Family Weekend is just around the corner, and that means visiting your student here in Tallahassee, Florida for a weekend of catching up and Seminole spirit at Florida State University. While there are many opportunities to dine, visit, and explore campus, perhaps you want to take the time to explore a little past the on-campus fun. Tallahassee has numerous local businesses and unique attractions for you to see while you’re in town. Here are some options for your student and family to experience while in town this weekend. 

Attractions. Not only is Tallahassee the capital for FSU Football, it is also the capital of the state of Florida. Tallahassee, dubbed the Capital City, is home to many historic sites, including the Florida Capitol Complex and the Historic Capitol Museum. In the 22-story complex, you can visit the observatory and gallery on the 22nd floor to see a gorgeous panoramic view of Tallahassee, and to view some artwork completed by notable Florida artists. The Historic Capitol offers self-guided tours of the ‘old capitol,’ and you can see interesting artifacts and learn more about Tallahassee’s legislative history. Both the Capitol Complex and Historic Capitol have free admission for visitors. Near campus you can find a hidden treasure in the heart of downtown: Railroad Square Art Park. In this art district, you can find eclectic artwork, unique restaurants and cafes, and lots of local shops for you to walk through. This is a favorite among Tallahassee locals and college students alike, and is an absolute must-see if you’re in town. If you’re not looking to spend money within the park, the vibrant artworks and buildings makes the walk through the district worth it. 

Another great way to experience Tallahassee is by utilizing the new electric scooters to ride through Cascades Park and enjoy the peaceful environment. (Just remember that these e-scooters are not permitted on campus).

Park Avenue Historic District is a chain of seven parks located in Tallahassee’s downtown. It is home to many events throughout the year, including the weekly Saturday Downtown Market, and is a picturesque part of downtown- even more so when the twinkling lights in the trees come on every night. On College Avenue, you can find another photo opportunity: a postcard-styled mural. Brightly colored and alluding to Tallahassee’s most iconic features, it represents the Capital City well and serves as an artistic rendering of what makes Tallahassee so wonderful. Inside of Cascades Park, you can also find a large orange sculpture of the letters TLH, which make for a cute photo opportunity for you and your student in their new home. 

Dining. Besides enthusiasm for athletics and serving as Florida’s capital, there is nothing that Tallahassee does better than being a foodie’s dream. Whether you’re looking for a night out on the town, a delicious Southern lunch, or a tasty breakfast, Tallahassee has it all. Check out all the recommended dining opportunities here in the Capital City.

Breakfast: Lucky Goat Coffee Co., Canopy Road Cafe, SoDOUGH Baking Co., The Edison, Uptown Cafe, RedEye Coffee, Donut Kingdom, Bada Bean, All Saints Cafe, Black Dog Cafe, Catalina Cafe. 

Lunch: Jeri’s Midtown Cafe, Wells Brothers Bar and Grill, Kool Beanz Cafe, Chi Chi’s Cafe, Bird’s Aphrodisiac Oyster Shack, Hopkins Eatery, Momo’s Pizza, The Lunchbox, Vertigo Burgers and Fries, VooDoo Dog.

Dinner: Marie Livingston’s, Backwoods Bistro, Z. Bardhi’s Italian Cuisine, Madison Social, Centrale, Township, Table 23, Andrew’s Capital Grill and Bar, Midtown Caboose, Masa, Bella Bella, Mom and Dad’s Italian Restaurant. 

Nightlife: The Brass Tap, Proof Brewing Co., Lake Tribe Brewing, Fire Betty’s Arcade Bar, Madison Social, Township, The Fox and Stag, Liberty Bar and Restaurant. 

Snacks: Tasty Pastry Bakery, Lofty Pursuits, Sugar Rush Bar, Nothing Bundt Cakes, N2 Sweets, Magda’s, Big Easy Snowballs, Lucy & Leo’s Cupcakery. 

Shopping. A great way to spend your time in Tallahassee is enjoying all of the businesses and shops that Tallahassee has to offer. All over town, you can find many different boutiques, including Quarter Moon Imports, Loli and the Bean, Olde Fields Clothing Co., Lucky and Charmed, and Sparkle by Madison. Local shopping options for men include Southern Compass Outfitters and Cape Harbor Outfitters. If you’re in search of some FSU gear, you can head over to the FSU Bookstore, Garnet and Gold, Alumni Hall, or Bill’s Bookstore for the latest FSU items. In addition to these local stores, Tallahassee is also home to the Governor’s Square and Tallahassee Malls which contains popular department stores and chains. For Tallahassee souvenirs, you can check out the Visitor Information Center where there are many cute shirts, hats, and stickers. Some local businesses and boutiques in town also have their own spin on Tallahassee merchandise for sale. 

Even this general guide to Tallahassee only touches on a little of what the city offers its visitors. If you have any questions or need suggestions for the weekend, you can always call (850-606-2305) or visit the Visitor Information Center & Gift Shop (106 E Jefferson Street).

By Abby Cloud