College students looking for a fun night in Tallahassee don’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re into dancing, live music or just grabbing drinks with friends, there are plenty of budget-friendly options around the city. From weekly drink specials to live entertainment, here are some of the best nightlife spots for students on a budget.
One of the most popular spots is Top Flite, a nightclub known for its music, good vibes and strong drinks. The cover charge is about $20, but for many, it’s a price worth paying for a great night out.
“I love going to Top Flite,” said Florida A&M University student Cherish Glenn. “The drinks are really good, and the atmosphere is always fun.”
For students who prefer a more relaxed setting, The Bark is a great option. This vegetarian restaurant and bar offers homemade food, craft cocktails and rotating drink specials. The venue, often described as a “fine dive bar,” features a casual, welcoming environment that attracts a diverse crowd. It’s open until midnight most nights, making it a great spot to grab late-night drinks or catch a live performance.
If you’re 21 and older, Bullwinkle’s is a go-to spot, especially on Thursday nights. With a $12 cover, patrons can enjoy unlimited drinks all night—a deal that’s hard to beat. Similarly, Potbelly’s offers an all-you-can-drink special for $20 on Thursdays, making it another hotspot for students looking to maximize their night-out budget.
For those looking for a great deal earlier in the week, Township’s “Two-Dollar Tuesday” is the perfect midweek pick. Every Tuesday, the bar offers $2 drinks, making it one of the most affordable places to grab a drink in Tallahassee. The lively atmosphere and affordable drinks draw in plenty of students looking to unwind after class.
If you want something beyond the usual bar and club scene, Railroad Square Art District’s First Friday is a great alternative. On the first Friday of every month, local artists, musicians and vendors come together for a lively event featuring open galleries, live music, food and drinks. The event is free to attend and provides a different kind of nightlife experience—one that’s perfect for people-watching, exploring local art and enjoying a casual night out.
Another fun and affordable way to spend a Friday night is line dancing at The Moon. For just $10, attendees can take a quick dance lesson at 8 p.m., followed by a full night of country line dancin
g starting at 9 p.m. Even if you’ve never tried line dancing before, the welcoming crowd and fun atmosphere make it a great experience.
For live music lovers, Tallahassee’s underground music scene offers some of the best affordable entertainment in town. Local organizations like 96 Nation, the Skateboarding Club, TMIC and Stitch regularly host backyard shows for just $5-10, giving students access to live performances from up-and-coming artists.
“There are always cool backyard shows happening around Tallahassee,” said Sage, a member of Stitch. “Different organizations put them together, and it’s a great way to see live music for really cheap.”
With so many affordable nightlife options, students in Tallahassee don’t have to spend a fortune to have a good time. Whether it’s dancing at a club, enjoying live music, sipping cocktails or checking out a local art event, there’s no shortage of ways to have fun on a budget. By taking advantage of weekly drink specials, free events and unique experiences, students can enjoy everything Tallahassee nightlife has to offer—without emptying their wallets.