Past & Present of Tallahassee – 4 Days

Today, you’ll begin your journey to Tallahassee, Florida and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Upon arrival in Tallahassee, you will meet your Tour Manager and start your adventure.

To start, you’ll visit the Historic Capitol which has symbolized the Florida state government since 1845. Restored to its 1902 appearance, the Historic Capitol stands as an icon at the center of Florida’s Capitol complex; the modern-day nerve center of Sunshine State government. Under the stained-glass dome, political history and tradition come alive in the exhibits.

You’ll then visit Florida’s new Capitol building where you’ll participate in a mock session in either the House or Senate chambers.

Next, you’ll take a self guided tour of the Museum of Florida History which opened in 1977. The Museum of Florida History collects, preserves, exhibits, and interprets evidence of past and present cultures in Florida, and promotes knowledge and appreciation of this heritage.

After lunch, you’ll visit the Florida Supreme Court. If time permits and lectures are available, you may see a lecture in the courtroom and learn about the judicial branch at the State level.

To end the day, you’ll visit Florida State University and take a self guided tour.

This morning, you’ll take a guided tour of the John G. Riley House and Museum, a historical and cultural gem that sits at the bottom of a hill in downtown Tallahassee. The Riley historic home represents the thriving black neighborhood, known as Smokey Hollow, that once existed in what is just east of downtown Tallahassee. It is especially significant when compared to other such historical sites in that it is the last vestige we have of the accomplishments of an entire group of people, the black middle class, which emerged in the latter part of the nineteenth century.

Set amidst 52 acres of breathtaking Florida flora and fauna, the Tallahassee Museum has served as an iconic Tallahassee landmark for more than 50 years. Ranked as one of Florida’s top museums, the Museum’s living exhibits of native Florida wildlife, nature trails and native gardens are renowned by visitors of all ages. The Museum encourages guests to discover and learn about North Florida’s natural environment, rich history and diverse cultural communities.

You’ll take a two hour guided tour of Mission San Luis which transports you back to 1703. Hear the ring of the blacksmith’s hammer, smell traditional foods being cooked over an open fire, and walk the plaza where the Apalachees played their traditional ball games. Experience the largest historic-period Indian building found in the Southeast.

Next, you’ll visit the Challenger Learning Center where you’ll have an opportunity to trek through the Amazon rainforest, explore the universe or walk with dinosaurs during an IMAX 3D experience. Then, you’ll view the solar system, the night sky and space beyond the universe during the Downtown Digital Dome Theatre & Planetarium experience.

You’ll have dinner.

Today, your Tallahassee trip comes to a close as you depart for your trip back home.