Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
Culture

The Ultimate Guide To a Staycation in Tallahassee

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at FSU chapter.

Spring Break: the break we wait for all year. It’s the break characterized by beach days and fun vacations spent with family and friends. It’s the one time during the spring semester that the students get a week-long break from the never-ending stress of academics. However, this year, spring break looks a little different.

As I’m sure you all know, it was canceled for Florida State University (FSU) students. I would be lying if I said it was not a bummer, but it did inspire me to do some research on what there is to do here in Tallahassee, apart from the party scene. Today, I’m going to share a few of the cool things I came across that could make your spring break here at school seem not so much like what it is: a “spring break” at school. 

For an Outdoors Person: Cascades Park

Couple talking on park bench
Photo by Kelly Sikkema from Unsplash

If you are someone who loves being outside and nature and fresh air, you’re honestly in the perfect city. (Actually, one of the first things I noticed upon starting school here was the beautiful trees.) Tallahassee is flooded with parks with nice open landscapes and beautiful nature surrounding them. Although all of these parks are great, and I’d love to walk around them all one day, I have really become hooked on Cascades Park.

It’s located right next to Collegetown, so after a day at the park, you can enjoy lunch somewhere that is less than five minutes away. The park is huge! It probably takes close to 45 minutes to walk the whole thing. But, it’s definitely worth it. And if walking isn’t your thing? There are tons of motorized scooters that surround the park that are super easy to navigate and also just extremely fun. Cascades is perfect for a date, a day with friends to catch up, coffee talks and did I mention the sunset? Simply stunning. But don’t just take my word for it. Go see it yourself!

For an Art-Loving, Thrift-Story Shopping Person: Railroad Sqaure Art Park

I have to be honest and say that I’m really not all that into art, but Railroad Square Art Park changed my mind. The art there is not your typical painting. The walls of the building are filled with murals and art pieces that represent something significant or great about Tallahassee. More than anything, walking by all of the artwork feels like a personal, intimate experience. You get an entire glimpse of the city simply through images. The art truly does tell a thousand words. As if that’s not enough, the square is lined with long rows of little boutiques and thrift shops. The thrift shops usually have vintage FSU or Florida A&M University clothes, which I am obsessed with. The boutiques also hold cute, unique clothing pieces that are mostly inexpensive. Even if you don’t shop or buy anything, or if you are not into art, I promise this art park is perfect for a simple, nice day outside.

For My Coffee Lovers: Black Dog Cafe

listening to podcast
Photo by Juja Han from Unsplash
I don’t have much to say about this cafe except that you need to go there because the coffee and food speak for themselves. Did I mention it looks out on the beautiful Lake Ella?  Please go there for a coffee date, a day to read or even do homework. You will never want to leave. 

For Those Seeking Adventure: Tallhassee Segway Tours

Personally, going on one of these segway tours is something I have on my list for things I want to do before I graduate, so if someone does try it, please let me know how it goes. Anyways, now I’m going to brag about what it has to offer for a second. The tour goes through the Gaines Street Art District, FSU campus, past the Capitol, historical areas downtown and more. It is an all-in-one adventure that seems to be worth taking.  

Writer’s Choice: Paiting With a Twist 

painting pallete
Photo by Sarah Brown from Unsplash
I want to say I saved the best for last, but that would be a little biased. But really, I saved the best for last! Painting with a twist is so much fun. You don’t have to be an artist to attend one of these sessions. They walk you step-by-step through the replication of the painting of your choice. You also get fun treats on the side. Each one offers different things, but the one I attended was also a bakery and gave us the most delicious cupcakes. For those 21 and older, I know some also do it with wine! Painting with a twist is seriously the most relaxing thing you can do with the people you love. It’s a time spent with lots of laughter as you attempt to become an artist and the best of all, bonding time. I cannot recommend it enough that you try this. And to prove how much I want you guys to get a feel for what you’re in for, cue the insertion of an embarrassing photo of me from 2017 below at one of these classes.

Want to see more HCFSU? Be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on InstagramTwitterTikTokYoutube and Pinterest!

a nursing major with a passion for writing :)!!
Her Campus at Florida State University.