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Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
3540 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32309, United States
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He
Review №1

Great find driving through Tallahassee. There is a small entrance fee. The visitor center and the Maclay house is currently closed due to COVID. The gardens are beautiful with a nice pond and lots of plant life. Its well maintained, theres plenty of shade, and several places to sit and relax. Dogs are not allowed in the gardens but are allowed throughout the rest of park.

Pa
Review №2

Beautiful gardens and historic area. Also some great trails that dont get as much attention as they should. If you havent hiked one of the Maclay trails, I recommend you give them a try.

Ma
Review №3

Beautiful and majestic. Great place to be married at. Great place to go and have a picnic with a loved one or a friend. They offer moonlight kayak/canoe rides and it is a very cool experience to walk though the plants and beautiful scenery there! A must see!

Ny
Review №4

Came here for the first time at the height of the shut downs so some features were closed. But it was nice to be outdoors in a beautiful and serene environment. When I was there, it look like they had set up for a wedding and many have photo shoots done here. We just enjoyed strolling and taking in the scenery.

bu
Review №5

Great public space with picnic tables, grills, lake, boat ramp, gardens, and bathrooms.

Ma
Review №6

The gardens were peaceful and beautiful. Even on a very hot day the tree canopy kept the trail very cool.

V
Review №7

I took some post wedding photos there. The scenery and sidewalks were great!

Gw
Review №8

Magnificent magnolia and oak trees. Super well-kept. Wished the home was open (but was glad that the bathroom was!). It was wonderful to walk around by ourselves in perfect weather. Will have to re-read Gloria Jahods The Other Florida comments on this gem of a park.

An
Review №9

Beautiful park with lots of places to picnic. Big open field to play frisbee and the like. Miles of trails to explore.

St
Review №10

Beautiful garden. We only visited Tallahasse for the day, so spent about an hour here. Fantastic trails, easy to walk if you are moderately fit. If you are not, the have sitting areas on the main brick walkway. Some flowers were at the end of their season, but it was still beautiful. I would have liked trails/pathways to various areas more clearly marked.If you are fair, wear sunscreen/hat. If it is summer, definitely wear a hat. While some areas are naturally shady, others are not (also naturally).

Pa
Review №11

This is a beautiful park! The botanical gardens are absolutely stunning and the hiking trails are fun fun! We discover something different every time we go!

Wo
Review №12

It is a beautiful State Park. There is swimming in season boating, lovely trails in the gardens with lots of pretty flowers and trees. There was a concert going on by the garden so parking was full, but we were able to park up by the lake and they had a tram that we could take down to the Garden so we didnt have to walk all that way. Very well maintained and friendly staff.

pe
Review №13

A nice place to sit and relax with the family, taking pictures in the garden and cayaking in the lake

Ge
Review №14

Beautiful views throughout the entire park. The blooming flowers and trees, the Spanish moss and the statues provide endless photograph opportunities. Stumbled upon this place this time but will plan to be back to take even more pictures and also experience the recreational area.

Le
Review №15

The old house is gorgeous. The gardens were absolutely beautiful. Nice place for a walk.

ke
Review №16

A beautiful botanical garden with large oak trees in Spanish moss hanging from the branches. You definitely get a majestic feel when youre out here

De
Review №17

I love to come back and see what they did to the place.

An
Review №18

The gardens looked wonderful! We ended up going during the low season, but still had a good time.

Jo
Review №19

A beautiful floral park with walking paths and a maintained hunting lodge purchased in the 1930s. All original furnishings show the post revival from Southern plantation to Northern owned retreat. Mr. Maclay used his financial strength from the New York ice business to buy and expand this hunting grounds to a beautiful flower park. Now run by the state of Florida with a very low entrance fee to see the well maintained legacy he started.

Ni
Review №20

A beautiful park to spend the day taking in all the beautiful scenery. Enjoy spending time here.

Je
Review №21

It was so small but the old original homes were well kept. Wasnt much to it though

Pa
Review №22

Last time I came was a much better experience. Its best to go between January and April when most of the plants are in bloom. It was still nice to walk and show to family and friends, but it was not my best experience here.

Je
Review №23

Spent a wonderful afternoon kayaking on the beautiful lake.

