The people that we're working at the main building when you first enter and the two ladies working in the tiki hut were very nice an accommodating. All the early settlers such as the Spanish, English, French and Dutch had "marital" relationships with the Indigenous Americans even if they were not per say married. It was a rare occurrence for all European colonies to have an actual marriage between a European and a Native American. Regardless, there are many Americans that claim and prove to have Native American Ancestry, shown through DNA testing. Where I roll my eyes a little is that most claim to be related to Pocahontas and Geranamo. Because this is a Spanish mission, in some placards they emphasize that some Spanish men "intermarried" with the indigenous women and that the indigenous peoples found that to be a bettering of themselves. Of course, this is all speculation. In Cuban History, you learn that there was a complete genocide of the Indigenous peoples. It is well documented. Many of the indigenous preferred to throw themselves off the cliffs than to fall on the Spanish sword. Hatuey, who fought Spanish colonizers, famously said, "Then I do not want to go where they are. I would rather go to hell so as not to be where they are and where I would not see such cruel people." This is why there are no indigenous peoples in Cuba. Some of the Spanish conquistadors were even eaten by the indigenous. But this place would have you believe things were hunky dory between the Spanish and the indigenous. The Spanish were very Catholic and very strict with the social class or social caste system and would not "marry" the indigenous women they took. Even the historical actor said that the ledgers were all burnt and there isn't any historical legal evidence of their marriage unions. There is a lot of speculation about the past and not too much fact. read more

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Very interesting place to visit. Specially for visitors driving through Tallahassee and decide to stop on beautiful Sunday morning and relax learning a part of history of our country. It appears well run place. This weekend was Native American Festival on property what make our visit more enjoyable. Also, we learned today that Apalachee are not recognized by Federal Government what made us sad. read more

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Great interactive display with buildings on well maintained grounds. People dressed in period costumes educate you about the site and the activities that occured at this mission in the 17th century. Great visitor center. read more

Wow, I could spend all day here. This was a really neat find when we were stranded in Tallahassee during a hurricane. Looking for interesting things to do, I stumbled on this museum almost by accident and we spent several hours on the grounds speaking to the reenactment staff who can describe the 1700's culture, customs, history with resounding accuracy. To me, the most impressive structure was the counsel house. This is a reproduction, but the original would have been an engineering marvel. It seemed to be three or four stories tall with different cubicles for each family to sit. The roof is thatched and a huge opening in the center keeps it cool. They have items on display and people to explain what went on inside. Definitely a highlight. The rest of the grounds housed the Friars quarter, fort, blacksmith shop, garden and at each point there is someone there to explain what the building was and what went on during the time. The blacksmith was particularly interesting because he was making goods as we watched. I could go on and on, but if you are a history buff and enjoy reenactments, this will be quite a treat for you. read more

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Went on a field trip with the school. Cool stuff to learn about but every single one of the staff is as extremely mean to all the children. Yelling at them to be quiet, and yelled at a boy that he couldn't take a leaf that was on the ground. That literally wasn't an important thing. Do not recommend and will never go back. read more

Love taking visitors to this interesting and beautiful place.The enactors are great to speak with,and will impart their historic knowledge.It is fascinating to watch the Master Blacksmith at work,and he is wonderful with allowing the children to be hands on! It is a very low admission price.There is a lovely gift shop also.They have special events periodically,such as Solstices and there is free admission on the day of Blessing of the Animals.Do not miss !!! read more

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We brought the kids here for a bit of history and thought we might spend an hour. More than two hours later, our kids were still interested and engaged. There was a lot to see and do and a lot to learn. I think it's perfect for a really interested four year old and anyone older. The Friar was everyone's favorite part. He played his part well, was great with the kids, and had so much information to share. He talked about what every day life was like, taught them about different herbs and traditional medicine, gave them a history of the property, and showed them the garden and his favorite tree. The two women in the Spanish house are the only thing that made me consider a four star rating. They were not good with children, and acted like our presence was an interruption to their sitting around and talking with each other. When we walked in one of them disciplined my six year old for not knocking on their door - not in a friendly or joking way - as if he had done something wrong for continuing a tour we paid to take. The interaction only went downhill from there, and although it doesn't seem fair to lower the rating when everyone else was so wonderful, I hope they will work to find people who are good with children in the future. read more

