About TENN Nightclub
TENN Nightclub (often just called “TENN”) is a high-energy dance club and adjoining lounge in downtown Tallahassee, Florida. Located on the historic “Tennessee Street” entertainment corridor, TENN sits in the All Saints cultural district, catering mainly to Florida State University and Florida A&M students and young professionals. The venue boasts a large open dance floor, multiple levels of VIP booth seating along the sides, and a cutting-edge audio/visual setup. The sound system and professional lighting rigs set the mood for intense club nights, while video screens and LED displays wrap the perimeter with dynamic graphics. All together, TENN is one of the biggest and most modern party spots in Tallahassee and carries on the city’s long tradition of student nightlife. Its signature features – a sprawling central dance space flanked by raised VIP lounges – give it a feel more like a concert hall than a small bar. Over the past few years, TENN has become a notable landmark for college nightlife in Tallahassee, offering a refined club experience with bottle service, themed events, and live DJs. In short, it matters because it’s the go-to venue for downtown nighttime entertainment in Tallahassee, especially for those looking for a big dance party after hours.
Events and Programming
TENN is primarily a weekend destination, with live DJs and themed dance nights every Friday and Saturday (and occasional special shows on other evenings). The programming ranges from top-40 and EDM to hip-hop and throwback nights. Local promoters regularly bring in national DJs and producers; in recent years acts like GorillaT (hip-hop), Manic Focus (electronic/bass), Dream Takers (EDM duo), and SIDEPIECE (house DJ duo) have headlined at TENN. There are recurring weekly features—such as “All You Can Drink” parties on Saturday nights and college-focused Thursday events (when held)—and one-off festivals or holiday parties throughout the year. For example, the annual Florida State Homecoming week often includes special events at TENN, and unique festivals like the “Up & Up” EDM showcase have used TENN’s stages for multi-night lineups. Besides big-ticket acts, the club frequently hosts college nights with discounted entry and drink specials, drawing large student crowds, while the adjacent TENN Lounge serves as a more relaxed space with electronic or light dance music (often with free entry). Shows typically start late in the night (doors often open around 10 PM or midnight) and run until the 2 AM or 3 AM closing time. Ticket prices and cover charges depend on the act: small local events might have no cover or just a few dollars, whereas an advertised concert or a touring DJ might charge $20–30 in advance. Local event pages and TENN’s social media usually list the price tiers (general admission, VIP access, etc.) before each show. In general, you can expect to pay a modest cover on big party nights (~$5–$10) and more for headliner performances. Flat-rate drink specials (like a $10 wristband for all-you-can-drink) are common on certain nights. All in all, TENN’s calendar is packed with parties Fridays and Saturdays, punctuated by larger concerts and special events throughout the season. This keeps something happening almost every weekend for the young crowd, from live DJ sets and rap shows to holiday-themed parties and co-sponsored college events.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for most TENN events can be bought online or at the door. Promoters often sell advance tickets via Eventbrite or Ticketfly for headlining DJs and concert-style shows; these are usually available weeks before the event and are highly recommended for popular shows to ensure entry. General admission tickets typically range from around $10 up to $30 or more for big-name acts. On club nights (no-special-show Fridays/Saturdays), there may simply be a cover charge at the door instead of an advance sale. The venue itself does not have a regular box office open daily, but on event nights you can pay at the door if space allows. Most patrons buy tickets through the official event announcement channels (the club’s website, Facebook, or event listings) rather than third-party resellers. If an event sells out online, there may still be limited tickets or guest-list spots available at the door early in the night, but this is not guaranteed. During the day of an event, box office windows open around showtime (often 10:00 PM or later), and night-of tickets usually cost the same or slightly more than the advance price. For VIP tables and bottle service, you’ll need to contact TENN’s management or affiliated promoters in advance. These premium reservations have separate fees (a high minimum spend, often several hundred dollars) and are not purchased like normal tickets; instead, you book a package including a reserved booth. For door sales, note that cash is king: many clubs encourage cash payment for entry and drinks. If you plan to pay at the door, bring cash to avoid ATM fees or slow card processing. Guest lists (which can reduce or waive the cover charge) are sometimes offered for college nights or via local promoters, so following TENN’s official social media for announcements is the best strategy. In summary, the best ways to secure entry are to buy online early for big shows, arrive early if you’re using a guest list or doing walk-up entry, and plan for a cover charge at the door on busy nights.