Sh
Review №24

We went in mid March. It was beautiful. I highly recommend.

Ja
Review №25

This is such a gorgeous garden state park. We have been here several times when in Tallahassee and thoroughly enjoy it every time. It is pretty every season of the year. We enjoy the plants and flowers and seeing birds, reptiles, snakes and butterflies.

De
Review №26

I loved it we didnt go during the time when everything was blooming but it was still beautiful and relaxing we are definitely going to go back next year when everything is in bloom and so we can tour the cabin.

gi
Review №27

Nice place for an afternoon walk. I would suggest visiting when the azaleas are blooming in early spring, otherwise there arent a lot of plants that bloom

Sa
Review №28

So peaceful and serene. I have yet to do the trails there.

Ci
Review №29

Great place to celebrate birthdays especially since it’s outside. So everyone can b socially distant.

Ma
Review №30

Fantastic park! The trails are well maintained and the gardens are lovely. I’ve heard that swimming here is fun in the summer and there’s kayaking on the lake too.

Me
Review №31

Beautifully maintained gardens. Would be really nice to see when everything is in bloom!

Di
Review №32

Beautiful park! The Gardeners Cottage is a great place to hold an event.

Pa
Review №33

Great state park within Tallahassee. There is a lot to do. Good place to paddle board if you dont want to go to far. There is an entrance fee but its minimal.

Sh
Review №34

Good if you need to clear your head, refresh, and renew your energy.

Ja
Review №35

I highly recommend this place if youre looking to visit Tallahassee. The scenery is beautiful and is in bloom mainly from January to April, although some of the plants bloom year round. There is a lot more to see than I was expecting. Outside of the garden area is the rest of the park that includes an area to launch boats onto the lake, they even have rentals if you dont bring your own, and quite a few trails to go and explore.

Jo
Review №36

Didn’t get to spend too much time because of a major lightning storm coming through. But the little bit we got to see was wonderful. Be aware that there is an entry fee.

AB
Review №37

Absolutely beautiful Oasis in Tallahassee. Did the mountain bike trail and walked through the garden after. The bike trail was considerably moderate to advanced, but it was fun. The gardens were not in bloom at this time of the year, but it was still a great walk around the property. The staff was super nice, polite and ready to share information. Definitely a must visit especially when the garden is in bloom.

Pr
Review №38

A beautiful place for a wedding. Near the pond. Our event was three years ago but it would not let me put in the correct date. Employees were friendly.

Ve
Review №39

A beautiful and relaxing place to wander either alone or with someone. I was lucky to witness a proposal by the reflection pond! Well maintained, with swimming, fishing, boating, canoeing, hiking and more outdoorsy stuff. The gardens are lovely and inspiring to all creative types (writing, photography, sketching). Definitely going back between Jan & April for the blooming season!

An
Review №40

A beautiful place to walk or just sit and relax.

Ma
Review №41

The park is so beautiful, especially the gardens area. Great place to have a picnic or go on a nature walk. We love coming here.

Da
Review №42

Beautiful place. Well maintained, abundant native Florida Flora. Very much worth the visit.

jo
Review №43

A fabulous destination for the pursuit of beauty and peace in an outdoor setting. Choose a trail and walk, run, or bike your cares away. So close to town yet it feels so far away. Bonus tip - go early for a beautiful morning walk.

br
Review №44

During January to March the gardens at the state park are in bloom . It smells beautiful and looks amazing. Walking paths make it a nice experience.

Ha
Review №45

Wonderful, clean garden and there I should have had a lot

Ta
Review №46

Breathtaking Garden, great and caring staff. This state park should be on your list of places to visit. Ranger Blair goes above and beyond for the job. Also be sure to check out the small classes that they hold! We just attended a painting class (only once a year!) and came home with beautiful work, we had a great time and we are so excited for our next class!

Ji
Review №47

I think timing is pretty important, I went there twice, once in March(last year) once in February and the second time (Feb 16th) was much more impressive because the Magnolias were blooming and its super pretty!

Ed
Review №48

I enjoy visiting the garden and taking a walk with my family. I always feel like Im somewhere far away from Tallahassee. The surrounding beauty transports me to another place and time. I visit as often as possible.

na
Review №49

Possibly the best park in Tally, and there are several good ones. Beautiful. The kids loved it. Will be back.

