So, you’ve finally gotten your tickets to the big rivalry game this weekend, and you’ll soon be on your way to Tally—congratulations and good luck on that eight-hour drive. We’re guessing with the high percentage of out-of-state students that you may be one of the many frantically trying to figure out how to make the most out of your stay in NoFlo. Luckily, we have some friends at FSU who can give you the inside scoop.
Rivalry Music Festival
Friday November 1
4-10pm
18 and over
$45 – $100
First off, the Rivalry Music Festival is going to be the biggest and most popular event of the weekend (other than the game, of course). It takes place right in Tally, through the afternoon into the night and features artists like Major Lazor, Tritonal, and Carnage. It’s supposed to be a great time and it’s relatively cheap for what it’s worth ($45 GA). You can find out more information and buy tickets on the event’s website here.
Downtown Getdown
Friday November 1
6:00 to 10:00 PM
Adams Street Commons
Downtown Tallahassee
This might be the more family friendly alternative to the music festival but it’s a pre-game tradition nonetheless. This Friday’s band is ACME Rhythm and Blues and there is free public parking.
Miami v Florida State
Saturday November 2
8pm
Bobby Bowden Field at Doak Campbell Stadium
Obviously the main attraction of the weekend is the football game. For those of you who don’t have a ticket to the game but still want to participate to the fullest, there are a multitude of bars in close proximity to campus that will, no doubt, be playing the game (probably on multiple screens). Bullwinkle’s Saloon is known by the FSU community as the happening place for college social life and activity; all the better, it is a short walking distance from campus. Another good option is A.J. Sports Bar and Grill. 50 HD TVs and state-of-the-art surround sound will make you forget you’re not at the stadium.
Bullwinkle’s Saloon
620 W. Tennessee St.
Tallahassee, FL 32304
(850) 224-0651
Speaking of Bullwinkle’s, this is apparently the place to be. Their website boasts being voted the best bar in Tally 20 consecutive times. Friday and Saturday both feature a $10 AYCD special. Plus there is usually a live band playing the classics.
Sunday Brunch
Fighting a hangover during an 8-hour road trip is something you most likely want to avoid. Grab some brunch before you head home to make it through the drive. We recommend Avenue, open from 9:30-3:30 for brunch. Try their signature Big Louie Bloody Mary but call ahead for reservations. There’s also The Mockingbird that serves $4 mimosas and classic brunch favorites like Eggs Benedict and Steak and Eggs starting at 11am. A little less traditional option would be Kool Beanz Café, whose motto is “EAT, DRINK, & TALK LOUD – YOU’RE AMONG FRIENDS!” Their brunch menu offers dishes like Banana-Rum French Toast and a Full English Breakfast – fried bread and all.
Avenue: 115 East Park Avenue, Tallahassee, Fla. Phone: (850) 224-0115
The Mockingbird: 1225 North Monroe Street,
Tallahassee, FL 32303 phone: (1-850) 222-4956
Kool Beanz Café: 921 Thomasville Road
Tallahassee, Florida 32303
Phone:(850) 224-2466
Here are a few more places worth mentioning:
Nature locations
Leon Sinks
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
Bear Paw
The Rez
Landis Green
Restaurants
Mellow Mushroom
Gaines St. Pies
The Front Porch
Momo’s Pizza
“Monks” – Wells Brothers Bar and Grill
Voodoo Dogs
Lucy and Leo’s
Guthrie’s
Nightlife
Alchemy
Midtown Filling Station
Collegetown
Shopping
Gaines St.
Collegetown
Whether you’re a die-hard football fan, or simply going to Tally for the Rivalry Weekend experience, the vibrant community on and off-campus is easily conducive to getting what you want out of the trip. We know it may seem outrageous to spend sixteen hours of traveling time just for a weekend, but if you make the most out of it (maybe with some of the tips from above, hint, hint), your trip will be worthwhile and something to brag to your friends about for weeks to come. Oh, and you’ll also get to experience first hand our ‘Canes trampling those sorry Seminoles. #sorrynotsorry
words_kc pietro and nicole vila. illustration_megan mccrink.