Seating and Layout
TENN’s interior is an open-floor nightclub design rather than a seated theater. The main area is a large central dance floor with the DJ booth at one end. Around the perimeter, tiered VIP seating areas (booths or sofa tables) overlook the dance floor. These VIP sections offer a raised view but are usually reserved for guests who purchase table service or bottle packages. At the edges near the bar and along the front entrance, there are stand-up cocktail tables and lounge areas where people can mill about without dancing. The restrooms (both “men” and “women”) are located toward the back and sides of the club; by late night there may be lines, so plan accordingly. The ceilings are high (often needed for the club-size speakers and light rig), with exposed trusses and hanging stage lights. Overall, the venue is mostly standing-room; regular showgoers should expect to move around rather than sit. Some parties have a second level (like a mezzanine or balcony) with bar access and a partial view of the floor, which can be good for those wanting a break from the crowds. In general, there aren’t “bad seats,” but for best club experience you’ll want to start dancing near either side of center. If you prefer more personal space, one of the VIP booths or side lounge areas can feel less crowded. Sound is loudest and clearest in the center of the floor, while speakers along the walls keep audio throughout the space. If you don’t plan to purchase a table, the best “seats” are just your own spot on the floor. A word to the wise: avoid lingering in the very back corner or near the bar if you want a clear view of the lights and DJ. Also remember that crowd size can easily fill the room on popular nights, so even “short” guests end up in a sea of people. In short, TENN is designed for standing and dancing – it’s a general admission club where getting there early means you can claim a prime spot to enjoy the show.
Getting There and Parking
TENN Nightclub is located at 666-1 W Tennessee Street (also referred to simply as TENN or TENN Nightclub). The block lies between Dewey Street and Raven Street in downtown Tallahassee’s All Saints district. This is a few blocks west of Monroe Street (the main north/south downtown drag) and just west of the Leon County Courthouse area. If driving, the club is easily reached via Tennessee Street (US-90) from either direction. From the north, take Apalachee Parkway south to Adams Street, then one block west to Tennessee. From the south (for example, coming off I-10), use Capital Circle or Monroe Street north to Tennessee Street. Street parking along Tennessee and side streets exists but is very limited, especially at night. Most meters downtown turn off after 6:00 PM, but spaces still fill up fast on popular nights. We recommend using one of the public parking garages in the downtown core instead. The closest municipal garages include the Liberty Park Garage at Georgia & College (about 3 blocks east) and the Pensacola Street Garage (at Walker Street near Monroe). There is also a smaller city lot on Dewey Street behind the old FB&T building. Another option is private lots or surface lots near the Civic Center. Many patrons opt for ride-hailing services (Uber/Lyft) for convenience: the main entrance on Tennessee St has a clear curbside area for picking up and dropping off. Be mindful that late-night traffic (especially on Friday/Saturday) can get busy on Tennessee, so allow extra time. Public transit is available too: StarMetro city buses run through downtown, with stops at Tennessee Street at Dewey and at Tennessee & Appleyard, depending on the route. The C.K. Steele Bus Plaza (downtown transit center at Monroe Street) is about two blocks east of the club – from there it’s a short walk west on Tennessee. If coming from the FSU/FAMU campus area, Night Owl buses or campus circulators can get you within walking distance. In summary, your best bets are to plan for either paid parking nearby (garages/lots) or take a ride service so you don’t have to hunt for a street spot. Also, know that after the club closes there are no parking restrictions downtown, so late-night street parking becomes easier after 2:00 AM.
