About Potbelly’s
Potbelly’s opened in 1994 and soon became a downtown Tallahassee institution. It’s located at 459 West College Avenue (the corner of College and Macomb), just steps from Florida State University’s campus. Over time it has expanded into a multi-room complex: an indoor bar/dance floor, an attached lounge called the “Painted Lady,” and a large outdoor stage area (“The Garden”) out back. The venue has five separate bars and about a dozen big-screen TVs, so you can watch games or videos from almost anywhere inside. What stands out is how Potbelly’s blends college-bar partying with live music. On game days and Friday afternoons it throws huge Seminole tailgate parties – crowds form lines around the block for its famous early-evening happy-hour specials and cheap drink deals. But on any given weeknight or concert night it’s also a live-music club. Its stage has hosted local college band nights and touring acts alike. The mix of five bars, multiple dance floors/stages, and a huge outdoor screen on football Saturdays gives Potbelly’s an energetic, eclectic vibe that locals love.
Events and Programming
Monday & Wednesday (“Mischief”): These midweek party nights draw an EDM-loving crowd looking to kick off the week early. The bar plays top dance and electronic music, usually with local DJs or college-personality DJs. Entry is typically free for anyone 21 and up (occasional guest list events aside), and drink specials run all night. It’s mainly a club-night atmosphere rather than a concert.Thursday (“Purgatory”): Potbelly’s famous Thursday night. For a fixed cover (often around $20), guests get essentially all-you-can-drink well cocktails and domestic beers until midnight. The bar staff walks around doling out free shots to the crowd. A live DJ spins trap, hip-hop, or EDM throughout the night. It’s like a street party indoors – one of the rowdiest nights of the week. Despite being a weekday, Thursdays feel more intense than Fridays because of the free-drink gimmick.Friday (Happy Hour Kickoff): No event embodies Potbelly’s reputation more than Friday. Doors open in the late afternoon (around 5pm) for their “world-famous” happy hour. Early drink specials are extremely cheap ($1 shots from 5–6pm, $2 drinks 6–7pm, etc.). There is a modest cover charge in the evening (typically $3 for 21+, about $10 for under-21 in past years) to enter after 7pm. Live DJs or themed music play simultaneously in the main bar room, the Painted Lady lounge, and sometimes the outdoor patio, so each area has its own vibe. Hundreds of college students and locals flock in, making it the peak party night. If you want the School-inspired college scene, Friday is the signature event.Saturday (GameDay Tailgate): On home-game Saturdays Potbelly’s hosts an epic tailgate. Starting midday, the entire Garden patio is set up for a sports event: they have 20+ TVs (including a 300″ projector screen outside) tuned to the game, giant drink specials, and often food trucks or barbecue grills. After the game or for non-game Saturdays, the party turns back into a concert or DJ night on the main stage. This event is “seasonal” (only during FSU football/basketball season), so be sure to check if a game is on. Though it’s an afternoon affair, the bar stays open late – it’s famous for blurring into a full Saturday-night concert once the tailgate ends.
In addition to these weekly themed nights, Potbelly’s operates as a concert venue on most weekends. Touring bands and clubs often book Thursday–Saturday schedules here. The range of music is very broad: acts have included EDM artists like PEEKABOO, electronic duos like ShipWrek, hip-hop performers like Waka Flocka Flame and Sean Kingston, jam-rock groups, country-soul bands, and more. Ticket prices vary widely; smaller shows might just have a minor cover charge, while bigger name acts might command $15–$30 or more (with students sometimes paying less than general public). Typically you’ll find a lineup listed on the venue’s event page. Doors for concerts usually open around 8–9pm (with music starting shortly after). In short, Potbelly’s programming is a mix of club nights (often free or cheap entry) and ticketed live music shows, ensuring there’s always something happening.
