Living in a FAMU apartment means you're never too far from something fun. Whether you're a first-year Rattler or a senior at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Tallahassee has plenty of local events that can break up your usual class routine and give you something new to look forward to. Even if you've lived here for a while, there's always another part of the city to experience.
Spend Your Friday at Railroad Square
First Fridays at Railroad Square Art District are perfect when you want to go out without planning too much. On the first Friday of each month, the district comes alive from 6 to 9 p.m. with open art galleries, local vendors, food trucks and live music. Best of all, the event is free to attend.
Take your time walking through the shops, or stop for pictures near the colorful murals. Since vendors and activities change from month to month, every visit offers something a little different.
Railroad Square is also a great place to discover Black-owned businesses. Local organizations like Black Biz Tally have hosted events in the district that spotlight Black entrepreneurs in the Tallahassee community.
The district sits right off FAMU Way, making it an easy outing for students living in FAMU apartments near Railroad Square. Roads close around 6 p.m. for foot traffic, so plan to park along FAMU Way, carpool or get dropped off. Bring a friend or roommate and make a full evening of it.
Catch Up With Everyone at Set Friday
You don't always have to leave campus to find something fun. Set Friday is one of the easiest ways to catch up with friends and see what's happening around FAMU. Vendors set up at each Set Friday, and sponsors sometimes hand out free snacks or products. Campus organizations also use the event to promote upcoming programs, so you can learn about something new while enjoying the atmosphere between classes.
Some Set Fridays have themes, and dressing up for them adds another fun element, especially when you go with friends.
Set Friday is a great option when you want to get out of your apartment without spending money. If you live in apartments near FAMU along the Venom Express route, you can ride the shuttle to campus and skip the hassle of parking.
Enjoy Live Music at Cascades Park
After a long week, sometimes you just need a different view. Cascades Park hosts concerts and community events throughout the year, giving you a reason to spend more time outside. The park's Adderley Amphitheater is named after jazz legends Julian "Cannonball" and Nat Adderley, who were both FAMU graduates, so catching a show there comes with a little Rattler pride.
For general admission shows, bring a blanket and find a comfortable spot on the grass. It's an easy way to enjoy live music with friends.
Some events at Cascades Park are free, while others require a ticket. Plans can change, so check the City of Tallahassee's Cascades Park page before heading out, and review parking options ahead of time. If you want to be closer to the action, browse apartments near Cascades Park.
Shop Local at the Tallahassee Downtown Market
The Tallahassee Downtown Market is a great weekend option if you enjoy supporting local businesses. The market runs Saturday mornings from March through November at Ponce de Leon Park in downtown Tallahassee.
Local vendors offer fresh produce and handmade products, and you may also find artwork and other unique pieces depending on who's set up that weekend.
You don't need to spend much to enjoy the market. Take your time walking around and see what stands out. You might find something for your apartment or a thoughtful gift for someone back home.
The market is a simple daytime outing when you and your roommates want to do something different. If you don't have a car, look into Tallahassee apartments near public transportation so getting downtown is easy.
Make Tallahassee Feel More Like Home
When your schedule gets busy, it's easy to go straight from class back to your apartment. Local events give you a chance to slow down and see what Tallahassee has to offer outside of campus.
Start with the event that sounds most interesting to you. There's no pressure to explore the entire city in one weekend, and trying one new place at a time keeps it relaxed.
Your college experience includes more than what happens in the classroom. Invite someone to join you and try something outside your usual routine. You might find an event just minutes from your FAMU apartment that becomes one of your favorite Tallahassee traditions.