The Ultimate Guide to Parents Weekend
From where to eat dinner to the best places to get a clear bag, this is your guide to having the best weekend of the season.
It happens every year during football season as parades of cars and smiling faces flood the city — it’s Parents Weekend. Whether you’re a parent coming to visit your child at university or a student searching for ways to entertain your family, we’ve got you covered. Tallahassee is flush with amazing treasures to uncover if you’re willing to venture away from campus and explore what our wonderful city has to offer.
College involves a lot of fast food and late-night eats. When family is in town, you want to sit down and enjoy the meal and the moment. Parent’s Weekend is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the Capital City’s varied cuisines.
BREAKFAST
Canopy Road Cafe
View this post on Instagram
Multiple Locations | Hours Vary | Best of Tallahassee Winner 2017 | $$
A Tallahassee breakfast staple, Canopy Road Cafe has everything from savory omelets to creative pancakes.
The Egg Cafe and Eatery
View this post on Instagram
3740 Austin Davis Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32308
(850) 765-0703 | 7 a.m.–2 p.m. | $
Hit up this fun and fast brunch hub serving many kinds of pancakes, omelets and bloody marys.
Bada Bean
View this post on Instagram
2500 Apalachee Parkway #B
(850) 562-2326 | 7:30 a.m.–3 p.m. | $
This casual coffee shop with health-conscious options is great for quick and delicious food.
The Lunchbox
View this post on Instagram
295 N. Magnolia Drive
(850) 942-9766 | 6:30 a.m.–2:15 p.m. | $
This quaint diner is perfect for early risers who want a taste of home.
SoDOUGH Baking Co.
View this post on Instagram
1306 Thomasville Road
(850) 765-8991 | Hours vary | $
This new spot in midtown is the perfect place to grab a locally baked goody. You’re going to be begging to get your hands on their doughnuts and coffee.
Uptown Cafe
View this post on Instagram
1325 Miccosukee Road
(850) 219-9800 | Hours vary | $
A comfy spot for all-American breakfast, lunch and all-day brunch — including sandwiches and salads.
Olean’s Cafe
View this post on Instagram
1605 S. Adams St.
(850) 521-0259 | Hours vary, closed Sundays | $
This spot is all about classic soul food. Pick up breakfast or lunch, and your taste buds will thank you.
Cafe Taverna
View this post on Instagram
1019 N. Monroe St.
(850) 999-8203 | Hours vary | $$
Think classic Southern food and a Latin twist. This place will have you rethinking your breakfast favorites.
Catalina Cafe
View this post on Instagram
Multiple locations | Hours vary | $
This local favorite is a cozy spot that sells freshly roasted coffee, muffins and sandwiches.
Grove Market Cafe
View this post on Instagram
1370 Market St., Suite No. 1
(850) 894-5060 | 7:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. | $-$$
This new spot is already becoming a popular breakfast location. They offer a fresh take on comfort foods and grab-and-go deli options.
LUNCH
Pho 7
View this post on Instagram
2121 W. Pensacola St.
(850) 385-7467 | 11 a.m.–10 p.m. | $
This Vietnamese restaurant is a hidden gem amongst students and locals. They know — like we do — nothing is better than a big bowl of pho.
Bandidos Burritos
View this post on Instagram
910 Lake Bradford Road
(850) 576-3303 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m. | $
This is the perfect place for good tacos at a low price. Don’t forget to catch their dollar taco special from 4:20 p.m.–7:20 p.m.
Wells Brothers
View this post on Instagram
1710 W. Tharpe St.
(850) 942-6665 | 11 a.m.–10 p.m. | $
Enjoy a copious burger menu that includes design-your-own options and creative combinations.
Momo’s Pizza
View this post on Instagram
Multiple locations | Hours vary | $
With slices as big as your head, this place has a cult following. Have a big family? This place is perfect. You can enjoy their XL pizza that’s so big, it could feed a soccer team.
Midtown Caboose
View this post on Instagram
1406 N. Meridian Road
(850) 521-1933 | 11 a.m.–10 p.m. | $
A laid-back, railroad-themed spot with late hours serving inventive, eclectic sandwiches and burgers.
Merv’s
View this post on Instagram
825 Railroad Ave.
(850) 765-5222 | 9 a.m.–3 p.m. | $
Get your melts at Merv’s and enjoy grilled cheese sandwiches with shaded outdoor picnic tables.
Jasmine Cafe
View this post on Instagram
109 E. College Ave.
(850) 681-6868 | Hours vary | $$
Looking for a fresh bite for lunch. Jasmine cafe, right up the street from campus has delicious bowls, sushi and more.