Inside the Venue
Once inside TENN, expect a polished but energetic nightclub atmosphere. Entry is controlled by a front desk or ticket booth where staff check photo ID (everyone must be at least 21, or 18+ on some nights with ID) and collect cover charges. Security personnel may pat down or check bags at the door; the usual nightclub rules apply, so do not bring outside food, drinks, or large backpacks. Beyond the entrance you enter the main club space – keep your ticket/wristband handy if you need to show it again. There is a small coat check available during the cooler months (for a dollar or two fee), but since Tallahassee is warm most nights, few people need it. On the right side (or sometimes near the DJ booth) is the bar. The bar serves a full range of alcoholic beverages – bottled beer, liquor shots, and mixed cocktails. Standard prices apply; some nights feature happy-hour style deals early on (for example, early evening drink specials) before ramping up. Bars in TENN typically accept credit cards, but cash is often preferred to speed up service. Speaking of bar service, note that on packed nights lines form quickly – if possible, step a bit off the dance floor for a few minutes to grab drinks before the crowd surges. Restrooms are located on one side of the venue (usually rear or side walls). There are separate men’s and women’s rooms plus at least one handicapped-accessible stall to meet ADA requirements. Expect tight queues by peak hours, so use the restrooms early or mix it up with your group. If you need a snack or bite, TENN does not have a kitchen or food counters, so plan to eat beforehand or leave for late-night eats afterward (there are a few fast-food and 24-hour diners in the area). Some visitors like to eat at places like the Waffle House on Macomb St or a pizza spot on West Tennessee. Other amenities inside the club include a few standing tables near the back for a quick rest, and sometimes merchandise tables if a headliner band is touring – in that case you might see t-shirts or glow items for sale. Otherwise, your phone’s flashlight is usually enough for reading bar menus. Cell phone reception is generally okay, but if you need to check social media or find rideshare inside, remember the music is loud. Overall, expect nightclub customs: no smoking indoors (Tallahassee is smoke-free inside), no weapons of any kind, and no photos with flash required. The staff are professional – bartenders, coat check staff, and security – and can answer on-site questions like where the nearest ride stand or parking lot is. Don’t hesitate to ask them politely if you need help. In short, the interior runs smoothly: check in at the door, grab a drink at the bar, and head to the dance floor or lounge area to enjoy. Remember that the club’s atmosphere is high-energy and crowded, so it’s good to stay with friends and watch your belongings. With the lights, music, and active crowd, TENN sets the scene for a full-on party.
Nearby Amenities
Because TENN is in a busy downtown block, you’ll have plenty of options close by for pre- or post-party food and lodging. For eating out before the show, several restaurants are within walking distance. A block to the east on North Monroe Street you’ll find casual turnaround spots like Madison Social (brunch and bar fare) and Leo’s Express BBQ (southern-style barbecue). Directly on West Tennessee in the same block as the club are quick-service cafés and food trucks (for example, a gyro shop and a tapas bar), which cater to a younger crowd. If you need a full sit-down dinner, a few blocks east on West College Avenue are popular options such as silver spoon eateries and pizza pubs. Near College Avenue and West Tennessee there’s also an outpost of Taco Bell for a late snack, plus multiple sandwich shops. After the club closes, the area still has late-night choices: you could walk a short distance to the nearby Golden Coral or find a 24-hour diner for breakfast or late bites. For drinks before/after, the district has other bars and breweries on Tennessee and Georgia Street (like Proof Brewing and just-a-block-down pubs) which are often busy on weekend evenings. If you want sit-down beers or cocktails, there are cocktail lounges a few blocks away in the downtown center, including a rooftop bar above a nearby hotel. Speaking of hotels, downtown Tallahassee has several within a mile. The closest chain hotels include the Courtyard by Marriott at Gaines & Monroe (about three blocks east, ideal if you want to crash quickly), the Hilton Garden Inn on Gadsden Street, and the Hampton Inn & Suites near Monroe St. The Hotel Duval/Aloft brand is one block east on Tennessee itself (next door to CSU Football offices), which is very convenient. If those fill up, there are also midscale and budget hotels just north along Monroe, or around Florida State University. Late-night transportation options are somewhat limited because regular city buses stop running at midnight. However, downtown hotel shuttles (if available) might run on game nights or events, and taxis and ridesharing are the norm. If you need to head home, calling an Uber/Lyft from right in front of TENN is the most common solution. On busy nights, allow an extra 10–15 minutes for a car to come by, especially after 2 AM rush. As for when to arrive, most people show up anytime between 10:00 PM and midnight. If you want to dine first, aim to eat by 9:30 PM and then head over – the club typically opens around that time. Since nearby brunch spots (if you stay late) often won’t open until morning, many stick to kitchen-less bars or hotel food rooms if they want anything to eat late-night. Sum up: at street level near TENN you’ll find fast eats and bars; a few blocks out are many downtown restaurants; and within a few minute drive or walk are major hotels. On a night out, it’s common to dine locally beforehand, party at TENN, then either hop across to a bar in the Frenchtown/Capitol District or return to your hotel for rest.
