A Florida State game day is as good as it gets.
Fun tailgates, rich tradition, and a great football team. The parking lot turns into a sea of red and gold by breakfast time, as cars fill the lot and students and alumni flock to their favorite tailgate hubs.
But gameday isn't all about tailgating - Florida State's storied program has rich, gameday traditions, many of which take place closer to game time.
When you come to town for a gameday, make sure to check out some of the best FSU gameday sites and activies...
Gameday Traditions
Osceola and Renegade
Before the kickoff of each home game, Osceola rides down the field on his horse named Renegade, and plants a flaming spear at midfield.
The tradition began nearly 40 yeras ago against the Sooners, and all of the costumes/clothing have been approved by the Seminole Indian Tribe of Florida. It's a sensational pre-game ritual and a great way to get hyped for the game!
War Chant / Tomahawk Chop
An unmistakable sound, and incredible scene - words can't do it justice...
It's one of the most legendary sounds in college football, and is instantly unforgettable for anyone who comes to FSU for a game.
No one really knows how this tradition got started (though there are plenty of entertaining stories).
Downtown Getdown
The downtown getdown is exactly what it sounds like. It's a combination of a pep rally and block party that takes place... downtown, of course! The bar scene is rowdy, live music is everywhere you turn, PLUS it's a family-friendly atmosphere, too.
Make sure to check out this sea of Gold and Garnet the Friday night before any home game!
Local Attractions
Tallahassee isn't a one-trick city, and has much to offer outside of the university.
If you get in to town early on Friday (or are dragging your feet about leaving Sunday), check out some of Tallahassee's popular local attractions. They're a great way to stretch your legs, keep your kids engaged, and experience the city!
Walk Around Historic Downtown
You don't have to be a history buff to enjoy historic downtown Tallahassee.
It's full of neat landmarks like the Capitol Complex (with the full restored FLorida Florida Historic Capitol Museum), the Museum of Florida History, the John G. Riley Museum of African American History & Culture, and the breath-taking Park Avenue Historic District.
With tons of history, culture and everything in between, you're bound to walk out of the area knowing more than you did coming into it.
Goodwood Musuem and Gardens
To get a sense of the stunning Antebellum architecture, check out Good Museum and Gardens.
This estate was built in the 1830s, and spanned across 2,400 acres of land. In 1911, the house underwent a major renovation, during which its style and elgance was restored. The house now sits on about 160 acres of sprawling land.
Come for a tour of the 170 year old main house, and walk through the property's beautiful gardens!
Bradley's Country Store
Bradley's Country Store is a national historic landmark and staple of Tallahassee.
Still looking much like it did at is opening in 1927, they offer homemade smoked sausage and some of the best ground grits you could imagine.
And if you're in Tallahassee around late November, check out their "Old Fashioned Fun Day" the Saturday before Thanksgiving. It's been a Bradley's tradition since 1970, and will have plenty of fun for the whole family.
Getting Around/Transportation
Airports
Tallahassee International Airport: Tallahassee International Airport is conveniently located only 5 miles from campus. It's a smaller airport, but services many of the major airlines, including American and Delta.
Jacksonville International Airport : Jacksonville International Airport is further from campus (about 2.5 hours), but is often significantly cheaper.
Parking Tips:
Parking can be stressful, but check out this map that highlights some popular lots: https://transportation.fsu.edu/sites/default/files/media/doc/FootballGamedayParkingMap2014.pdf
Ride Sharing Services:
Uber and Lyft are the most popular options in Tallahassee, but if you don't have either of those two apps, I would recommend 1) joining the 21st century, and 2) checking out these taxi services:
Plus, there's always Campus Bus Service, which runs throughout campus, as well as to the areas immediately surrounding it.
AND DON'T FORGET! The best way to stay close to any of these great Tallahassee activities is with a home rental close to the stadium...
Did we miss anything? Any recommendations? Let us know! Email info@rentlikeachampion.com
