Hidden Gems in the heart of tallahassee
By: Jordan Jackson
Welcome to Tallahassee, Summer B students! You’ve officially survived move-in week, unpacked your entire life into a new space, and said goodbye to the people you’ve spent it with. Now that the initial nervousness is settling in, the common myth about starting college during the summer semester is that the campus will be a ghost town and the vibes will be dead. As someone who was where you are four years ago, let me give you the real tea: Summer B will be one of the best times of your life. Mark my words. It will be a core memory you reminisce about later, thinking about how carefree life was and getting your first taste of freedom.
Right now, you might be asking where everyone is and what there is to do. Making friends will be easiest during this time; there aren’t many people, and everyone is trying to find their circle. If you don’t know where to start, my first tip is to sit in your residence hall lobby, or if they have a welcome night, go! You may find yourself with a random group of people that will turn into your closest friends in your college journey. Make yourself open to new experiences, and do it ‘for the plot’, you never know whom you may run into.
The first taste of freedom, a packed car, and friends you’ll reminisce about later. Shoutout to Summer B ‘22
Aside from making connections, finding things to do in Tallahassee takes a little exploring, but it’s not impossible. If you want to experience the party scene, you can check out party promotion pages to see what is happening during the week. It isn’t hard to find a function, as we are in a college town. When you go out, make sure you have your ID, so they don’t upcharge you or turn you away. Wear your beat-up shoes, not the brand-new ones; you will be ‘sick’ if they get dirty. Overall, just have a good time. You may be shy at first, as it all seems like a whirlwind, but once you adjust, the night will feel surreal.
If you aren’t the clubbing type, that’s okay! It has been a stigma that Tallahassee is only good for its football game days and crowded clubs, but when that cycle gets old, the real fun lies in finding hidden gems right in front of us.
If you are looking for a cool area to walk around after class, head over to the Railroad Square Art District. If you want a nice lounge with bright lights, good music, infused or zero-proof drinks, and tap into your inner child with coloring books, the Chil Roadside Bar is the place for you. They host watch parties and soul sessions. Railroad Square has plenty of food options, including wings, Caribbean, and fast food. While there are amazing places to eat and vibrant art murals that define the plaza’s reputation, you can also find unique vintage shops for anyone looking to browse antiques or tap into old-school nostalgia. Cap City Lounge sells physical DVDs and hosts events at its intimate indie cinema. Lastly, don’t miss First Fridays with live music and food galore.
Golden hours surrounded by art at Railroad Square. Photo Credits: The Art District
When the sun finally peeks out from the rain, grab your friends and head to FSU Lakefront Park and Retreat Center (well known as “The Rez”). It is right outside FSU’s campus, and it is a perfect natural reset where you can challenge your balance on a paddleboard, swim, kayak, or lie down for a lakeside picnic. If you want to hop in a car and go on a random adventure, head south to Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park. It’s home to one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs. If you are down for anything, leap from their famous wooden diving tower into the water. They also offer a jungle cruise to view the wildlife.
The perfect daytime getaway right outside campus boundaries. Photo Credits: Tallahassee Democrat, courtesy of FSU Campus Recreation
If you’re looking to hit a 1,2 step without being at a club, grab your boots for Tallahassee’s Line Dance Class, started by Joketra Horne. They have various instructors who host weekly sessions alongside Duke’s and Dottie’s. You will break a sweat, but you will go home being able to take on any trail ride. The best part is that the classes are completely FREE, bring your energy and good vibes.
Mastering the steps during a free community session. Photo Credits: Tallahassee Line Dance Class
At the end of the day, you don’t need to have a ton of money to make memories this summer. Summer B is all about creating your own fun because we are trying to live lavishly on a budget. Throw a game night in your dorm room, host a potluck with friends while watching a trendy show, or just all pitch in on snacks and do a movie night in the common area for everyone. This summer’s fun won’t be about how much you spend but who you spend it with and what you make the most of the experience.
Tallahassee has way more to offer than people think! Exploring places outside the normal college rotation helps avoid dreading being away from home and finding peace outside classes, especially once the fall comes around. Whether you take a solo trip or gather your friend group, there are many things to do in this big yet small city. Own your freedom, step out of your comfort zone, and make this summer count. Welcome to Tally!