Why don't more people know about this fantastic place?! I had an afternoon to kill in Northern Florida, and drove to Tallahassee on a whim with no idea of what to do. It took some digging to find this place, even as this place screams "ME!!!" with its indigenous history, Spanish colonial past, etc. We showed up at 3:40 and found out we'd have 20 minutes to check the place out. Not great, but this was my first and maybe last afternoon in Tallahassee so better to have a glimpse. And "glimpse" is an understatement - more like a "gawk" - when you see the massive council house. Without getting too much into it, this is an archaeologically correct reconstruction of the hall where the native Apalachee tribe held their functions, in a massive conical space with a big open-center top. A costumed interpreter was there to provide brief info and answer questions, though we unfortunately kept our eye on the clock - I could've just soaked up the massiveness of the room twice as long as we stayed. We skipped a few other exhibits due to prioritizing, missing the blacksmith shop among other things, to head back to the reconstructed Spanish fort. At 3:53 the gate inside the fort was still open, but the interpreter had already closed the doors to the actual structure was closed - which was okay, since we've seen Spanish forts before and at least had a notion of what they consist of. On the way back we checked out the church, and as the friar and nun rang out the church bells they joined us inside. The lights in the church were out, giving off an interesting vibe in this very barn-like Franciscan building, complete with a choir of bats singing in the darkness. A bit more clarity on the Spanish Catholic mission (so to speak) from them, which shows just how caring and great these people are. I mean, here we are barging in on a quiet day just before they're closing, and still they're enthusiastically doing their part. We talked with them right up until 4 and then had to make our way back to the entrance. But when we got there, the lady who took our cash offered to screen the 13-minute video for us as she was closing up - how thoughtful! So we got to watch it, and it was really put together well. It worked well as a recapitulation of everything we had just seen, and enhanced everything we had just seen on our brief excursion. I'd think you really need about 90 minutes to 2 hours to really do justice here. We had little choice but to see what we could, and I'm glad we attempted it rather than move on - I learned a lot about the history of this area and the archaeologists who are preserving it for the benefits of us all. read more

Mission San Luis is so convenient, I can't believe I've lived here this long and not visited until today. I had a great time watching the informative video, viewing the artifact collections, and perusing the impressively reconstructed grounds of the mission. For a $5 entry fee, the value is immense! There are reenactors, structures to visit, and beautiful grounds to walk on. Bonus points for being dog friendly! I'll be back. read more

I can't believe no one has reviewed this place yet. The Mission is PHENOMENAL. The place is really done well. The accuracy is amazing. The rebuilt area is dead on and wonderfully done. The welcome center seems pretty new and has great display areas. They also have an archaeology lab that opens once and a while for a tour. On the grounds, they have period tour guides showing you what went on in that location. They also gave historical information about the Apalachee and Spanish. We got there at park open, 10:00, and waited for our group tour to begin. It started with a 12 minute film, then we wen outside for the walking tour. I will update more later, but this place is great! read more

Wonderful historical afternoon. Beautifully kept, great prices ($5 per adult, less for others and free for under 6). It was fun for my child to run around; lots of space to run and burn off energy while also learning about the history and great for parents. read more

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Beautiful living history museum! The council house, blacksmith shop, the friar and his church, etc. were all place and people to learn from. Characters in period costumes were delightful to talk to, so much to be learned. I look forward to returning here again! read more

Mission San Luis - The Council House - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

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closed Monday and some holidays, so check the website. I've been trying to go for a while as I'm rarely in Tallahassee except holidays. the museum entrance is very nice with a small archeological exhibit and a video. Definitely watch the video as it will help guide you through the outside area, although there is good signage outside. Florida can be super hot and the museum was very nicely air conditioned. There are a few wheelchairs if you need them (I'm not sure if they have motorized ones, we just used the push kind). the outside has a wonderful path that is great for the wheelchairs. They've recreated a number of buildings that you would find if you traveled back in time. On the day we were there, two re-enactors were around to explain the buildings and every day life. Adults are $5; Seniors are $3; active military with ID are free read more

Book the Mission for your next event! I held a work mixer here for new clients. Everyone loved the venue. I could not be happier with the planners (shout out to Katie) and the amazing atmosphere they created. read more

This really is a fun place for children and adults alike, particularly when there is a "living history" event going on, such as the "Muster" event that I attended. The Mission San Luis is reconstruction of a 17th Century Spanish mission that was occupied for about 50 years and was a place of meeting for the Spanish and Apalachee people. There are a number of buildings to tour on the property, and the surrounding trees and tranquility make it easy to forget you are in the middle of Tallahassee. First you enter the visitor's center, which includes a number of multi-use rooms for rent (events, weddings, etc.), a gift shop, the ticket counter ($5 for adults with discounts for military, seniors, children, but not college students), and a large room that features the static exhibits - pretty standard museum fare, large displays about various bits of the site's history, with the text in both English and Spanish, as well as some original and replica items recovered during archaeological digs. Our visit was on a Saturday with a special living history event, so when we left the visitor's center there were several canopy tents set up selling lunch, ice cream, etc. Then came a large traditional Apalachee dwelling (I'm talking REALLY big) that was not accessible but we were told they were repairing the structure and it will be a part of the self-guided tour again at some point in the near future. There were many volunteers in period dress, all very nice and informative, demonstrating various techniques used at the Mission. Some of these included: a demonstration of a native drink, a cookfire, a demonstration of the use of spears with atlatl, an opportunity to try out the use of a bow at a little range (including the kiddies) and demonstration of musketry at the fort at the rear of the compound. During our visit, the big finale of the day's demonstration was the firing of a cannon. I've seen a good number of cannon demonstrations in my day, but it's still always a fun experience. Other buildings include the Friary, the church (which appeared to have a rat/bat problem near the Confessional, but was still a cool spot), and a period kitchen complete with oven. In short, this a really fun place. One of the most fun history-oriented experiences to be had in Tallahassee, right up there with the Museum of Florida History downtown - a must see for locals and history-buff visitors. read more

