With summer just around the corner, it’s time to start making plans for fun trips to take with friends. For those of you who are spending the summer in Tallahassee, whether it be for classes or work, there are endless exciting activities just a short drive from the city. It may be quiet on campus, but there’s plenty to see and do around the area!
Beach Escapes
You haven’t experienced summer in Florida without a trip to the beach! Explore these nearby spots ideal for a day trip or weekend getaway:
Panama City Beach: Enjoy sugar sand beaches and a variety of fun attractions only 2 hours from Tallahassee. Panama City Beach is among the most popular beaches in the panhandle. There are even pet-friendly beaches, so you can bring your pup along with you! After soaking up the sun, head to Pier Park to shop and eat to your heart’s content. This city is also known for its vibrant nightlife. Explore clubs like Club La Vela and Splash Bar Florida when the sun goes down.
St.George Island: Uncover one of Florida’s best-kept secrets: a tranquil island located just under 2 hours from Tallahassee. Rated the Best Beach in America by Dr. Beach, you can escape the chaos and relax on quiet shores that feel like paradise. Island Adventures offers bike and golf cart rentals, so you can cruise in style. Be sure to check out the boutique shops and great local restaurants serving mouthwatering seafood.
Destin: Spend the day in Destin! The emerald-green waters found in this Gulf of Mexico town are great for cooling off in the summer heat, and the shores are perfect for a tanning sesh. Apart from the beach, enjoy a wide range of activities, from shopping at the Silver Sands Premium Outlets to taking in the scene at the Destin Harbor Boardwalk.
Refreshing Springs
They don’t call it the Sunshine State for nothing. Summers in Florida can get unbelievably hot, so take a day and cool off at one of these fresh-water springs:
Wakulla Springs State Park: Escape to this refreshing spring located just 20 minutes from Tallahassee. Take in the sunshine along the shores before diving into the sapphire-blue waters to beat the heat. For the adventurous at heart, challenge yourself with a cannonball off the diving platform! Explore the surrounding area on a guided boat tour where you can spot local wildlife such as manatees and alligators.
Ginnie Springs: Ginnie Springs, located about 2 hours from Tallahassee, is known for its crystal-clear waters and maintains a nice 72 degrees all year long. Dive into this aquatic paradise for a refreshing swim, or take on a scuba diving expedition to witness the incredible underwater landscapes. For a more laid-back experience, grab a tube and float down the scenic Santa Fe River.
Madison Blue Spring: Discover Madison Blue Spring, a popular destination in Florida and just an hour’s drive from Tallahassee! This hidden paradise offers an escape from the overwhelming summer heat. With its crystal-clear blue waters, it’s an ideal spot for cooling off and capturing great pics. Adventure with friends as you dive into the depths and uncover the underwater caves. Beyond the spring, explore the Withlacoochee River by canoe or kayak.
The swimming hole is temporarily closed due to high river levels, but keep an eye on their website for the latest updates on reopening.
Explore a New City
If downtown living is more your style, check out some of these quaint towns near Tallahassee:
Thomasville, Georgia: 45 minutes from Tallahassee lies a city known for its rich history and small-town charm. Explore the downtown area with its cozy boutiques, perfect for strolls and unique shops. Capture Instagrammable moments or enjoy a peaceful walk through the enchanting Thomasville Rose Garden, a secret spot in the heart of the town, that’s perfect for date night.
Havana, Florida: Known as Florida’s friendliest small town, and just 30 minutes from Tallahassee, Havana is full of specialty shops and local restaurants, such as Oscar’s, serving classics such as meatball subs, pizza, and Greek salads. Head over for a fun day date with someone special.
Outdoor Adventures
Branch out and discover the wonders of nature at these incredible state parks:
Florida Caverns State Park: Just an hour from Tallahassee, experience a once-in-a-lifetime tour of the depths of a cave that has evolved over millennia. The tour guides will lead you through narrow paths to witness unbelievable limestone formations – you might even spot a bat or two.
Providence Canyon State Park: Located just 2 and a half hours from Tallahassee, Providence Canyon State Park has a breathtaking landscape known as the “Little Grand Canyon.” So, if you’ve been dying to see the Grand Canyon, this is the next best thing! Located in Georgia, this park stands as one of the state’s most impressive sights. You can hike your way through the park to get the best views and pics from above. After exploring the park, stop by White Oak Pastures, a general store in the area, for something to eat. This is also a great pit stop if you’re on your way to Atlanta!
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Whether you’re craving relaxation or adventure, there’s something for everyone. Don’t let the stress of classes dampen your summer mood – enjoy the season and take a day trip to one of these exciting spots near Tallahassee!
If you’re also looking for a summer job, check out our blog on Part-Time Jobs in Tallahassee to view a list of businesses that are hiring in the area.
