Tailgating in Tallahassee

Looking for the best places to tailgate and enjoy game day in Tallahassee? With two football teams, the Florida State Seminoles and the Florida A&M Rattlers, fall is the best time to enjoy Florida’s capital city and this exciting college town. Here are just a few of the experiences you won’t want to miss! 

Events

Some of the most fun happens when you start your game day weekend early. Start your football experience on Friday night at the block party right in the center of College Town. It is the official tailgate event of Florida State football, and features live music along with onsite vendors and special appearances. You can join the Seminole family every Friday before home football games from 5 to 10 pm at Collegetown!

If you’re looking for a classic tailgating in Tallahassee experience, head to the Main Campus Intramural Field located right on St. Augustine. It is 810 yards away, only a 10 minute walk to the stadium. This location is first-come-first-serve and opens 5 hours prior to kick off, so make sure to get you and your crew there on time! For more information, click here to see all the rules and regulations for tailgating. 

Don’t forget the tailgating experience at FAMU! There is no better time to visit than their homecoming weekend. FAMU offers a fantastic homecoming parade to celebrate the University and football team. The campus also offers on-site tailgates for $50 a spot so you and your crew don’t have to go far. 

Bars

Speaking of College Town, make sure to check out Madison Social and Township for a place to hang out before and during the game. They have outside seating, wrap around bars, and flat screen TVs so you don’t miss even a moment of the big game. Whether it is a Madison Mule, a bucket of High Noons, or Rum Wit It, their specialty hand crafted cocktails have you covered for game day. You’re so close to the stadium, you’ll hear the roar of the crowd with every touchdown. 

For a sports bar experience, catch the game at Cancun’s Sports Bar. From drafts to signature cocktails, and tons of specialty drinks, you are sure to have something that will keep you satisfied. With flat screen TVs on every wall and every angle, you’ll never miss a second of the game. In case it gets slammed, keep in mind that there are two locations in Tallahassee, one on West Tennessee and one on West Call Street! 

What’s better than tailgating at Tallahassee’s iconic local bar? Founded in 1994 and deeply rooted in the history of Tallahassee, Potbellys is the ultimate game day experience for both FSU and FAMU. You can’t miss the 300 inch jumbotron right in the middle of the beer garden. It is the perfect place to gather your crew, soak up some sun, and enjoy a mimosa bucket or a speciality sandwich. 

Family Friendly

Are you looking for somewhere a bit more family friendly? The Northtown Getdown, located at Bannerman Crossings in northeast Tallahassee, is a perfect place for you and your family to kick off your weekend and celebrate game day. The getdown is every Friday before FSU home games and starts at 5:30, with kid-friendly activities such as bounce houses, face painting, mini golf and much more. There is a concert that usually goes on from 7-10pm, plus numerous food and drink vendors.  

Railroad Square Art District is also a great place for a family friendly tailgating experience in Tallahassee. With over 70 shops, restaurants, and small businesses, it is the perfect place to walk around before game day. Railroad Square Craft House has brunch from 11am to 3pm and is also open for lunch and dinner from  3pm to 12am. They have a vast outdoor area with seating and games for everyone to enjoy. 

Here’s what you need to know:

In case you didn’t know, game day in Tallahassee can get busy! Here is everything you need to know: 

For FSU:

  • Legacy Walk will be open 2 ½ hours prior to kickoff starting at the Heritage Fountain to where the team enters at Gate K. 
  • Don’t know where to park? Click here for a detailed parking map. 
  • All gates to the stadium open 2 hours prior to kickoff.
  • CLEAR BAG POLICY! All bags must be clear and no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”.
  • It gets HOT. Don’t forget to put on some sunscreen! 

For FAMU: 

  • Only small personal bags (purses, baby and diaper bags) will be permitted inside Bragg Stadium.
  • Parking lots open four hours prior to kick off.
  • Stadium Parking Gates will open at 3 p.m.
  • Additional game day parking details:  www.famuathletics.com
  • Fan tailgating is allowed in the lots surrounding the stadium.

Whether you’re cheering on the Seminoles or waving on the Rattlers, there’s plenty to celebrate in Florida’s favorite college town and capital city. From low-key, family-friendly locales to high-energy game day experiences, you’re sure to find the perfect Tallahassee tailgating experience for you and your football-loving crew!

Looking for a post-game day breakfast? Make sure to check out some of Tallahassee’s best brunch locations here!