This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at FSU chapter.
During my time at Florida State University (FSU), I spent much of my free time exploring the area and finding new places. Whether you’re an incoming freshman or current student at FSU, these are four spots I recommend checking out in the area as they have become my favorite places to keep going back to and have made my Tallahassee experience worth-while.
1. Railroad Square Art District
Photo by Sharod Bines
Whether you’re looking to thrift, grab a bite or watch live entertainment, Railroad Square Art District has it all! This is one of my favorite places to come on the weekends since it’s home to over 70 shops, galleries and other small businesses. I always love exploring their vintage shops and finding one-of-a-kind pieces including vintage FSU gear. Railroad Square Craft House is my favorite brunch spot to go to due to its large outside seating area which is perfect for those beautiful sunny days. There’s something to do for everyone no matter what you’re interested including a pinball arcade, gaming shop, an indoor rock-climbing wall and so much more! To learn more about the art district and its events, make sure to visit their site.
2. Lafayette Heritage Square Park
Lafayette Heritage Square Park is by far one of my favorite parks to go to in Tallahassee. Tallahassee is home to many beautiful outdoor parks and facilities and being outside is a great way for me to unwind and destress from school and other responsibilities I have. Lafayette Heritage Square Park offers plenty of scenic views and a whopping seven-mile trail. It’s a perfect place to cycle, walk, jog, reflect and even throw a picnic with friends. If you enjoy exploring nature this is the place for you, it feels like a getaway while still being within city bounds and the views are breathtaking.
When I moved to Florida State, I made it a mission to find a nearby beach that I could go to. Being that I grew up in South Florida my entire life, going to the beach was a weekly activity for me and became the whole I-live-where-you-vacation type thing. I began researching nearby beaches and made my way over to Shell Point beach in Crawfordville, about a 35-minute drive from campus. This was an amazing find and a hidden little gem. Although Shell Point is a much smaller beach, it has its perks because it’s clean, quiet, serene and a very scenic spot. Make sure to head to Shell Point if you want a nice relaxing beach day or love to catch a good sunset!
4. The Reservation aka “The Rez”
The Florida State University Reservation is an outdoor recreation facility located on Lake Bradford and is a short drive from campus. The Rez offers a wide range of outdoor and indoor activities which is great for trying something new. Activities include kayaking, paddle boarding, volleyball, table tennis, rock climbing and more and all watercraft rentals and fees are free to FSU students. The Rez is a great way to switch things up on the weekends and the best part is you can try out a different activity each time while also meeting and interacting with other students.
Gabriela is a senior at Florida State University majoring in Retail Entrepreneurship. Gabriela’s interests include fashion, beauty, fitness and spending time outside. After graduation Gabriela hopes to move to New York to pursue a masters degree in Fashion Management.
