For all the nature lovers in Tallahassee, Alfred B. Maclay Garden State Park might be your next beautiful getaway. This hidden gem, tucked away off Thomasville Road on the northeast section of the city, consists of 1,184 acres of land and is home to a variety of beautiful plants.
Upon entering the state park there is a fee depending on how many people are entering the park and their form of transportation. For pedestrians, bicyclists, groups and cars with more than eight people, the entrance fee is $2 per person. For one person driving alone the entrance fee is $4, and for two to eight people in one car the entrance fee is $6 per vehicle.
After paying the fee and driving into the park, the first sign points to the recreation area. The recreation section of the park has a beautiful lake with kayaks, canoes, a playground, tables and benches, grills, and a restroom facility. There is also a dock so that visitors can enjoy fishing or simply swimming in the water.
Throughout different sections of the park there are walking trails that provide nice scenery and there are also horseback riding trails.
Further into the park is the historic gardens which are filled with a variety of butterflies, plants, flowers and every now a then a few rabbits. The Maclay House Museum is also located inside the gardens. The museum is currently closed for tours, but it is open from January through April from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the week. Also, depending on when you visit, different plants bloom each month around the garden.
The park opens every day at 8 a.m. and closes at sunset and the Maclay House Museum is open from January through April from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. through the week.
During the months from January to April there is an entrance fee of $6 for adults to get in the gardens and $3 for children ages 2 to 12.
Alfred B. Maclay’s Garden is a breath of relaxing fresh air, especially for people who like to destress while in nature.