Things To Do In Tallahassee When You Don’t Feel Like Going Out
Living in Tallahassee, it is easy to feel like there’s not much to do besides going out or anything that involves drinking. The more time I spend in this city, the more different activities and places to visit I discover. If your liver needs a break, or you’re just a senior like me and plain tired of going out, keep reading for suggestions of things to do and places to go!
Askew Student Life Center
I love going to the movies when I’m bored, but tickets can be especially expensive and the theaters are quite the drive. When I discovered the Askew Student Life Center, FSU’s student-run movie theater, my life was changed. Already happy that I found a closer movie theater, I was even happier when I heard it was free for FSU students. I wasn’t expecting an IMAX experience, but I couldn’t turn down a free movie. It’s not what I expected to get for free though, the theater is very clean, professional and the quality of the movie was the same as you would see at an AMC. The Askew Student Life Center shows a range of movies. When I last visited the student life center, I saw a movie that hadn’t come out in theaters yet. They don’t do this every week, but if they are showing a not yet released movie, you should take advantage of this. Besides that, they also play old, classic movies, documentaries, movies from the ’90s and many more. If you haven’t checked out the Askew Student Life Center yet, definitely check this place out for a free and quality movie.
F45 At The Health and Wellness Center
Having few, actual, good experiences in free workout classes I was very skeptical of trying the F45 class at FSU’s Health and Wellness Center. Upon entering, I spoke to a few regulars who told me the class is definitely challenging. Still skeptical, I decided to see for myself. After the warmup alone, I could tell that breaking a sweat would not be an issue. F45 is essentially a HIIT Workout (High-Intensity Interval Training), lasting 45 minutes and focusing on either cardio or weights. In the last 10 minutes of my first class, I looked over at my friends beside me, and they were dripping in sweat and on the verge of giving up like I was. Though the class was very difficult, none of us ever gave up- thanks to the cheerful and motivating instructors. The current and hype music was also a huge plus. The atmosphere in general of the class was very uplifting and fun to be a part of. Overall, the F45 class at the Health and Wellness Center is definitely worth trying.
Take a trip to Railroad Square
Railroad Square is the art district of Tallahassee tucked away on Gaines street. Full of local businesses, unique bars, and beautiful artwork, there is much to do in this part of Tallahassee. Railroad square often has art festivals and shows, filled with food trucks and beautiful pieces to view. In the midst of this beautiful art, there are also really interesting stores selling hand made and vintage clothing as well as pieces for your home. Browsing through only a few of the stores, I found really cool vintage FSU shirts as well as some beautiful jewelry pieces. Even if you aren’t interested in making a purchase, the local stores all carry interesting and unique items that are fun to look at. The food is equally as great in quality, taste, and prices. If you’re looking for something to do in your spare time, Railroad Square is an option that will be worth your while.
Fire Bettys Arcade
Fire Bettys, an adult arcade with a stocked bar is as much fun as it sounds. Located in midtown, it’s not far from many restaurants and businesses. Although it is an adult arcade, Fire Bettys still has all of your favorite classic arcade games, most importantly- air hockey. They also have great food, and even have live entertainment sometimes. Fire Bettys is the perfect in-between if you don’t want to go out or stay in. They also have special deals listed on their Facebook page, including a mention of karaoke on Wednesdays. Their Facebook also shows there raving reviews- having 4.5 out of 5 stars (and being reviewed by many people) is quite more impressive than you would expect. Either way, seeing those reviews shows you how many people have had a positive experience at Fire Bettys. With that being said, grab your friends and head to Fire Bettys for a different kind of fun night out.
Go thrifting
One thing Tallahassee is great for is having good thrift stores. Thrifting is something I’ve been itching to do- simply make a trip to your closest Goodwill and shop for hidden gems or pieces that you can rework and make something new from. Thrifting is so great for finding unique clothes and a fun, lowkey activity to do. This can be especially fun and entertaining with your friends, and you may even end up making your new favorite piece. Thrifting is a creative and interesting pass-time, and also a great way to save money on unique clothes. Whether you’re looking for something vintage, a trendy fabric, or a unique accessory- you will find it all and then some. Thrift stores in Tallahassee also are usually filled with FSU gear- which is much cheaper than you will find anywhere else. Even if you don’t think you’re creative, you will be surprised by what you can make and find by digging through a thrift store.
What I’ve learned here is that Tallahassee is more than college bars and wine nights. When you take the time to explore and ask around, there are so many other things to do on your Friday nights. Take advantage of your next night in, and try visiting a local store or spend time with friends at Fire Bettys.
Featured Image Source: https://www.tallahassee.com/story/news/money/2019/04/29/capital-city-amphitheater-struggles-break-even-devoe-moore-center-study-shows/3575767002/
Senior at FSU.