Tickets and Booking
Buying Tickets: Only use official sources for tickets. Check Potbelly’s official website or event listings for each show. Promoters often advertise concerts on social media with a link to the venue’s ticket sale. Major shows may have email presales or fan-code sales – subscribing to their newsletter or following local radio often gets you early access. Otherwise you can buy tickets online up until the night of the show. If an event isn’t sold out in advance, you can also pay admission at the door (see “door charges” below).Pricing: Ticket prices depend on the performer. In general, nightly club events carry low cover fees (often \$3–\$10). Concerts by smaller touring bands might be \$10–\$20. Headliner-level acts can run \$25–\$30 or more. Always check the event page; student ID discounts might not be offered, so budget for the standard price. For themed parties (Thursdays/Fridays) you often pay only the flat drink package or a small cover charge as advertised.Advance vs. Door: Tickets for larger shows should be bought early. The venue does not have a permanent box office to sell tickets anytime – advance sales are done online. On show nights, remaining tickets/wristbands are handled at the entry door. If you have a print-at-home or mobile ticket, have it ready along with ID. If not, and the show isn’t sold out, you’ll simply pay the usual cover or show price at the door. When major acts play, don’t count on finding tickets last-minute.Strategies: For popular events (big-name concerts or themed nights), get your ticket on sale day. Follow Potbelly’s official channels for any student discounts or contests. If a mobile ticket service is used, book quickly as seats may be limited. Some visitors even call the venue’s office number during business hours to check on ticket availability. The safest approach is to treat Potbelly’s shows like any hot concert – add alert, join mailing lists, and buy early.Door Rules: When arriving, be prepared to show your ID for age verification. Age limits vary: 18+ is common for most shows, but 21+ is strictly enforced for Painted Lady events or X-rated shows. Cover charges must be paid in cash or card before entry if it’s not in your advance ticket. If a show sells out in advance, the door WILL close and no more entry is allowed. Keep tickets secure; duplicates or screenshots are generally accepted, but have the credit card you used on hand if asked for verification.
Insider tip: If you plan to attend a popular show, arrive at least 30 minutes before doors open. This gives you time to park or get in line. Also consider joining any venue membership groups (if available) for presale perks. And remember that Potbelly’s often coordinates tickets and guest lists with student organizations – sometimes you can get a small discount or free pass through a university group if the event is advertised as part of a campus activity.
Seating and Layout
General Layout: Potbelly’s is essentially one big standing-room club. There are no fixed seats for most shows. In the main room, the stage is at one end with a large open dance floor in front of it. The Painted Lady is a connected side lounge with its own small stage and some couches and bar stools (often used for smaller acts or chill-out area). Behind the building is The Garden – an open-air fenced patio with another stage. All three areas are mostly open or have only scattered tables, so even “seated” areas just mean bar stools rather than reserved chairs.Best Viewpoints: For concerts, the best spots are up near the stage on the main floor. Here you’ll see and hear the band clearly. Even without seats, the front-center area is usually the most fun for an up-close experience. If the crowd is packed, you can also stand on steps or ledges along the sides for a slightly elevated view. If you prefer a break, the bars along the back or sides can be more relaxed (though your view will be farther away). The Painted Lady lounge provides some seating but a smaller stage – it’s great if you want to sit at a table with friends and still hear music at a softer level.Sound Quality: The venue’s system is loud and bass-heavy. Lighting effects and subwoofers fill the space, so sound is immersive near the stage but can become muddy farther back. If you’re sensitive to noise, standing slightly away from the speakers (or even stepping into the outdoor patio during a big show) can be easier on the ears. In any case, there are no sound dead zones – you’ll hear something from anywhere in the club. The bartenders or floor staff can usually adjust a little volume if you ask quietly, but generally the band controls the mix.Seating Policy: Everything is general admission. There are no ticketed or reserved seats, even for major concerts. If special VIP or table-service options are offered, that will be explicitly announced for that event (and it usually means paying extra for a booth). Otherwise, count on standing or bar-height bench seating. Near-closing the venue sometimes pulls up a few folding chairs for those still around, but don’t expect permanent chairs.Crowd Flow: With multiple bars and stages, people move freely between areas. The dance floor stays open and there are multiple entries/exits for each room. Even when crowded, you can usually squeeze around – but watch out for uneven flooring or spilled drinks. Personally prescribed: keep an eye on your friends; it’s easy to get separated in the dim lights. There are railings along parts of the stage and staircase landings in the lounge; feel free to lean but don’t block walkways. And of course, the *painted lady* upstairs is quiet by contrast – most crowds stay on the floor.
