#explorefsu

by Caitlin Peshek (@cpeshh)

Finding a table at Club Stroz is likely causing you as much stress as your actual midterms. Follow my coffee shop study guide to find the alternative thats right for you! PSA: I am no coffee expert, but I call ‘em like a see ‘em.

All Saints (a.k.a the night owl): All Saints is conveniently located on Railroad Ave and provides what college students need most: time. The eclectic cafe is open 24/7, making it the perfect place to pull an all-nighter. After just a few visits, the mismatched furniture and busy decor will be something you grow to love. (P.S. they also have vegan food)

Catalina Cafe (a.k.a. the cute one): Catalina Cafe is a mix of sweet and sassy. This local cafe has 3 locations, but most students frequent the one on Gaines. They have an array of delicious specialty drinks and fresh baked treats, and plenty of outside seating for those sunny Tallahassee days.  

Calvin’s Coffee House (a.k.a. the hidden gem): Many walk by Calvin’s, but most never notice it or venture inside. Well, you should. Calvin’s is a great place to study while you’re on campus, especially if you want to escape the crowds at Starbucks or Dunkin. The environment is casual and the couches comfy. Plus, you don’t even have to give up your hard-won campus parking spot.  

Black Dog Cafe (a.k.a. the conversationalist): Black Dog is fantastic, the customer service is great. On the weekends, they turn off the wifi to encourage conversation without distractions. They have two locations, Lake Ella and Railroad Square, but I prefer the Lake Ella location because of the view. Another plus is they are open later than most coffee shops; definitely worth checking out. 

Lucky Goat Coffee Co. (a.k.a. the fairest of them all): Almost everyone in Tallahassee has heard of Lucky Goat, or seen their stickers on restaurant windows in town. They are serious about their beans, and it shows. Although the location is farther from campus, the drive is worth it. The shop is cozy and chic, with plenty of seating inside and out. (P.S. Their cold brew is amazing)

RedEye Coffee (a.k.a. the chai tea queen): RedEye feels like your neighborhood coffee shop, with friendly staff and a warm atmosphere. There’s plenty of study room and the location is a quick drive from campus.They also make a mean chai tea. 

Written by Caitlin Peshek (@cpeshh)

Not having a car in college can be a struggle, but why fight for parking when there’s so much to do within walking distance of campus. #ExploreFSU and the Tallahassee area on foot and check out the following places this week. (All walking times are mapped from the Ogelsby Union). 

1. Have a picnic at Doug Burnett Park on a Sunday afternoon: Burnett Park is the perfect place to relax outside while still being in the center of town. When you’re there, write on the “Before I Die...” wall located in the park. Walking time: 24 minutes

2. Grab a cup of coffee and get some homework done at a local cafe: Some of my favorites include All Saints Cafe, Catalina Cafe, and Calvin’s Coffee House. Walking time: 12 to 22 minutes

3. College Town is a go to option no matter the time of day: College Town has a lot to offer students including dining, shopping, and nightlife. Brooklyn Water Bagel’s coffee is my personal favorite in the area (get the Cubsta)! Walking time: approx. 15 minutes

4. Spend an evening with your friends at First Friday: Railroad Square Art Park, just off of Gaines Street is a vibrant and growing area of town. There are cafes, shops, art galleries and more in the area, ranging from rock climbing to a comic book store. On the first Friday of every month, the stores and restaurants in and around Railroad Square stay open late for people to enjoy. The event includes art, live music, food, and shopping. It is definitely something that you should add to your “before I graduate” bucket list. Walking time: 28 minutes

5. Jam out to some local entertainment: There are many performances to see on campus and the area nearby. These include shows by the School of Theatre, School of Dance, College of Fine Arts, and various groups on campus. Local and non-local bands also have gigs around town almost every day. Some venues to check out are the Side Bar Theatre off of Railroad Avenue and Club Downunder on campus. Walking time: 1 to 20 minutes