What Makes This Venue Special
TENN Nightclub stands out in Tallahassee’s scene for several reasons. Architecturally, it occupies a former retail/building space that was fully renovated into a state-of-the-art club. The earsplitting DJ booth, swinging light show beams, and occasional confetti drops give the place a true special-events vibe. Culturally, TENN symbolizes Florida State’s party scene; for many locals it’s the quintessential “college night” spot. Many students recall their visiting-nightlife experiences at TENN as rites of passage. Over time it’s developed a reputation for bringing international club acts (like Sidepiece or Manic Focus) to a small-capacity Tallahassee stage, which used to be rare. The adjacent TENN Lounge (a more chill bar space) also adds to its uniqueness – guests can drift between an intense dance environment and a more relaxed lounge without changing venues. In practice, that means you can start the night with friends in the lounge, then seamlessly move to the nightclub when DJ beats drop. No other club in town offers that combined lounge/club concept in one location. Another special aspect is TENN’s role in the wider community. It often serves as an unofficial flagship for Tennessee Street’s revival, encouraging other businesses to stick around downtown later into the night. On big game days or during festivals, TENN is typically one of the main afterparty spots, rounding out Tallahassee’s college-town culture. Local lore also points out small but memorable moments: the owner has thrown impromptu foam parties, and simple thematic nights (e.g. all-white dress code or masquerade evenings) that become community events. Even critics agree that from a production standpoint, TENN is top-tier for the region’s size. The club’s staff has become known by name; for example, a promoter or door manager affectionately dubbed “Luke” is often mentioned in discussions as keeping the vibe intact and clients connected, a sign of the tight-knit party community. Economically, TENN contributes significant nightlife revenue for Tallahassee. It keeps restaurants occupied with pre-club dinners, gives local bars spillover business, and provides jobs in bartending, security, and events management. It also draws visitors from around the area – some come to Tallahassee specifically for a night at TENN rather than choosing other cities. In summary, the venue’s combination of cutting-edge production, two-in-one layout, and student-oriented vibe makes it special. It’s not just another bar; it’s the heartbeat of downtown Tallahassee’s weekend scene, where both out-of-towners and locals converge to dance late into the night.
Visitor Tips and Information
Prepare for a late, lively evening. The club’s door policies and environment can be stricter than a typical bar, so come ready: have your ID (no exceptions), arrive with cash if possible, and dress to impress. There is usually a dress code: think neat casual (no flip-flops, tank tops, or sports jerseys). If you wander up in sneakers and a hoodie, you may find the bouncer turning you away. Instead, opt for a collared shirt or nice top and clean shoes to be safe. Plan to get there early if you have a large group or want to buy tickets at the door, especially on busy nights. Lines will often form by 11:00 PM on weekends, and once inside, space on the dance floor can fill up. To enhance your phone battery life, consider bringing a small charger; the excitement can quickly drain your battery thanks to DJ live-stream requests or photos. Be cautious with personal belongings – use pockets or small bags and keep them close, because on a crowded floor it’s not easy to guard loose items. It’s wise to drink responsibly. Drink specials (like $10 vodka well or beer buckets) can make it tempting, but moderate yourself. Always watch your drink being made, and never leave it unattended. If you need to step outside for air or a phone call, remember that typically you cannot re-enter without paying again or getting a new wristband. On the flip side, if you want some fresh air or a breather, there may be a small outdoor area for smoking or just stepping out – just make sure to re-drench yourself on hand sanitizer at the door afterward. One common mistake is thinking that you can find seating anywhere. There are no random chairs for guests. So if dancing isn’t your thing, try staying near the back or side of the room where people sometimes stand around tables, or head to the adjoining lounge which can feel less intense. Last, note the age policy carefully: TENN events are primarily 21+ for alcohol, although sometimes they allow 18–20 year-olds with wristbands (no drinking). If you’re under 21, avoid any expectation of getting alcohol inside. Also, parking-related tips: downtown spaces can turn off meters at night, but cannot be sure – some block-long meter banks require a flat fee after 6 PM. Calling an Uber from outside the club (away from the busier intersections) often gets a quicker pick-up than trying to hail a cab on Tennessee Street. During major campus events, hire a rideshare early since demand skyrockets. If you have trouble finding your friends after entering, pick a meeting spot such as “near the back wall” that you all can recall, since inside it’s loud and phones can die. Finally, enjoy the experience! TENN can be a blast if you go in with the right expectations: a big club party full of lights, music, and dancing crowds. With these tips – valid ID, smart attire, local transit or parking plan, and awareness of venue customs – you’ll be set for a smoother night at TENN.
