We’ve all been in that awkward situation where you’re itching to spend time with friends and go out for days, but the moment you’re actually there, you can’t help but feel the urge to Irish-exit and call it a night. The music isn’t the vibe, your outfit isn’t outfitting, and you can’t even hear your friend over all the noise.
Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love going out, and some days you really just want to lose yourself to loud dance music, party in a big crowd, and wear the uncomfortable, but body-snatching outfit that you’ve been dying to wear. It’s somewhat part of the FSU “standard” to be the type of person who enjoys this kind of night.
However, not every night going out has to be 100% party. It can be really fun (and sometimes even more fun) to go out casually with your friends. So, whether you’re tired of going to the same clubs or just curious about what Tallahassee has to offer, here are five ways you can go out without actually “going out!”
- Oyster City Trivia Night
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Put your and your friends’ minds together and come to Oyster City trivia night every Wednesday from 7-9 p.m. My friends and I have committed to going almost every Wednesday, and now it’s become part of our schedule.
We take it very seriously, except for our team name, and it’s become the perfect way to take a break from studying or work. The winning team also gets a free round of drinks, which is a pleasant plus.
- Pool Day With Friends
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What’s a better way to take advantage of going to a Florida school than going to the pool practically all year round? Many of the apartment complexes offer pools and welcome guests.
Some pools even have grills or TVs, so you can barbecue while watching the game. A lot of pools will also do events like host local DJs or restaurants. Just be prepared for a crowd; everyone enjoys the sun here in Tallahassee.
- Bird’s Oyster Shack Karaoke Night
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Every Thursday at 9 p.m., you can expect to hear people singing at the top of their lungs coming from the doors of Bird’s Oyster Shack. From Evanessence to Drake, Bird’s is the perfect place to let go and sing that one karaoke song you’ve had sitting in your back pocket. The atmosphere is chill with lots of cool decor around, but make sure to get there early if you don’t want to sing your song at midnight, hours after the request, as it can get super busy some nights.
- FSU Orgs Party Nights
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Looking to get involved and make friends, all while still having a great night out? Well, going to one of the parties hosted by an FSU organization might be your vibe. Organizations like Club Downunder, The Music Industry Connection, Diverse World Fashion, Skateboarding Club, and many more host parties or events that you don’t want to miss.
With live music, fun themes, and even local artists, these parties are the perfect way to go out without going to a club or bar. They are quintessentially college. To stay up to date on where and when these events are happening, make sure to follow the groups on Instagram and look out for updates.
- Dinner at Gordos
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Last, but certainly not least, is the necessary dinner at Gordos. Whether you’re going to have a good time or just to enjoy some great Cuban food, Gordos is a perfect place to bring a stack of cards and chat with your friends on their outdoor patio. Looking at other tables around you, you’ll see many other students and a packed restaurant.
This going-out plan could also apply to other restaurants, but Gordos is definitely a staple in the Tallahassee community for going out with friends without “going out.”
P.S. Don’t forget to grab your big cup on the way out; it’ll be an important household item.
While it’s fun to go out with your friends to one of the usual clubs or bars in Tallahassee, it’s important to remember that quality time and a change of scenery are essential to having a good, balanced schedule of “going out.”
Tallahassee offers so many ways to have a good time, so take advantage and don’t be afraid to redefine what a “night out” looks like for you!
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