Getting There and Parking
Address and Driving: Potbelly’s is at 459 W. College Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32301. It’s on College Avenue one block west of Monroe Street (the main north-south artery). If you have GPS, just plug in the full address. By car, note that College Ave is one-way westbound past the bar, and its intersection is right near several red-brick buildings (the state capital complex and FSU’s College of Law area). Use West College, not North, as the street name. In navigation, be aware College Ave near FSU runs out into Pensacola Street further west.Parking: There is no large private lot for fans, but several city parking options are close by. Street parking on College Ave and cross streets runs about \$1/hour (usually with a 2-hour limit, though many meters are free after benchclosing). The city operates two paid garages one block away: the Kleman Plaza Garage (entrance on S. Duval, just south of College Ave) and the College Avenue Garage (behind Escambia Plaza at S. Calhoun & College). These charge roughly \$2 for first hour, \$1 each additional (about \$7/day max), with reduced rates on weekends. Additionally there’s a large surface lot at 725 S. Bronough St (two blocks south) that typically charges a flat \$5–\$10 for events. Expect to pay to park on busy nights. If lots fill, consider paid street permits or ParkMobile apps to find spare spots further out (just make sure to move before meters expire).Public Transit: Tallahassee’s StarMetro bus system serves the area. The Route F (or “Forest” line) runs west on College Ave and stops at W. College & S. Macomb, which is right at Potbelly’s corner. Other nearby lines (such as the Call Street or Gaines Street routes) stop within a block or two. For late-night returns, the StarMetro “NIGHT” bus (nighttime city service) also stops on Macomb. Use the StarMetro trip planner app to check schedules. (As a tip, the FSU campus shuttle can drop off near Monroe & College, a short walk east.)Rideshare/Drop-off: Uber, Lyft and taxis routinely service Potbelly’s. The front entrance is on College Ave; drivers often use the short driveway next to the bar for drop-off (there’s usually room). If coming from I-10 or downtown, rideshares are very convenient and eliminate parking hassles. Most rideshare drivers know this popular nightclub address; if using a cab, Tallahassee’s airport or downtown can dispatch one directly to you. Tip: on very busy nights, specify “College Ave at Macomb Street” to avoid confusion with West College Ave.Walking/Cycling: Potbelly’s is an easy walk from nearby sites. It’s under 10 minutes on foot from the FSU stadium or student union. Many patrons simply park in FSU’s surrounding streets (if a town parking enforcement) and walk one block. The campus-area hotel Aloft Downtown is a short 5-minute walk north. Racks are available outside for bikes, and plenty of students ride; the club routinely sees some locked up against its fence. Sidewalks have good lighting after dark, but wear visible clothing if you bike or skate in.