Cabo’s Island Grill and Bar
View this post on Instagram
1221 Apalachee Pkwy, Tallahassee, FL 32301
(850) 878-7707 | Hours vary | $
Get spicy for lunch. Enjoy Cabo’s wide menu of Mexican & American dishes offered in a brightly colored surf-themed setting.
Coosh’s Bayou Rouge
View this post on Instagram
6267 Old Water Oak Road No. 101
(850) 894-4110 | Hours vary | Best of Tallahassee Winner 2017 | $$
Have a taste of Louisiana right here in town. Since 2001, they’ve been serving Cajun specials, seafood and po’boys.
Bird’s Aphrodisiac Oyster Shack
View this post on Instagram
325 N. Bronough St.
(850) 222-1075 | Hours vary | $$
Known for their no-frills seafood and burgers, Bird’s also has karaoke and comedy nights. One of Tallahassee’s hidden gems.
DINNER
Andrew’s Capital Grill & Bar
View this post on Instagram
228 S. Adams St.
(850) 222-3444 | 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m. | $$
A veteran in the Tallahassee restaurant game and right in the heart of downtown, Andrew’s has everything you want in a dinner spot.
Bella Bella Italian Restaurant
View this post on Instagram
123 E. 5th Ave.
(850) 412-1114 | Hours vary | Best of Tallahassee Winner 2017 | $$
The perfect Italian spot to take the family. With ambiance, quirky decorations and outdoor seating, it’s a great spot to relax and enjoy good food.
Kool Beanz Cafe
View this post on Instagram
921 Thomasville Road
(850) 224-2466 | Hours vary | Best of Tallahassee Winner 2017 | $$
This cool and colorful is restaurant serving up eclectic American food with flair. Perfect for a venture into midtown during a night out.
Masa
View this post on Instagram
1650 N. Monroe St.
(850) 727-4183 | Hours vary | Best of Tallahassee Winner 2017 | $$
Enjoy Asian-fusion cuisine and sushi and this local favorite.
Madison Social
View this post on Instagram
705 S. Woodward Ave. No. 101
(850) 894-6276 | 11:30 a.m.–2 a.m. | Best of Tallahassee 2017 | $$
With a cult following, Madso is the perfect place for dinner and not too far from campus. Bring the family and the dog and enjoy the outdoor seating and good food.
Table 23
View this post on Instagram
1215 Thomasville Road
(850) 329-2261 | Hours vary | Best of Tallahassee Winner 2017 | $$
Enjoy Southern cooking with a twist under the twinkling lights and ambiance of the road-front patio.
Food Glorious Food
View this post on Instagram
1950 Thomasville Road
(850) 224-9974 | 5:30 p.m.–9 p.m. | Best of Tallahassee Winner 2017 | $$$
A top-notch restaurant selling top-notch food, including seasonal seafood fare, steaks, lamb and duck.
The Edison
View this post on Instagram
470 Suwannee St.
(850) 765-9771 | Hours vary | $$$
Sitting pretty in Cascades Park, The Edison has quickly become a local favorite, and it’s not hard to see why.
Backwoods Bistro
View this post on Instagram
1 E. Tennessee St.
(850) 320-6345 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m. | $$
Enjoy live music and Southern-influenced comfort food at this laid-back restaurant.
Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille
View this post on Instagram
301 S. Bronough St.
(850) 222-3976 | 11 a.m.–11 p.m. | Best of Tallahassee Winner 2017 | $$
Serving up classic Cajun food, Harry’s brings the Big Easy to Tallahassee. It’s a long standing favorite that is perfect for families.
EXPLORE THE CITY AND SIGHTS
Florida State University and Florida A&M University have gorgeous lush campuses, but those aren’t the only sights in town. Not sure what to do outside of the football game and campus tour? Don’t fret — this city has plenty to offer, whether you’re visiting a local park or patronizing a local business. You and your family are bound to have a great time.
Parks
Cascades Park
View this post on Instagram
1001 S. Gadsden St.
24 hours | Free admission
This local park below downtown is the perfect venue for concerts, picnics, a brief walk and more. You can enjoy both a meal and nature at The Edison on their outdoor patio. Bring little ones to play on the playground or run through the mini waterpark.
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
View this post on Instagram
3540 Thomasville Road
(850) 487-4556 | 8 a.m.–Sunset | $6 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.
With stunning grounds and flower displays, as Maclay Gardens has plenty to capture — so be sure to bring your camera. The botanical garden is full of picturesque moments as you enjoy bird-watching, the reflection pool and the secret garden.
