ENTERTAINMENT

'Discover a new favorite spot': Leon County launches bucket list of summer fun

Special to the Tallahassee Democrat
Tallahassee Automobile Museum has an eclectic collection of cars and other items.

The Leon County Division of Tourism in partnership with Tallahassee Foodies and the Capital City Chamber of Commerce, launched its new, community-focused program the “Summer Backyard Bucket List” on June 2.

The program was created to support local businesses and educate residents on the continually evolving destinations and will run for three months from June through August 2021.

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Each month will feature a new bucket list of local businesses to explore including attractions, restaurants, breweries, shops and museums. Participants who visit the featured businesses and share on social media will be entered for a chance to win prizes. 

“Leon County is committed to the continued support of local businesses as they continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Leon County Commission Chairman Rick Minor. “Through the Summer Backyard Bucket List, we encourage our residents to explore and support new areas and businesses in the community, and perhaps discover a new favorite spot to visit with friends and family.”

The campaign is designed to encourage locals to get out and rediscover their own backyard including the attractions, shops, restaurants and other businesses found in Tallahassee/Leon County.

Bar 1903, located on Park Avenue in downtown Tallahassee, is open for business. Alcohol and food are served in the historic library.

Led by the Leon County Division of Tourism, the leveraged partnerships with the Tallahassee Foodies and Capital City Chamber of Commerce strengthens the project by expanding awareness and participation of the program while also promoting it to a broader audience.

“Through work with our many tourism partners, The Summer Backyard Bucket List helps residents rediscover what they love about our community by connecting them to our excellent local restaurants, attractions and small businesses here in Leon County,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long.

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Key lime cupcakes are one of the items that will be part of the menu at TC Bakery featuring Ma Mary's Kitchen, opening in the original Ma Mary's Kitchen building at 614 Eugenia Street near the Florida A&M University campus.

Each month during the Summer Backyard Bucket List program, locals are encouraged to visit the selected businesses and post a photograph on Instagram, using the hashtag #TallyBucketListSweepstakes. Each post earns participants one entry to the contest.

A non-social media option for entry is available at participating locations by scanning the unique QR code on-site. Monthly winners will be chosen to receive gift card prizes from local partners including restaurants, attractions and more.

On Sept. 1, 2021, one grand prize winner will be awarded a two-night Tallahassee/Leon County staycation to include hotel accommodations, meals and activities.

A drink called "The Charlie," the namesake drink of the Charlie Park rooftop bar atop the AC Hotel by Marriott Tallahassee in Cascades Park, is served Friday, June 4, 2021.

“We’re proud and excited to introduce the Tallahassee Backyard Bucket List Challenge,” said Kerri Post, Director of Leon County Tourism. “With more than 25% of tourists visiting friends and family, we wanted to encourage residents to explore their backyard this summer and become local ambassadors for Tallahassee/Leon County now that we have the ability to explore and gather again.”

The program is free to participate, although some locations may have an entry fee. June featured partners include:

June partners

  • TC Bakery
  • Bar 1903
  • Tallahassee Automobile Museum
  • Blu Halo
  • JR Alford Greenway
  • Vertigo Burger & Fries
Vertigo Burgers and Fries continues to operate by offering carry-out orders for customers Friday, May 1, 2020.
  • Kichenable
  • FAMU Rattler Statue
  • Opening Nights
  • Goodwood Museum
  • Red Eye Coffee     Tallahassee Museum
  • Pineappetit
  • Capital City Pedicab
  • Hearth & Soul
  • Historic Capitol Museum
  • Backwoods Crossing
  • District 850
  • Charlie Park
  • Essence of India
  • Reangthai
Wonderful Wednesdays at Goodwood feature live music and life-size chess games.

The Summer Backyard Bucket List is ongoing and there are additional opportunities for local businesses and organizations to partner.

For more information about adding your local business to our list of participating partners, join the Visit Tallahassee Partners Facebook group.

To learn more and view official sweepstakes rules, a list of local partners and prizes, go to VisitTallahassee.com/BackyardBucketList.

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