Inside the Venue
Entry and Security: When you arrive, there will be staff checking IDs. Keep your driver’s license or passport handy – even if the show is 18+, Florida law requires some photo ID for alcohol service. Your bag may be searched as a precaution (nothing inside can be larger than small purse size). If you have advance tickets, have them digital or printed ready. Once you’re let in, keep track of your things; there’s no general coat check at the entrance (although on cold nights sometimes a volunteer coat-check station is set up on a back wall).Bar Service: Inside you’ll find five bars spread throughout the complex. Each bar serves full liquor, beer, mixed drinks and shots. Lines move quickly, but bartenders can only make one or two drinks at a time, so be ready. Most bars take credit/debit cards or cash; if you need cash, there are ATMs on site (with a small fee). It’s courteous to keep a tab on your card or have cash ready to speed up ordering. Tipping well (15-20%) is appreciated on busy nights.Food and Snacks: The venue isn’t a full restaurant, but on many nights there are food options. In particular, Thursday nights often feature food trucks or grills offering tacos, sliders, hot dogs and chips. During FSU tailgates, The Garden patio usually has BBQ pits or fried-stuff stands. Outside of those occasions, your best bet is to eat beforehand (several restaurants are very close by). If you arrive hungry on a normal night, you can order pizza delivery – staff often allow fast-food pizzas to be delivered directly to the club’s back door (just tell the driver to ring the “Staff Only” door). Free water is plentiful at the bars.Atmosphere and Layout: The inside feels like a classic college bar turned concert hall: dim lighting with colorful stage lights, loud music, and people dancing. On weekends it gets very crowded and the air can get warm. The floors are mostly concrete and there are a few staircases up to lounge areas – wear comfortable shoes for dancing. DJs and bands rotate through all areas, so expect music thumping in every corner. You can move freely between the main room, the Painted Lady lounge (which has sofa seating against the wall), and the Garden patio (if outdoors). Restrooms are located off the main bar floors; note that lines can get long during intermissions.Extras: On show nights a small merch table is often set up near the stage entrance, selling band or event T-shirts and EPs. You’ll also find coat hangers or lockers upstairs if needed. The venue provides free Wi-Fi, but it is often slow or blocked by the crowd (cell data tends to work better). Most people just use their phones for photos or texting. Keep in mind: the music usually goes until the official close time (around 2–3am), after which lights come on to clear the floor.
Nearby Amenities
Restaurants: The area around Potbelly’s is full of dining options. A few steps east on College Avenue is a small food court “College Market” with sandwiches and burgers. Walk north to Park Avenue (or one block east to Monroe Street) and you’ll find various cuisine: American bistros (Savour, Eve on Adams), pizza and wings joints, Mexican taquerias, and cafés. Also check Monroe St. for brewpubs and bars with food menus. For a quick bite before the show, popular local spots like Bowden’s Wings & Pizza (2 blocks north) are open late.Bars and Cafés: If you want pre-party drinks, many bars are close. Havana Harry’s (a Cuban-themed bar) is next door. A little further on Monroe, there’s the Warhorse Brewery and the Moon (Irish pub) — all within a 5-minute walk. If coffee or dessert is needed, The Edison (coffee shop) is about 0.3 miles east. In short, you’ll find a little something for everyone within a 0.2–0.5 mile radius.Hotels: The closest hotel is Aloft Tallahassee Downtown (about 0.6 miles north on Monroe St, roughly a 12-minute walk). Other downtown accommodations include the Courtyard/Residence Inn cluster near the transit center (about 0.6 miles east) and a Hampton Inn by the sports complex (northeast). Many national-chain hotels are located 1–2 miles south on Apalachee Parkway if you drive. On heavy event nights the downtown hotels fill up quickly, so plan ahead or consider staying slightly farther if you want easy after-party access.Transportation Hub: The main bus terminal (7th Ave Depot) is about 0.5 miles east — close enough if you prefer a bus connection. Rideshares and taxis are available throughout town. If you need to go to the airport (6 miles south), allow extra travel time at night as traffic can be heavier after big events.
What Makes This Venue Special
Potbelly’s isn’t just another nightclub, it’s a piece of Tallahassee history. In some ways it’s a quintessential college hangout – many alumni will swear they took their first big night out there. For example, country singer Jake Owen famously honed his craft performing Friday nights at Potbelly’s when he was an FSU student. As a city landmark, the bar has hosted thousands of tails, celebrations, and last-call farewells. Its layout is also unique: an old brick building converted into several spaces under one roof, complete with an upstairs lounge and a massive outdoor stage with a jumbotron. You won’t find a football tailgate with a 300″ screen and concert-grade sound system just anywhere.
