So you really need to find something to do that's free in Tallahassee, Florida. I feel your pain, I've been there. You want to go out and do something fun, but your wallet is telling you to stay home. Well, have no fear, you don't have to stay home in the dark eating Ramen noodles.
Let's start close to the colleges, so you may be able to walk from your apartment and save some gas. Take a visit to the Florida State Capitol. The 22nd floor of the Capitol building is an enclosed observation deck. Looking out from the observation deck, you are given a beautiful view of the rolling hills and beautiful trees that cover the city. In fact, it appears that the city is hidden in a sea of towering Pines and sprawling Live Oak trees. The east side of the observation deck is also an art gallery that changes every few months to showcase Florida artists.
Since we're still in the Downtown area, after you check out the Capitol Building, take a quick walk across the street to the Museum of Florida History. This museum lets you navigate through the history of Florida starting with the beginning, the very beginning. A Mastodon skeleton greets you as you begin your tour through the exhibits from Native Americans to Spanish explorers all the way to today. The museum also has changing exhibits that feature different aspects of Florida life. The Museum of Florida History is another great place that is free in Tallahassee.
Want to check out the Governor's Mansion? 700 North Adams Street , just north of the Downtown area is the Florida Governor's Mansion. The People's House of Florida has public tours in the spring and by appointment year round, free of charge. The tour lasts about 30 minutes and visits six state rooms and the outdoor Manatee Courtyard.
In between North Monroe street and Meridian road in the Midtown District, Lake Ella. Talking a walk around Lake Ella is a favorite spot that's free in Tallahassee. Every day, Lake Ella is busy with people walking their dogs, catching up with friends, having a picnic or just getting in some exercise. The Distance around Lake Ella is 0.6 miles. Three fountains in the Lake, a white Gazebo, and lots of turtles and ducks provide beautiful scenery as you enjoy the Florida sun. People enjoy bringing bread to feed the ducks that seem to never get full. There are signs posted to not feed the ducks, but the ducks can't read.
I've mentioned it before but here's a good place to talk about it again. Railroad Square Art Park is a renovated industrial park within walking distance to FSU and FAMU that features over 50 shops, studios and galleries of local artists. The First Friday Gallery Hop is when this place comes alive and you can meet the artists, hear live music, and even see a show courtesy of the Belly Dance Studio. The First Fridays are a great way to spend an evening even if you're not poor.
This is just a few of the things you can do for free in Tallahassee, Florida. I should also mention that the Tallahassee Parks and Rec is one of the best in the country. Parks throughout the city offer hiking, tennis courts, volleyball, racquetball, baseball and picnic facilities free of charge and activity pools and lap pools for a minimal fee. Hope this helps, have fun!