There’s something special about exploring a Florida city for the very first time, especially when you’ve lived in the state for years.
Tallahassee was always one of those places that I was curious to visit, and this summer, it happened. Joined by my best friend Sharma, we arrived with open minds and curious hearts. From the moment we stepped onto the charming streets of Florida’s capital, I felt the spark of a new kind of Southern charm: artsy, historic, modern, and refreshingly full of surprises.
After a day of exploring we returned to our home for the weekend, Hotel Indigo Tallahassee Collegetown, and found ourselves in the perfect setting for a sunset toast. The hotel bar’s French 75, served during its elegant happy hour, was citrusy, bubbly, and everything you want in a celebratory cocktail. We enjoyed one the first day, and even the second day, and recommend that fans of the cocktail do the same.
With a view of the buzzing college town, it felt like the perfect Tallahassee welcome—a cozy hotel that exudes a modern feel. The large and comfortable rooms, the art in the lobby, as well as the knowledgeable and caring staff that made sure to check in on us, were all highlights of our stay.
Bookish Bliss: Cats, Cafés & Curated Reads
Any trip that includes a bookstore visit is a win in my world, and Tallahassee gave me two gems to fall in love with.
At Midtown Reader, the sunlit upstairs café invited me to curl up with a fresh read and a warm drink. The staff’s passion for books matched the store’s thoughtful selections, and I felt right at home among the shelves. But then came Fat Cat Books, and I was completely charmed.
Imagine rows of secondhand books, warm lighting, and fluffy rescue cats sprawled out in reading nooks. I browsed while a curious gray tabby followed me, and I left with a stack of used books and a full heart. If book therapy exists, I found it here.
Railroad Square: Retro Games, Mural Strolls & Treasure Hunting
Our visit to Railroad Square Art District was like stepping into an open-air, art-filled dream. The vibrant murals told stories with every brushstroke, and the community buzz was electric. Inside one of the shops, I rediscovered my love of vintage pinball machines and spent more time than I’d care to admit flipping silver balls through neon-lit games from the past.
This creative district is also a thrifter’s paradise. I walked out of one shop with two statement jackets, one purple with gold detailing, and one lacy and sparkly red to wear for Sharma and I’s upcoming Lady Gaga concert. I also couldn’t resist a small Glinda the Good Witch vintage Madame Alexander doll and, in my proudest find, a 1999 Britney Spears tour shirt. The nostalgia? Real. The joy? Off the charts.
Secret Sips and Whiskey Nights
Tallahassee has a cocktail culture that blends history with flair.
Bar 1903, tucked inside a historic library, was like walking into a storybook of mixology. Between the dim lighting, shelves of old books, and inventive drinks, we were completely transported. I went bold with a spicy gin and tonic that somehow matched my mood perfectly, which was zesty, strong, and full of spark.
We later headed to Warhorse Whiskey Bar, where Japanese whiskey warmed us from the inside out. Right next door, connecting to Warhorse, Gaines Street Pies delivered delicious slices that perfectly paired with the rich, smoky pours. It was the kind of place and pizza that we were craving—unpretentious, flavorful, and full of character.
We also made a stop at Ology Brewing Co., where we cooled down with an Italian lager surrounded by good vibes and locals who welcomed us like regulars.
Southern Style, Boutique Charm
At Hearth & Soul, shopping wasn’t just shopping, it was a soulful, curated experience that felt like walking through a beautifully designed dream home.
Every corner invited discovery: a bookshelf full of inspiring titles, a luxe bar setup with gifts for any host, and racks of bold fashion pieces that immediately caught our eyes. Sharma and I were treated like old friends from the moment we walked in.
The staff offered us a full boutique tour and welcomed us with glasses of chilled prosecco and crisp chardonnay, making us feel like VIP guests rather than just visitors. We sipped as we browsed, laughed, and eventually left with some seriously fabulous jewelry—unique pieces that felt both bold and timeless, the kind that instantly elevate any outfit and memory.
This wasn’t just retail therapy. The shop feels like a community of its own, and the staff really thrives on connecting with their visitors. Hearth & Soul truly lives up to its name and gave us one of our most memorable moments in the city.
Dining with Heart at Table 23
On one of our nights, we gathered at Table 23, a warm, Southern restaurant tucked among tall trees and glowing porch lights. The space was cozy, welcoming, and steeped in tradition. The food, such as the amazing fried green tomatoes, and connection with the staff of the restaurant and my friends reminded me why I love what I do—not just to write about destinations, but to feel them and really explore some places that I had no idea existed in the city.
Tallahassee surprised me in many ways. This is not just a college town, and while the universities are the city’s heartbeat, there is so much more to see. And I was happy to have had to chance to visit.
To Explore More:
