About Tallahassee
It's home to state government, really smart scientists and some killer bird-watching, but Tallahassee lacks something you'll find in other major Florida destinations—sand.
This charming city is all sloping hills, tree-lined streets and historic mansions. Head to Tallahassee to experience Southern cooking and hospitality and a different side of Florida, just 30 minutes north of the warm lapping waters of the Gulf of Mexico. In the song "Tallahassee," Bing Crosby sings that it's "the southland at its best." By trip's end, you'll agree.
Sunshine State
In most of Florida, the four seasons are sunny, sunnier, sunniest and scorching. But because of its position in the north of the state, Tallahassee has more clearly defined seasons. In winter, you may even need to forgo sandals; the average high temperatures are only around 65 in December and January. In the heat of summer, expect humidity and average highs in the low 90s. Summer is also the rainy season, and like in the rest of Florida, afternoon storms can come on quickly and end quickly. Spring and fall are both pleasantly warm, with average highs in the 70s and 80s.
See the Sights
See where Florida's laws are made without getting bogged down in legal minutiae by visiting the Florida Capitol on weekdays. Pick up a brochure and follow the self-guided tour laid out within. If you're a nature lover, seek out St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge; it's open all year. Head there to hike the trails and watch for birds. Fishing and hunting are also allowed, within regulations. Visit the Tallahassee Antique Car Museum to gain a new appreciation for your vehicle's air conditioning, and learn about the area's history at Mission San Luis de Apalachee.
Doing Business
As Tallahassee is Florida's capital, it's no surprise that the State of Florida is the city's biggest employer. It employs about four times more workers than the next largest employer. Coming in second is Florida State University, so pack some red-and-gold clothing to fit in with the FSU Seminoles. In general, education and research are some of Tallahassee's primary industries. FSU is home to the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, the world's largest magnet lab, where scientists work on cutting-edge developments in energy, semiconductors and other perplexing but important technology.
Tallahassee Transportation
The Tallahassee International Airport is smaller than you might expect, with only four carriers—American, Delta, US Airways and Silver—flying into the city. The airport is about 5 miles southwest of downtown. Hurricane Katrina's impact can still be seen here; Amtrak used to serve the city, but train travel was suspended after the storm and never reinstated. You can still ride into town on a Greyhound bus. The best way to get around Tallahassee is by car or bus.
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