La
Review №50

This is a lovely and tranqil state park, with beautifully landscaped paths for walking, and a lake for rowing, swimming, fishing, and picnicking. There are also horse and hiking trails and a small museum in the Maclay house. The peak garden bloom time is January to late March. The gardens and park have separate hours and entry fees.

Ro
Review №51

Nice park not far away from the center of the city. You can spend a couple of hours here, have a picnic, plan a wedding or if you have a boat go out on the lake. Seems you can rent a kayak or sail boat there but I elected to simply go for a stroll, see the long weeping willow trees and relax on the garden.

Er
Review №52

Well maintained and beautiful, even on a chilly day! Great picture opportunities everywhere and lots of room to explore with nice paths. Helpful guide in the house with answers to all our questions, and lots of hidden little bits of fascination all around

An
Review №53

Absolutely beautiful. We went in the morning when there werent a lot of visitors and was a lovely walk.

Te
Review №54

Its a beautiful park with lovely landscape,trails and views.....lots of beautiful flowers and places to relax and appreciate wild life and nature. There is also a picnic area and boat launch area

Je
Review №55

Its very convenient to where I can visit often. The staff are very helpful and knowledgeable. Cant wait for the autumn leaves to change so I can take a leisurely hike.

He
Review №56

Perhaps the gardens are prettier during another time of year when there are more flowers blooming, because my family and I were honestly underwhelmed given this park has a near 5-star rating. That, and it is $6 per vehicle for entrance. There are a couple of nicely manicured areas along with some impressively large trees, but the rest was okay. I think it would be more worth it if you planned on having a picnic, or going kayaking while here.

Ro
Review №57

Beautiful garden to walk around.

Mo
Review №58

As a Tallahassee florist, springtime in Tallahassee at Maclay Gardens is my absolute favorite. There are so many beautiful flowering trees among the property that make it the perfect backdrop for wedding photos and bridal portraits. We love working at Maclay Gardens for all of its beautiful details!

Ji
Review №59

Beautiful park, especially in the spring and summer. I highly recommend this park.

Mi
Review №60

A great place with beautoful gardens, historic insights, and wounderful trails to hike

Ed
Review №61

Its hard to beat a good State Park. Nice scenery and a good price.

AD
Review №62

I loved this place! Its beautifully designed and maintained. There is a diverse collection of plants.

el
Review №63

Nice place for a relaxing stroll.

He
Review №64

This park is beautiful! We were only there to walk around the gardens, but definitely want to go back to kayake and home on trails that they have there! Lots to do!

K
Review №65

Nice state park featuring a a beautiful flower garden in the center.

Pr
Review №66

Love this place... very well maintained... amazing place to plan a quick picnic with family.

Sh
Review №67

Absolutely Beautiful!The gardens were blooming and it was a nice January day to be out exploring Tallahassee! The $6 entry fee was worth it as the gardens are well maintained and the staff helpful and friendly.

Su
Review №68

Nice spot for spending family time or you like weeding photography , this place for you. Entrance fee is 6$ per vehicle.

Ch
Review №69

I love this place, personally and professionally. Photographing here is a dream.

Ka
Review №70

Beautiful all year round. Excellent place to take photos

Je
Review №71

If you love nature or gardens this is hidden gem in Tallahassee...beautiful trails throughout

Am
Review №72

Nice place to go fishing and let the kids play in the water. Very clean and clear. Had a very nice playground and picnic area.

J
Review №73

Great little place when you want to stay near home.

Re
Review №74

The lake area is my favorite shady picnic spot in Tallahassee. Also an awesome place to rent a kayak! Tons of trails and manicured gardens, really something for everybody.

Li
Review №75

Beautiful gardens... Love the Florida Moss...

La
Review №76

Beautiful garden. Great photo location.

B.
Review №77

Beautiful park and a perfect spot for a picnic

Ro
Review №78

We were at the off season (May - November) and did not see many flowers, but we did see interesting foliage and the smaller fauna. We go close to squirrels, birds, a gecko and a salamander. They also had no maps, no bulletin board map and the downloaded map had little derail.

