Tallahassee-Leon County Launches “Bicentennial Backyard Bucket List” Challenge
An ideal opportunity to support local businesses during the bicentennial year

Tallahassee-Leon County Government proudly announces the launch of its Bicentennial-themed Backyard Bucket List, designed to support local businesses and educate residents about their community as a continually evolving visitor destination. Held in partnership with the Capital City Chamber of Commerce and Tallahassee Foodies, the Bicentennial Backyard Bucket List runs from June to August and features a “bucket list” of more than 100 local businesses and attractions to explore, including restaurants, breweries, shops, museums, parks, monuments and events.
“Tallahassee-Leon County’s rich history and vibrant community spirit make this a perfect opportunity for residents to rediscover and support local businesses during our Bicentennial year,” said Carolyn Cummings, Tallahassee-Leon County commission chair. “We invite everyone to join us in exploring our county and finding the treasures it has to offer.”
Throughout the challenge, the Bicentennial Backyard Bucket List website will showcase partners, encouraging residents to visit the selected businesses and check in through the Visit Tallahassee mobile app. Each check-in earns participants one entry to the contest, while 10, 15 and 20 entries earn separate prizes. At the end of the campaign, one grand prize winner will be awarded a two-night staycation that includes hotel accommodations, meals and activities.

Challenger Learning Center. Photo courtesy of Visit Tallahassee / Leon County Division of Tourism
“It’s exciting to watch our destination continue to shine through this initiative,” said Tallahassee-Leon County administrator Vincent S. Long. “The County’s Bicentennial Backyard Bucket List program continues to guide local residents to new experiences, shining a light on all that makes Tallahassee-Leon County a South’s Best community.”
Participation in the program is free, although some locations may have an entry fee. Below is a sampling of the partners featured in the program. For the complete list of businesses and attractions, go to VisitTallahassee.com/Backyard-Bucket-List.
- Amicus Brewing Ventures
- Bar 1903
- Challenger Learning Center
- Chuck’s Fish
- Goodwood Museum & Gardens
- Union Bank Museum
- Il Lusso
- Tallahassee Museum
- Halisi Africa & Zanzi Bar
- Tally Kombucha
- The Other Side Vintage
“Data shows that nearly 25% of tourists who come to Tallahassee are visiting friends or family, and this program encourages residents to explore their own backyard this Bicentennial year,” said Kerri L. Post, Tallahassee-Leon County’s director of tourism. “Supporting local businesses is essential to maintaining the vibrant community spirit that makes Tallahassee-Leon County unique.”

Tallahassee Museum. Photo courtesy of Visit Tallahassee / Leon County Division of Tourism
The Bicentennial Backyard Bucket List is still growing, and there are additional opportunities for local businesses and organizations to partner. For more information about adding your local business to the list of participating partners, please email Katie Kole, Visit Tallahassee, at Katie.Kole@VisitTallahassee.com.
To learn more and view the official sweepstakes rules and a list of local partners and prizes, go to VisitTallahassee.com/Backyard-Bucket-List.
For more information, contact Scott Lindeman, Visit Tallahassee, at Scott.Lindeman@VisitTallahassee.com.
About Visit Tallahassee:
Visit Tallahassee is the official destination marketing organization charged with marketing Tallahassee-Leon County as a premier leisure, business and sports destination through direct sales, advertising, public relations, sports and visitor services. The Capital of Cross Country, Tallahassee-Leon County, is home to the internationally recognized cross-country course at Apalachee Regional Park, which will serve as the host for the 2026 World Athletics Cross Country Championships. In 2023, Tallahassee-Leon County welcomed 2.4 million visitors who contributed $1.25 billion in economic impact and accounts for more than 12,790 people employed in our community in the tourism and hospitality industry. For more information, go to VisitTallahassee.com, or call toll-free (800) 628-2866. Engage with Visit Tallahassee on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, or visit us at the Tallahassee-Leon County Visitor Information Center and Gift Shop located at 414 E. Bloxham Street, Suite 115, Tallahassee, Florida 32301.