Moreover, the community’s loyalty is part of what makes it special. Potbelly’s feel is homey: bartender names are familiar, servers remember your drink, and there are photos/promo posters on the walls showing past shows. It’s the place where local success stories are celebrated (many local bands got noticed on its stage) and big city artists feel the Southern warmth. Even if a performer is touring nationally, they often rely on the Potbelly’s crowd because it’s loud and appreciative. This intimate, party-within-history atmosphere is hard to replicate. In short, people love Potbelly’s because it combines nonstop high-energy fun with genuine hometown spirit.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main entrance is level with the sidewalk and has at least one ramp, so wheelchairs can access the indoor space. Inside it’s mostly one floor with wide areas. An ADA-compliant restroom is available on the main floor. If you have special needs, it’s a good idea to arrive early or call ahead so the staff can assist you.ID & Age: Always bring a valid photo ID. By law you need to show your ID to enter (even if the event is 18+, not just 21+). Potbelly’s enforces age limits strictly: most shows are 18 and up (or 21+ if listed). The Painted Lady lounge out back is always 21+ after dark. If under 21, know that even if you have a college ID, the bartenders will card your driver’s license or passport.Dress Code: There’s no formal dress code – feel free to dress casually. College-style attire (jeans, comfy shirt) is common. If you’re planning dinner first, you can wear something nicer, but the bar environment is relaxed. Wear shoes that are ok for dancing or standing a long time. If it’s cold outside, bring a light jacket – the air conditioning can’t keep up with large Friday crowds.Bag Policy: Large backpacks or coolers are not allowed and may be checked. You may bring a small purse or fanny pack. Backpacks and serious “tailgate-style” bags will trigger a full search. Do not bring outside alcohol – that is confiscated. The staff is strict about prohibited items: remember no weapons, no illicit substances, no glass bottles (except sealed water bottles), and no hard coolers.Smoking: Smoking is not allowed inside by Florida law. You can smoke in the outdoor patio area, but never on the dance floor or main bar area. Ashtrays are provided outside. Plan for smoke breaks between sets if needed.Others’ Tips: Arrive early. Avoid waiting until late to show up if you want to get in. Big shows tend to fill by 10pm. Also, keep cash on hand. Although cards are accepted at bars, some smaller cover fees might be taken only in cash. Bring earplugs if you plan to be near the speakers. If you’re with a group, decide on a meeting spot in case you get split up – the sound can be very loud. Remember that after 2am the club closes, so plan your transportation back home accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I purchase tickets to Potbelly’s events?
The safest way is through official channels. Check Potbelly’s website or social media for announcements, which will link to the venue’s ticket page. Big shows often have presales for newsletter subscribers or local radio giveaways. Otherwise you can buy tickets ahead on the listed site, or pay the cover at the door if the show isn’t sold out. Avoid random street scalpers or sketchy sites.
What is the typical price range for covers or tickets at Potbelly’s?
It varies by event. For weekly club nights and happy hours, covers are usually low (often \$3–\$10). Concert tickets range higher: local/regional shows might be \$10–\$20, while a popular touring act could be \$25–\$30 or more. Check each event’s listing — students should be prepared to pay the standard price (under-21 cover can be higher). Big promotional nights might offer drink deals instead of expensive cover.
Does Potbelly’s offer presales or discounts on tickets?
Yes, sometimes. Popular concerts often have pre-sale codes or early-bird tickets for fans. Potbelly’s email newsletter and social accounts will post any presale info. Occasionally student organizations will sell discounted door covers for big shows. Also, arriving early on special theme nights can let you get in for cheaper before peak hours. But if it’s a hit event, don’t count on discounts – plan to pay full price unless explicitly advertised.
Is there a box office at Potbelly’s and can I buy tickets at the door?
There is no fixed box office window. You buy tickets online or through the event links ahead of time. On event nights, any remaining admission is sold at the door as a general cover charge. If you have a reserved ticket, show your confirmation at the entrance. If not, and the show isn’t full, just pay the cover in cash or card at the door. Once the event is sold out, they will close entry.
Are seats reserved or is it general admission?
All Potbelly’s shows are general admission. There are no reserved seats or ticket-specific spots. Patrons stand or find a barstool on a first-come basis. The only exception would be an explicitly advertised VIP/table-service purchase. In practice, arrive early to grab the spot you want by the stage or bar, because everyone is on equal footing otherwise.
What public transportation options serve Potbelly’s?