It cost $5/adult, but it's worth it. When we walk-in, you are greeted and pay at the small counter. Their is a small gift shop and a little in-door museum of artifacts along with a 30 min video. We headed straight out side. There are paved sidewalks which are flat and wide. All along the way, there are signs explaining things. However, one of the actors explained how the signs are from 20 years ago and they have discovered a lot of new things that make the signs not as accurate so make sure to ask the actors lots of questions. Everything is close together so you can get an easy visual of what the town would have been like in the 1600's. If you want to get the most out of your visit, check out the website before hand so you can plan out your visit. We made a drop-by visit, but spent 1.5 hour there just seeing everything outside. We only got to take a quick stroll thru the in-door museum before leaving. At every building, there is an actor there to tell you more about the building and the culture of that time period. Council House, Spanish House, Blacksmith (where they show you how to make nails), Fort, Friar Chapel, and the Church (currently under construction). There is the game field where they played the war game. It's interesting to learn about the Apalachee Indians' history and development over the years here. For those who like the outdoors, this is a great museum. There is even a 1/3 mile hike in the woods in the back right corner. It's hilly and roughed. There was a building, we think it was used for making wine around the 1800's. When we go again, I will plan our visit so we can do a tour and workshop. read more

For just $5, you can enjoy a wonderful, historical attraction in Tallahassee. It's not large by any means, but still impressive nonetheless. The entire area was in good condition and curated quite well, with plans to continuously improve certain areas. I was especially impressed by the indoor museum, located in the main building, and the reconstruction of an Apalachee Council House. We only ran into one person in period costume telling us stories, but I think it was because we were there towards the end of the day. There was a wedding rehearsal while we were there, and I can imagine that this would be a great space for such an event. There are lots of great photo ops, and I imagine also a perfect place for families with young children to explore together. read more

Reconstruction of a Spanish mission that was first built on this site in 1643 , a place where the Spaniards interacted with the local Appalachee Indians.. (via missionary activities and trade.) A fascinating attraction for anyone at all interested in history , archaeology, or Native American life (this was a mission for local Appalacheee Indians).. The original structures were all burned down by the Spanish in 1704 to avoid capture by the British, but the reconstructions seem quite good.. A quite detailed exhibit in the welcome center at the front explains all the archaeological work that went into them, and there is also a film shown there which explains the history of the site in great detail. Museum exhibits are bilingual (English and Spanish). The exhibits do a good job of conveying what daily life was like for the Apalachee Indian and Spanish inhabitants of the area. There is a quite nice but short nature trail here, which leads through a mixed hardwood and pine hammock down into a ravine with some natural springs (which were used by the Spanish and Apalachee Indians who were the users of this mission complex..) It involves some relatively "steep" climbing (by Florida standards, not at all by the standards of New Mexico, where I lived before here!) Look for the red Yaupon Holly berries along the trail, the Apalachee used this to make a tea, as it contains caffeine. Even if you don't care that much about the historical aspects, this is a very nice, tranquil place to walk around on a sunny day.. Admission is $5 a person, which seems like a bargain given that there is quite a bit to see here.. read more

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Beautiful spot for a venue. The grounds are very pretty.

Good for adults interested in history and for children the costumed docents provide a good living history. Nice place! Terrific historical site. Costumed docents were very enthusiastic and knowledgable. I am also surprised that more reviews have not been posted for this hidden gem. Florida needs to promote their historical sites more. Some of us are interested in more than golf, beaches and Disney. The previous reviewers have done a great job of characterizing the mission and its offerings. read more

I wish I could give more than 5 stars! I couldn't be more impressed! We were going to be in Tallahassee for the weekend, and because we homeschool, decided to see if there were any educational events happening that we could include. I found the Mission listed on 'events' and decided we would check it out. I am so very glad we did. We arrived at 2 in the afternoon and they close at 4. We were there past closing, but NO ONE tried pushing us off the grounds. The two 'soldiers' took the time to let our 9 year old girl hold some cannon balls and check out their armory. The indoor museum and the short film were both impressive. Every member of the staff was inviting and made us feel welcome. The costumed actors were friendly, knowledgeable, and patient. At no time did we feel rushed through the area. We all learned a lot. We are currently studying Florida history before the Civil War and were able to learn a lot to bring back to our homeschool co-op. We all learned a great deal about the Appalachee and Spanish before the Civil War and enjoyed the relaxing time there. The biggest advice I would give anyone, is allow more than 2 hours. If there is an event going on, you may want to add a LOT more time. It is certainly worth it. read more

Love the dog park here. Wish it was a little cleaner though. it can get muddy after it rains (and everyone knows it rains a lot in tally)

This is a hidden gem amid the hustle and bustle of Tennessee Street. The renactors do a wonderful job of engaging visitors and explaining what life was like for those that lived there more than 300 hundred years ago. The welcome center's exhibits contained fascinating artifacts from the site. it's also just a beautiful place to walk around and enjoy the atmosphere. This is a must-see for out-of-town visitors. read more

i love bringing my dog here. they are super friendly and have a great thing going on here. i recommend others to visit