Museum of Florida History
1 / 10

Museum of Florida History

4.8
·193 reviews·Tallahassee, United States

Explore 12,000 years of Florida's history through captivating exhibits, from native cultures to treasure fleets. Free admission!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Museum of Florida History

Museum of Florida History

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore 12,000 years of Florida's history through captivating exhibits, from native cultures to treasure fleets. Free admission!

4.8
(193 reviews)

"Great little museum. Free museum but welcomes donations and is deceptively packed with items throughout Florida history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Free Parking & Admission

Enjoy free entry and validated parking in the garage next door. Donations are appreciated!

💧 No Drinks Allowed Inside

Remember to finish your water or drinks before entering; they must be left at the desk.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

1715 Treasure Fleet Exhibit

1715 Treasure Fleet Exhibit

Specific exhibit area

Discover artifacts from the Spanish treasure fleet that sank off Florida's coast. A must-see for history buffs!

Life-Size Exhibits

Life-Size Exhibits

Throughout the museum

Immerse yourself in Florida's history with impressive, life-size displays that bring the past to life.

Florida Tourism Memorabilia

Florida Tourism Memorabilia

Tourism display area

Relive the golden age of Florida tourism with a fascinating collection of memorabilia from past attractions.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Free Admission & Parking

Enjoy a free visit to the Museum of Florida History! Parking in the adjacent garage is also validated with a token from the museum, making it an affordable outing. Donations are welcomed and appreciated to support the exhibits.

Plan Your Visit Time

While free, the museum offers a wealth of information spanning 12,000 years of Florida's past. Give yourself ample time to explore the life-size exhibits and artifacts; it's more than can be seen in a quick stop.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons during heat
Why
Cool escape from Florida sun
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

FREE museum in Florida! The Florida Museum of Natural History has free admission for all. While it’s not a particularly large museum there is tons to do and you can spend a few hours here Pro tip: head to the art museum next door when you’re done! They have a room where kids can play, paint, and draw 📍Florida Museum of Natural History 3215 Hull Rd, Gainesville, FL - Florida life, Florida, ...
casabolanos
112 likes • 4.5K views

🚗 Free Parking & Admission

Enjoy free entry and validated parking in the garage next door. Donations are appreciated! Reddit

💧 No Drinks Allowed Inside

Remember to finish your water or drinks before entering; they must be left at the desk. Reddit

📍Must-Visit Museums in Florida Looking for a cultural escape? These museums are perfect for a day of history, art, and stunning architecture! 1️⃣ Henry B. Plant Museum – Step into the Gilded Age at this former luxury hotel, showcasing the lavish lifestyle of the late 1800s. 📍401 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606 2️⃣ Flagler Museum – Explore the grand estate of Henry Flagler, a railroad pioneer wh...
miamikidsmagazine
1.9K likes • 43K views
reddit.com

Tips or suggestions on places to visit when I'm in Tallahassee

🕵️ Scavenger Hunts for Kids

Engage younger visitors with fun scavenger hunts designed to make history interactive. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

This museum is packed with history; give yourself plenty of time to see it all. Reddit

reddit.com

visiting a friend this week - any must sees?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Free Parking & Admission

Enjoy free entry and validated parking in the garage next door. Donations are appreciated! Reddit

💧 No Drinks Allowed Inside

Remember to finish your water or drinks before entering; they must be left at the desk. Reddit

🕵️ Scavenger Hunts for Kids

Engage younger visitors with fun scavenger hunts designed to make history interactive. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

This museum is packed with history; give yourself plenty of time to see it all. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(193 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Museum of Florida History for its free admission and validated parking, making it an accessible and budget-friendly attraction. The museum offers a comprehensive overview of Florida's past with engaging life-size exhibits and unique artifacts, including treasures from the 1715 fleet. While some note construction or temporary closures, the overall experience is highly recommended for all ages.

"Great little museum. We went during construction so the route was a little wonky but there were some very inventive displays. Free museum but welcomes donations and is deceptively packed with items throughout Florida history.
Well worth the visit for visitors of all ages. Pay close attention to the tourism display for some awesome memorabilia from tourist attractions of the Sunshine State's past."

Nick Unthank

"Given that this place is free to visit AND park in the garage next door (with token from museum), I can’t complain. The kiddos (all under 7) enjoyed doing the scavenger hunt, but probably didn’t pick up much of the history. There are lots of random things to see in here. This is a great spot to go during the heat of the day to stay cool. Drinks, even WATER, is not allowed inside, so chug before you enter. We were forced to leave our bottles at the desk and pick them up on the way out."

Jeremy Glover

"Our whole family had a wonderful time at this museum. There was so much much information and the exhibitions were top notch. The museum is large but not too large. It's probably more than what can be properly seen in a Day but you can see enough to truly enjoy the experience!"

Aida

What People Like

Free admission and parking
Engaging life-size exhibits
Comprehensive historical overview

What People Dislike

Occasional construction
No drinks allowed inside

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Museum of Florida History is located in Tallahassee, FL. Visitors can typically drive and park in the adjacent garage, which is validated by the museum. Public transportation options may also be available within Tallahassee.

Yes, parking is available in the garage next to the museum. You can get a token from the museum for validated parking, making it free for visitors. Reddit

While specific accessibility details are best confirmed directly with the museum, most modern museums strive to be accessible. The reviews suggest it's a large space, implying it's designed for easy navigation.

Tallahassee is accessible by car, and the city has an airport (Tallahassee International Airport - TLH) for those flying in. Once in Tallahassee, driving or using local transport is recommended.