Jo
Review №79

Beautiful garden! Must visit!

Ad
Review №80

Awesome park and garden!

Ra
Review №81

Beautiful park. Especially during spring time.

Ma
Review №82

I really love this place its very beautiful

Al
Review №83

At the park entrance the Ranger can give you good information. There is an extra fee to visit the gardens during the blooming season. Pets not allowed in the gardens. But the park is much bigger than just the garden area.The first turn off leads the the lake, the second area you come to is the parking for the gardens, and you can continue past the parking area and down a dirt road to the back area of the park where dogs are allowed.We strolled the gardens and met the very helpful volunteer at the house who can give you lots of historical info. Everything was left exactly as the family had it. We missed peak bloom by just a week or two. Visited in late march 2017. Its still a great garden to visit, with lots of garden rooms lots of people were there taking photos for engagements & sororities. The previous day a triathlon had been held at the park.We got our bikes and then rode from the garden parking area to the 4 mile loop around lake Overstreet. There are also other trails you can take for a longer ride if you have a mountain bike. We had hybrid bikes and they were able to do the trail ok but a mountain bike would have been better. Very shady. Lots of poison ivy off of the trail so beware if your walking dogs. I think I also picked up tiny ticks here too, and I was biking not walking.Its a beautiful treasure for Tallahassee

We
Review №84

A very gorgeous and relaxing place for wander, fishing, boating with your friends or families. The garden is small than you think, but it is pretty beautifully. It is really worth time. Besides there is a playground for children.

Mi
Review №85

The park is beautiful and well maintained. There is plenty of shade and places to sit down if needed. There arent a lot of signs showing where to go, so make sure you walk down all of the path openings or you will miss something beautiful.

Je
Review №86

Very well maintained State Park. We enjoyed the natural setting for a break in our holiday travels. Kids played on the playground then we shared a picnic lunch. Absolutely beautiful and clean!

Ki
Review №87

Very beautiful here and peaceful. They keep the park very maintained. Not something i get to see everyday

La
Review №88

I loved it!!! Not happy with entry fee tho.

Ky
Review №89

The park is nice and the entry fee isnt that bad. There is a nice playground and picnic tables that are covered to have birthday parties or other family type get togethers. There is a swimming area if you want to call it that. Murky water with an alligator warning sign, no thanks, Ill pass, but overall a relaxed, laid back place to chill with friends and family. I gave it a three star review because there are several parks in Tallahassee that you can do the same thing for free minus swimming with alligators.

Pa
Review №90

Clever Halloween display.

Je
Review №91

A real gem. Beautiful. Peaceful. Amazing.

Ha
Review №92

We were there today for a Sr. photo shoot. Maclay is an ideal spot for photos any time off the year!

Ko
Review №93

One of my favorite spots in town, nice swimming hole for the kids. A great summer spot.

Ti
Review №94

Nice place for a walk

An
Review №95

Beautiful and clean park

jh
Review №96

Nice place with beutiful gardens state park so theres a fee not to bad. Great place for pics and a picnic. Playground for kids.

Ma
Review №97

Beautiful State Park just off the highway. Great variety of things to do. Swim, fish, kayak (rentals available), short hikes, long hikes, mountain bike, horseback ride (your horses), grassy open areas, picnic tables, grills, large pavilions, beautiful historic gardens to tour. Excellent staff. A place I visit regularly. Pet friendly.

Ki
Review №98

Nothing much to see... Just a long walk of the wooded areas... Nice quiet outdoors hiking.

Se
Review №99

Good place for relax.

J
Review №100

Well worth a visit for a quiet walk through lush North Florida landscape and a nice view of Lake Hill.Best time to visit is in February and March for the many flowering shrubs and trees.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:3540 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32309, United States
  • Site:https://www.floridastateparks.org/park/Maclay-Gardens
  • Phone:+1 850-487-4556
Categories
  • State park
  • Park
  • Tourist attraction
Working hours
  • Monday:8am–7pm
  • Tuesday:8am–7pm
  • Wednesday:8am–7pm
  • Thursday:8am–7pm
  • Friday:8am–7pm
  • Saturday:8am–7pm
  • Sunday:8am–7pm
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
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