StarMetro city buses stop right at College Ave & Macomb St, the Potbelly’s corner. The Route F (Forest) line and Route 5 and some others run along College Avenue, so you can get off within a block. After-hours, the “Night” or late-night bus service still serves that area on weekends. Just use StarMetro’s trip planner and aim for the College/Macomb stop – it’s easiest. Otherwise, Tulully cab or rideshare to the same intersection.
What parking options are near Potbelly’s, and how much do they cost?
Street parking is available on College and adjacent streets (meters at about \$1/hour, usually 2-hour limits, free late nights or Sundays in many spots). The nearest garages are the City-owned Kleman Plaza Garage on South Duval and the College Ave Garage on Calhoun – both about a block away. They typically charge around \$2 for the first hour, \$1 each after (with about a \$7 daily max). A big surface lot is at 725 S Bronough (two blocks south) which often uses a flat \$5–\$10 event rate. In peak hours plan to pay to park early or use a rideshare.
Can I get dropped off or use rideshare at Potbelly’s?
Yes. The main entrance faces West College Ave, and there is usually space for a quick drop-off at the curb. Uber/Lyft drivers know the address well (College & Macomb). If you call a taxi, tell them you’re going to 459 W College, which is next to a red-brick building on College. Late at night, picking you up from College Ave or the adjacent Macomb St intersection is safe and convenient. No special ride zone is needed.
Is Potbelly’s wheelchair accessible?
Yes – the venue has been updated for accessibility. The front entrance is ramped (no steps). Once inside, most areas are flat and open. The raised Painted Lady stage has a small step, but the main floor and patio are on one level. An ADA restroom is provided on the main floor. If you have concerns, it’s still wise to get there a bit early or call ahead, but overall Potbelly’s welcomes wheelchair access.
What forms of payment are accepted at Potbelly’s?
The bars accept credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) for drinks and tickets. You can also pay cash for cover fees. If you need cash, Potbelly’s has ATM machines (usually inside, for a fee). Online sales and cover charges are handled by credit card or cash. In practice, bring either cash or card; both work fine, and keep some cash for tipping your bartenders or taxi.
What is the dress code at Potbelly’s?
There is no strict dress code. Come as you are. During the day you’ll see college casual (jeans, T-shirts) and by night people dress a bit nicer (sport shirts or fun t-shirts, nice tops) especially on weekends. Clean and presentable is fine – no ties or heels are required. Since it can get hot inside, many wear short sleeves or light clothing. Avoid anything overly revealing or offensive, and you’ll fit right in.
Are outside cameras or recording allowed?
Yes, personal cameras and phones are fine. Guests often take photos or videos with their phones during shows. Professional camera setups (large DSLRs on tripods or external flashes) may be restricted; always check with staff or the performing venue manager if you have a fancy camera. Flash photography is discouraged during concerts. Basically, snapping pics with your phone for social media is totally okay.
What items are not allowed inside Potbelly’s?
Prohibited items include outside alcohol (any bottles/drinks brought in), illegal drugs, fireworks, and weapons (including pocket knives). Large bags and backpacks will be searched or turned away. There’s no food policy, so feel free to bring a snack, but you can’t bring your own drink. Some special items (like glassware or hard coolers) might also be disallowed. Basically, if it’s illegal or a big bulky item, don’t bring it.
Are pets allowed inside?
No, pets are not allowed. Only service animals (for the disabled) may enter. It’s a busy bar environment, so a regular dog or cat cannot come inside. For safety and hygiene reasons, leave pets at home.
How early should I arrive before a show?
Plan to get there early, especially for sold-out shows. Doors often open 30–60 minutes before start time; many patrons line up that early. If you want to be close to the front of the stage, arrive when doors open. Late arrivals risk standing in a long line or having to enter after the crowd is full. After a big game the crowd may already be there, so consider arriving midway through kickoff or later if you are focusing on the music stage.
Is indoor smoking allowed?
No. Smoking is illegal indoors in Florida. You can only smoke in designated outdoor areas (usually the fenced patio). If you smoke during the show, you must step outside. The venue will kick out anyone caught smoking inside.