Frequently Asked Questions
What days is TENN Nightclub open, and what time do events usually start?
TENN typically operates on Friday and Saturday nights. Doors often open around 10:00–11:00 PM, and headliner shows might even begin after midnight, lasting until the 2:00 or 3:00 AM closing time. Occasionally there are special events on other days (such as holiday or Homecoming parties), but for regular weekly events plan on weekends after 10 PM. Always check the specific event listing, as party start times can vary.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance, and where can I purchase them?
For major concerts or big DJ nights, buying tickets in advance is highly recommended. Tickets are usually sold through official event pages like Eventbrite or the club’s site. If an event isn’t sold out, you can also pay cover at the door on the night of the show. General club nights (not big-name acts) often let you just pay a cover charge at the entrance without pre-bought tickets. If advance tickets are available, they often cost a bit less than the price at the door. Follow TENN’s social media or the local event calendar for links to buy tickets.
What is the cover charge or ticket price range for an average night at TENN?
Cover charges vary by event. A typical college-night party might have a cover of $5–$10 per person, especially later in the evening. Special DJ shows or festivals can run $15–$30. In some cases you can find early-bird or Joker door deals. Keep in mind that many events include a free drink or food item as part of the admission. Cash at the door is often accepted and sometimes preferred for faster entry. You’ll usually find the exact price announced on the event flyer or Facebook page well before the show.
How do I sign up for the guest list or find promos?
Guest list options depend on the promoter and event. A common approach is to message the club or DJ through social media, or to sign up via a link posted on TENN’s Facebook page or Instagram. Being on the guest list typically means a reduced or waived cover before a certain hour (usually until 11 PM or midnight). There are also local nightlife apps and Facebook groups where insiders share promo codes for free or discounted entry. Always make sure it’s an official list (linked from the club or promoter) – otherwise you might find only paid promotions. And remember, guest lists still require you to show a valid ID at the door.
Is there seating or is it standing only?
TENN is primarily general admission – most of the venue is standing-room, particularly the main dance floor. There are no individual seats set up for guests. If you want to sit or lean, you’ll need to find a free VIP booth or lounge table, which in practice means purchasing bottle service or getting a reservation. Otherwise plan to stand or dance. Some people briefly rest on high-top tables along the edges, but be aware these fill up fast. If you absolutely need a sit-down spot, consider using the coffee tables behind the lounge bar – but again, no solid guarantee. The vibe is meant to keep people moving and dancing rather than sitting.
What is the age limit at TENN Nightclub?
Events at TENN are usually 21+ (every attendee must show a valid government-issued ID) since alcohol is sold inside. Occasionally some nights are marked 18+ (typically with non-alcoholic wristbands for under-21 attendees), but you should assume 21 and up unless the event listing explicitly says “All Ages.” Make sure your ID is unexpired. Even if you’re under 21, some local parties might let you dance if you don’t drink, but these “18+” nights are relatively rare. The safest bet is to be 21 or have a 21+ friend in your group.
Is there a dress code or any clothing restrictions?
TENN generally enforces an upscale casual or “club-casual” dress code. Men should avoid flip-flops, tank tops, athletic wear, or baseball hats. Sneakers and jeans are allowed, but the bouncers prefer neat shirts and closed-toe shoes. Women usually wear cocktail dresses, nice blouses with jeans, or dressy tops and heels. Costumes or themed outfits (if an event calls for it) are fine. In general, if you look presentable and party-ready, you’ll be fine. The door staff can refuse entry for overly casual attire, so when in doubt dress a bit nicer than your everyday going-out clothes.
Are outside drinks or food allowed?
