Sights and Sounds

When people talk about Florida, most of us picture Miami beaches, Orlando theme parks, and general sun, sand, and surf. What most people don't realize is that there is another Florida, and at the heart of it sits Tallahassee. Surprisingly, the city is closer to Atlanta than its Floridian sibling Miami, making the two cities as different as class action lawyers and social workers.

Tallahassee offers visitors a more Southern style Florida, with all the class, charm, and beauty of any Deep South destination. Visitors can take the Southern Mansions & More tour package to get a glimpse of some of the finest old homes in all of Florida. There's no food publicity needed for a place like Po' Boys Creole Cafe, where they offer a taste of true southern hospitality to friends and guests alike. Why have a typical wedding at any one of those old Burlington wedding reception locations when Tallahassee can give your nuptials a bit of Southern charm, and you can stay at one of the many historical homes open to guests.

For lovers of history, Tallahassee has 122 sites on the National Register of Historical Places, from houses, parks, and cemeteries to churches, schools, and government buildings. The Antique Car Museum offers gearheads a look into the past, while the Challenger Learning Center gives kids the chance to look ahead to the future, with a 5 story high IMAX theater to spur their imaginations. For those wanting to see history first hand, the Natural Bridge Battlefield State Historic Site puts on live re-enactments of one of Florida's most famous Civil War battles, giving visitors a chance to witness a moment in the American South's history. It may not be as relaxing as a spa package North Carolina, but is most certainly something the whole family can enjoy.

For that insatiable shopper, there is so much to see and buy in Tallahassee. Downtown offers a great selection of clothing shops, furniture stores, boutiques, art stores, and gift shops. Go treasure hunting in one of the many antique stores throughout the city, where you'll find anything and everything, from Civil War memorabilia to a cast iron keel. The Downtown Marketplace gives visitors the chance to experience all the culture and craft Tallahassee has to give, with live shows, music, and storytelling for the kids. Anyone looking for a little nightlife will have much to choose from, as Tallahassee comes to life like no other town when the sun goes down.

If you'd rather spend the afternoon in the bleachers watching sports, have no fear. From baseball to NCAA football, Tallahassee has got a taste of that All-American sporting spirit for you to experience. Not only that, but there are many other events to partake in, such as tennis, softball, and cycling.

Whatever your pleasure, Tallahassee's got it. If you're looking for a bit of that down to earth southern charm you've heard so much about and you're heading down Florida way, take the time to see historical Tallahassee. You won't regret a minute of it.