The museum is located near the Historic Capitol Building, offering a chance to explore more of Tallahassee's historical sites. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Museum of Florida History is free! Donations are welcomed and help support the museum's exhibits and operations. Reddit

As admission is free, advance booking is generally not required. However, for group visits or special events, it's always a good idea to check the museum's official website or contact them directly.

Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official Museum of Florida History website for the most up-to-date information on operating days and times. Some reviews mention temporary closures for plaza renovations. Reddit

No, drinks, including water, are not allowed inside the museum. Visitors are asked to finish them before entering and can leave bottles at the desk to pick up on the way out. Reddit

Yes, the museum is considered suitable for all ages. They offer scavenger hunts for children and have exhibits that appeal to a wide range of interests. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Highlights include the 1715 Treasure Fleet exhibit, impressive life-size displays depicting Florida's history from prehistoric times to the present, and a fascinating collection of tourism memorabilia. Reddit

To truly appreciate the extensive history and detailed exhibits, it's recommended to allocate a significant amount of time. Many visitors suggest giving yourself plenty of time to tour the excellent museum. Reddit

Yes, children can enjoy scavenger hunts, making the historical content more engaging and interactive for them. Reddit

The museum features a wide array of artifacts, including items related to native cultures, colonization, and significant historical periods like the 1715 Treasure Fleet. Reddit

Crowd levels can vary. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, while afternoons, especially during hot weather, can see more visitors seeking a cool indoor activity. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed in museums. However, it's always best to check for any specific signage or ask museum staff about their photography policy, especially regarding flash usage.

The life-size exhibits and the artifacts from the 1715 Treasure Fleet are visually striking and make for great photo opportunities. The tourism memorabilia display also offers unique, nostalgic shots.

Flash photography is often restricted in museums to protect delicate artifacts. Be mindful of any 'no photography' signs in specific exhibit areas.

A camera with good low-light performance and a versatile lens is ideal. Many visitors use their smartphones, which are convenient for capturing memories.

You can find many visitor-shared photos on social media platforms like Instagram by searching relevant hashtags, or on travel blogs and review sites. Google Images searches using specific exhibit names can also yield results.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Museum of Florida History is a fantastic, free option for families. Kids can engage with history through scavenger hunts, making learning fun and interactive. The life-size exhibits and diverse artifacts are captivating for younger minds, offering a cool escape from the Florida heat. Remember to finish all drinks before entering, as they are not permitted inside. Reddit

With a vast collection spanning 12,000 years, there's plenty to keep children entertained and educated. The museum is large enough to explore without feeling cramped, and the variety of displays ensures something for every child's interest. It's a great way to introduce them to the rich history of Florida in an accessible and enjoyable manner. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This museum is a dream for budget travelers, offering completely free admission. To make your visit even more economical, the museum provides validated parking in the adjacent garage, eliminating that common travel expense. While donations are encouraged, they are not mandatory, allowing you to experience a significant cultural attraction without spending a dime. Reddit

It's an ideal destination for a cost-effective day out, especially when combined with other free activities in Tallahassee. The wealth of historical information and engaging exhibits provides excellent value, proving that enriching experiences don't always come with a high price tag. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Florida's Rich History

The Museum of Florida History offers a comprehensive journey through the state's past, beginning 12,000 years ago. It meticulously covers the evolution of Florida, from its earliest native inhabitants and the era of colonization to its development as a modern state. The museum's strength lies in its extensive collection of artifacts and life-size exhibits that vividly illustrate historical periods and events. Visitors can expect to see displays detailing everything from prehistoric flora and fauna to the significant impact of Spanish exploration and settlement. Reddit

One of the most compelling aspects highlighted by visitors is the 1715 Treasure Fleet exhibit, showcasing recovered treasures from shipwrecks off the Florida coast. This exhibit provides a tangible connection to a dramatic chapter in Florida's maritime history. Beyond specific historical events, the museum also delves into the cultural and economic development of the state, including its rise as a popular tourist destination. The tourism display is particularly noteworthy, featuring nostalgic memorabilia that evokes the charm of Florida's past vacation spots. Reddit

For families, the museum offers interactive elements like scavenger hunts, making the learning experience enjoyable for younger visitors. The overall size of the museum is described as large but manageable, allowing for a thorough exploration without feeling overwhelming. It's a fantastic way to gain a historical overview of the Sunshine State, making it a valuable stop for anyone interested in understanding Florida's unique heritage. Reddit

Visitor Experience and Practical Tips

The Museum of Florida History is consistently praised for being a free admission attraction, a significant draw for budget-conscious travelers. This affordability extends to parking, which is validated in the adjacent garage, further enhancing its appeal. While the museum is free, visitors are encouraged to make donations to support its continued operation and the preservation of its collections. Reddit

Practical advice from visitors emphasizes the importance of planning your visit time. The museum is packed with information and exhibits, and rushing through it can diminish the experience. Many recommend allocating a good portion of your day to fully appreciate the displays. It's also crucial to note the no-drinks policy inside the museum; visitors must finish all beverages before entering, though they can be stored at the front desk. Reddit

Despite occasional mentions of construction or temporary closures affecting access, the overall sentiment from reviews is overwhelmingly positive. The museum is seen as a great spot to visit during the heat of the day, offering a cool and educational respite. The inclusion of activities like scavenger hunts ensures that it remains engaging for all ages, making it a well-rounded destination for history enthusiasts and families alike. Reddit

You may also like