Tom Brown Park
View this post on Instagram
443-557 Easterwood Drive
7 a.m.–9 p.m. | Free admission
Tom Brown Park will appeal to anyone with its numerous outdoor activities. Offerings include offer a BMX track, baseball fields, playgrounds, mountain bike trails and more. You can also relax, walk around or fish at multiple lakes.
Lake Ella
View this post on Instagram
North Monroe Street and Lake Ella Drive
24 Hours | Free admission
A 10-minute drive from campus, Lake Ella is a beautiful place to take a quick stroll. Famous for their multiple cottages that surround the lake, it’s a cute spot to shop, grab coffee or enjoy a scoop of ice cream.
The Rez
View this post on Instagram
3226 Flastacowo Road
Thurs.–Sun. Noon -7 p.m. | Free to current FSU students; $3 for adults
The FSU Rez is a park the whole family can enjoy. With only a small entry fee for non-FSU students, it’s the perfect spot to spend kayaking and paddleboarding on Lake Bradford, lay in hammocks on the beach or test yourself on the Challenge Course 50 feet in the air.
Family Friendly Activities
Tallahassee Rock Gym
View this post on Instagram
629 Industrial Drive
(850) 224-7625 | Monday–Friday: Noon–10 p.m., Saturday: 2–10 p.m., Sunday: 1–9 p.m.
This indoor rock-climbing wall welcomes all climbers, from beginners to experts. With no experience or gear needed, bring the family to the Rock Gym for a little adventure.
AR Workshop
View this post on Instagram
1950 Thomasville Road, Suite J
(850) 810-3052 | Register for a class
Always wanted to get crafty and learn how to make those DIY home decorations that you see on Pinterest? Then go to AR Workshop and have a fun time with friends and family creating a décor piece for your home or dorm.
22nd Floor Capitol Observatory and Gallery
View this post on Instagram
400 South Monroe Street
(855) 488-6167 | Free admission | Monday-Friday 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Going to the capitol is a must when visiting Tallahassee. Take a walk inside the building and see our politicians in action. If you’re looking for a breathtaking view of Tallahassee, then go up to the 22nd floor for a panoramic view of the city.
Challenger Learning Center
View this post on Instagram
200 S. Duval St.
(850) 645-7827 | Monday- Friday: 9:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Sunday Noon–9 p.m.
The 32,000-square-foot facility creates a fun and positive learning experience in science and technology. Challenger offers a mission stimulator, hands-on equipment, a 3D theatre and a digital dome planetarium.
Breakout Games
View this post on Instagram
1891 Capital Circle N.E., No. 8
(850) 583-2201 | Friday–Saturday 10 a.m.–Midnight, Sunday Noon–11 p.m.
Breakout Games is an exciting place to take a group and solve a mystery. You’ll have an exhilarating experience with the clock ticking as you look for clues, try to solve riddles and puzzles — and escape!
Where To Get Gear For The Game
In need of a shirt for the big game? Forgot about the clear bag rule? Plenty of local boutiques and shops will get you dressed and ready for the game in no time.
Barefoot Campus Outfitter
View this post on Instagram
619 S. Woodward Ave. No. 104
(850) 999-6105 | Hours vary
The perfect store to find all of your FSU gear and accessories. Located in CollegeTown, everyone in the family can find something to wear for the game.
Walter Green Boutique
View this post on Instagram
1817 Thomasville Road
(850) 999-6105 | Hours vary
Walter Green has cute and trendy garnet-and-gold apparel for women. This boutique offers clothes, shoes and jewelry to put together the perfect outfit to represent FSU. They also sell clothes for any other event on your weekend schedule.
Trending Now
View this post on Instagram
1005 W. Pensacola St.
(850) 765-8807 | 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
A 5-minute walk to the stadium, you can find your last-minute game outfit here. Their store is all about supporting you as you search for that FSU gameday outfit.
Alumni Hall
View this post on Instagram
1817 Thomasville Road, No. 250
(850) 425-1006 | Hours vary
Bring the whole family for a one-stop shop for all things FSU. Alumni Hall has a wide selection of ’Noles gear for men and women of all ages.
Rebels’ Midtown Boutique
View this post on Instagram
1950 Thomasville Road, Suite I
(850)-597-7456 | Hours vary
In search of a clear, stylish bag to take to the game? Look no further. Rebels’ Midtown Boutique offers trendy clear side purses for you to wear, as well as cute outfits to look your best this weekend.
