is also an option for kids that is lower to the ground as well as a longer course.

If you are afraid of heights, this might not be something you want to do. It will definitely test your skills and bravery!

You’ll go through a safety demonstration on the ground prior to climbing up onto the first platform. A guide will teach you how to use the equipment safely. The course is self-guided and a guide will be on the ground assisting if necessary. You’ll attach your safety lifeline to the belay system at the beginning of the course and you will not disconnect again until you reach the end of the course.

All three of the Tree to Tree Adventure courses require a different amount of time to complete. The Treemendous Adventure requires about 45 minutes to complete, Canopy Crossing requires 45 to 90 minutes depending on the time of day and how busy the course is, and Soaring Cypress requires a minimum of 90 minutes, but on busier days it could take up to 3 hours.

I would recommend doing the Tallahassee Museum zipline courses during cooler weather. It is physically challenging and could be too much in the heat for some.

Tips for Your Visit to the Tallahassee Museum

• Be comfortable! The Tallahassee Museum is mostly outdoors, so be sure to dress for the weather during your visit. Wear comfortable shoes that you’ll be able to easily walk in while exploring the 52 acres of the museum.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Portable fans are nice to have during the summer!
• Give yourself at least 3-4 hours to explore everything the Tallahassee Museum has to offer, especially if you plan to experience the Tree to Tree Adventures. You won’t want to miss out!
• When first getting to the museum, grab a map and ask about the activity times for the day, like animal encounters, so you don’t miss out on anything.

Visiting the Tallahassee Museum will blend history, nature, and immersive experiences. You’ll leave the museum with a deeper appreciation for Florida’s diverse heritage and the importance of preserving its natural wonders.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, or a nature lover, the Tallahassee Museum promises an enriching and memorable day that connects you with the past, present, and the beauty of the great outdoors. If you’re looking for things to do with kids in Tallahassee, then you’ll want to plan a visit to the Tallahassee Museum!