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Photo: Jason Burtz
Museum of Florida History
★4.8(194 reviews)$Museum
🕑 1.5-2.5 hours👶 Best for ages 5-14. Elementary and middle school students will appreciate the interactive elements and historical storytelling, while the hands-on activities keep younger children engaged. Preschoolers may enjoy some exhibits but might have limited attention spans for the more informational displays.🧡 Saved by 18 families
About
The Museum of Florida History offers an exciting journey through the Sunshine State's past with interactive exhibits that bring history to life for young learners. Kids can explore authentic artifacts, engage with hands-on displays about Native American culture, and discover fascinating stories from Florida's diverse heritage in this highly-rated downtown Tallahassee treasure.
Highlights
- ✓Interactive Native American cultural exhibits with authentic artifacts
- ✓Hands-on activities that let kids touch and explore historical items
- ✓Replica mastodon skeleton that captivates young dinosaur enthusiasts
- ✓Engaging displays about Spanish conquistadors and early Florida settlements
- ✓Rotating exhibits featuring different aspects of Florida's diverse history
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience, as school groups often arrive after 10am
- 2.Admission is FREE, making this an excellent budget-friendly activity for families
- 3.Stop by the Florida State Capitol building next door for panoramic views from the 22nd floor observation deck
- 4.The museum gift shop has excellent educational toys and books about Florida history at reasonable prices
- 5.Parking is available in nearby state garages; the Kleman Plaza Garage offers convenient access
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings between 9-10am offer the calmest experience before school groups arrive. Avoid Tuesday through Thursday late mornings when educational tours are most common. Summers and school breaks can be busier, so arriving right at opening is ideal.
What to Know
Admission is completely FREE for all visitors. Street and garage parking is available nearby for a fee. The museum doesn't have a café, so plan for nearby lunch options, and the facility is fully accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays). The museum is an ideal rainy-day activity during Florida's summer thunderstorm season. Check their website for special holiday programming and themed events throughout the year.
Nearby Eats
The Egg Café & Eatery (3 blocks away) serves breakfast and lunch with kid favorites like pancakes and grilled cheese. For casual dining, try Gaines Street Pies for kid-friendly pizzas in a relaxed atmosphere about a mile from the museum.
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