One of the many reasons why we love living in Tallahassee is because of the way it is nestled perfectly amongst beautiful beaches, charming Southern towns, historic state parks, and so much more. Day trips are the perfect way to take a break from work, spend time with your friends and family, and explore something new-- all while making it home by dinner.
If you are in the mood for a quick getaway, here are a few of our favorite day trip destinations...
1. Thomasville, GA
Just past the Georgia state line lies the beautiful, comforting small town of Thomasville, Georgia. With delicious restaurants, fun boutiques, and miles of gorgeous plantations, Thomasville is by far a favorite when it comes to day trips. If you love cheese grits, you must dine at Jonah's Fish & Grits. After a delicious lunch, walk across the street to Sweet Cacao Chocolates for a homemade dessert. Stroll through downtown and visit Caroline Hill, Ally B, Kevin's, or Onward Reserve to freshen up your wardrobe. Don't forget to check out the beautiful Pebble Hill Plantation on your way back into town. Less than an hour north of Tallahassee, Thomasville is the perfect destination for a day trip.
Source: @visitthomasville, Facebook
2. Valdosta, GA
If you drive about an hour east from Thomasville, you will land in Valdosta, which is home to the Wild Adventures Theme Park. Wild Adventures is 170+ acres of rides, slides, and exotic animals and was voted #3 in most affordable amusement parks in the US by Travel + Leisure. If you time it right, you may even be able to catch a concert at the All-Star Amphitheater located inside the park.
Source: exploregeorgia.org
3. Wakulla Springs
Just 14 miles south of Tallahassee is the Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. Wakulla Springs is filled with historical aspects, from the Native Americans who once inhabited the area to the filmmakers of Tarzan’s Secret Treasure (1941) and Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954) who chose the springs as their place to film. If you plan to stay longer than a day, you can reserve a room at the 1930's Spanish style lodge and indulge in dinner at the Edward Ball Dining Room. Bring your swimsuit, nature book, and picnic and channel your bravest self to take a plunge off the 22-foot high dive on your trip to Wakulla Springs.
Source: tophotsprings.com, Paul Clark
4. Marianna, FL
An hour west of Tallahassee, in Jackson County, lies the Florida Caverns State Park where you can embark on an underground journey of the stunning caves. Guided cave tours are offered Thursday through Monday. Also while in Marianna, you must rent a tube, kayak, or canoe and float down the Chipola River.
Source: floridastateparks.org
5. Gulf Coast Beaches
Did we save the best for last? Possibly. Florida's Forgotten Coast is 200 miles of shoreline home to the gorgeous beaches of Alligator Point, St. George Island, Eastpoint and the quaint small towns of Apalachicola and Carrabelle. Drive a little further down the coast to see Mexico Beach, Port St. Joe, Cape San Blas, and Panama City. Bring your tanning oil, beach chair, and cooler and bask in the warm sun while listening to the waves crash on these beautiful white sand beaches.
Source: mexicobeach.com
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