No. Like most nightclubs, TENN does not allow outside food or drink. If you try to sneak in your own alcohol or snacks, security will confiscate it. All drinks must be purchased at the venue’s bar (they have a full liquor license and a variety of beverage options). Bringing in a small sealed water bottle only (for medical reasons) is usually okay but double-check with a guard first. Basically, plan to buy any refreshments you need after entry.
Is smoking allowed inside or is there a smoking area?
Smoking is not allowed inside TENN (Florida law bans indoor smoking in public venues). There is usually a designated outdoor space or patio near the entrance where patrons can smoke after stepping out. Security will stamp you or do a wrist-tap when you exit so they can let you back in. Always be mindful of the door when you smoke outside – it gets cold and loud, so don’t stay out too long.
Are there coat checks or storage lockers?
TENN sometimes offers a coat check during fall/winter months, for a small fee (typically around $2–$3). However, in Tallahassee’s climate, many guests simply carry light jackets or none at all in warmer weather. There are no personal lockers, so leave large bags behind. It’s smart to come with minimal belongings (just keys, phone, wallet) that you can keep on you. Security will check any bag that can’t be hung up, so if you brought one, be prepared for a quick search.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the main entrance to TENN Street is at ground level and should be accessible by wheelchair. There is no staircase at the door, and the club floor itself is flat with space to maneuver. The restrooms include an ADA-compliant stall and wider doorway. If you have accessibility needs, the staff can assist entering and finding a comfortable spot, but note that most of the space is standing-area. If you need seating, you should arrange in advance for a table. Overall, TENN meets the basic ADA requirements for entry and restrooms.
What’s the best way to get to TENN Nightclub by public transit?
Tallahassee’s StarMetro bus system runs several routes downtown. One convenient stop is at West Call Street & Dewey (just one block north of Tennessee Street); that is served by some University shuttles and the “UGA” (Garnet) campus route. Another option is to ride downtown and get off at the C.K. Steele Bus Plaza (on Monroe Street near Gaines), then walk 2 blocks west on Tennessee Avenue. Ask the driver for the stop nearest Tennessee St. If you’re coming from FSU campus, any bus bound for downtown Cass Plaza or College Town will roughly get you there (with a short walk). Since services slow down after midnight, many people prefer rideshare for late-night trips from the club back home or to campus.
What is the general parking situation during events?
Downtown parking can fill up quickly on weekend nights. All on-street meters around Tennessee Street generally stop needing payment after early evening, but those spaces are limited. For guaranteed parking, use nearby garages such as the Liberty Park garage (corner of Monroe & College) or surface lots like the one near the Greyhound station. Some private lots open up after events but can charge high rates. Rideshare/Uber is a popular way to avoid the hassle, since drop-off at the door is easy and you don’t have to hunt for a spot. If you do drive, arrive early to grab a street space or garage spot before they fill up.
Are there any weather policies for TENN Nightclub since it’s indoor?
TENN is fully indoors, so shows go on rain or shine without interruption. Only in extreme circumstances (like a city curfew or emergency) would an event be canceled for weather. That said, storms can slow down arrival and departure, so allow extra travel time if the weather is bad. Once inside, the temperature is air-conditioned for comfort. In summer, expect it to be fairly cool indoors, so a light shirt is fine (no need for coats once you get inside).
Does TENN have a coat or bag check?
A coat check is sometimes available during colder months (subject to staff availability) for a small fee. If the weather is warm, it’s often not staffed. Because space is limited, the club does not encourage large bags. Guests typically keep small purses or strapped bags with them on the dance floor. If you bring a bag, security will likely inspect it. If you absolutely need to store something, ask the front-door staff if coat check is open; if not, it may be safer to leave bulky items at home or in your car. Keep valuables on you or in pockets to avoid misplacing them in the crowded environment.
Identify some event-specific FAQs: How do I find out who’s performing and the schedule?
TENN’s event lineup is posted on its official social media pages (Facebook and Instagram) and on local event calendars. Websites like Eventbrite or Bandsintown sometimes list upcoming shows at TENN as well. For the most accurate info, follow the club’s own social accounts where they announce DJs, dates, door times, and any lineup changes. Nightly flyers posted in town (often around college campuses) also advertise the next weekend’s acts. If in doubt, call the venue’s phone number in the evening to ask about that night’s entertainment and ticket status.
