Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park | Tallahassee

Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park is one of Tallahassee's most beautiful and historically rich parks, known for its vibrant ornamental gardens, historic architecture, and a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. Located at 3540 Thomasville Road, it covers more than 1,100 acres and includes formal gardens, nature trails, forests, and lakes.

Historical Background

The gardens were established in 1923 by Alfred Barmore Maclay and his wife, Louise Fleischman Maclay, as a winter retreat. Alfred Maclay was a New York banker and a World War I veteran. The couple designed the gardens in the romantic English style, with winding paths, reflecting pools, a secret garden, and expansive views.

Following Alfred Maclay’s death in 1944, Louise continued to maintain the gardens and later donated the property to the state of Florida in 1953, on the condition that the gardens be preserved. In 2002, the park was placed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Killearn Plantation Archeological and Historic District.

Ornamental Gardens

The centerpiece of the park is the formal gardens, which are best known for their:

Camellias (over 150 cultivars)

Azaleas (around 60 varieties)

Magnolias, dogwoods, and Japanese magnolias

These flowers reach peak bloom from January through April, with the most vivid displays typically occurring in March. During this period, the gardens explode with color, making it the best time to visit.

Key garden features include:

Brick Pathways: Originally hand-laid by the Maclays and preserved today.

Walled Garden: A peaceful enclosed space with vines and blooming shrubs.

Secret Garden: A small hidden area designed for quiet reflection.

Reflecting Pool: A long, rectangular pool bordered by flowers and shaded by oaks.

Maclay House Museum

The Maclay House, built in 1909, is a classic wood-frame structure that served as the Maclay family’s winter residence. During the blooming season (January–April), the house is open to visitors and has been preserved with furnishings, photos, and personal items as it appeared in the 1930s and 1940s.

The museum offers insight into:

The Maclay family's life and legacy

The design philosophy behind the gardens

Florida’s social and horticultural history during the early 20th century

Recreational Activities

Aside from the gardens and the house, the state park includes large natural areas that offer year-round outdoor activities:

Lake Hall

A clean freshwater lake ideal for:

Swimming: A designated beach area is available.

Kayaking/Canoeing: Non-motorized boats are welcome.

Paddleboarding

Fishing: Catch-and-release is permitted in designated areas.

Lake Overstreet

Accessible by trail only, this quieter lake offers:

Wildlife observation

Scenic views

A more remote experience with less crowding

Multi-use Trails

Over 5 miles of trails for hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding

Trails wind through forests, past old live oaks, pines, and dogwoods

Great opportunities for birdwatching and seeing local wildlife such as deer, foxes, bobcats, and owls

Events and Programs

The park regularly hosts seasonal and educational events. Notable events include:

Camellia Christmas (December): Evening garden tours with lights and seasonal music

Moon Over Maclay: A spring jazz concert and social gathering in the gardens

Scarecrows in the Gardens (Fall): Community-designed scarecrows placed throughout the trails

Tour of Gardens: A fundraising event showcasing private gardens in the Tallahassee area

Educational programs are also available for school groups and tour groups upon request.

Facilities and Amenities

Visitor Center: Contains maps, brochures, restrooms, and gift items

Picnic Areas: Pavilions with grills and tables by Lake Hall, available for reservation

Restrooms: Located at multiple points throughout the park

Bicycle Racks and Kayak Launch Sites

Accessible Trails and Facilities: Compliant with ADA guidelines

Admission and Hours

Park Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to sunset

Maclay House Hours: Open January through April, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Admission Fees:

$6 per vehicle (up to 8 people)

Additional $6 per adult and $3 per child (ages 2–12) during blooming season for access to the gardens and house museum

Annual passes accepted

Summary

Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park combines natural beauty, historic significance, and recreational diversity. It's a peaceful retreat year-round, but especially breathtaking during spring. Whether you’re a gardener, nature lover, history buff, or someone simply looking for a beautiful place to relax, this park offers a rich and memorable experience.