Blog for Auburn Opelika Tourism Burea

Arts & Culture

The Artist Behind the Glass: Donna Young

Tradition, hospitality, and creativity: that's Auburn-Opelika. It's all here, from the bustling businesses in downtown Auburn to the cafes and shops on 8th Street in Opelika. However, it’s the passionate, dedicated, and brilliant-minded people who truly make Auburn and Opelika special.

14 Scenic Spots for Tasteful Travelers in Auburn-Opelika

Whether you're a nature lover, an art enthusiast, or a bit of both, we've curated the perfect blend of experiences where the beauty of nature seamlessly integrates with artistic design.

Treat Yourself: A Solo Traveler's Guide to Ultimate Relaxation

With solo travel on the rise, there is no better destination to add to your list than the Auburn-Opelika area. Nestled in the heart of Alabama, Auburn-Opelika is filled with a serene charm and plenty of opportunities to unwind, recharge, and embrace the joy of self-care.

6 Reasons to See a Show at the Gogue Performing Arts Center

The Gogue has an incredible "front porch feel" experience that will be the same for every show you attend. Here are six reasons to book a show created with you in mind.

7 Things to Know Before Visiting the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art

The Jule Collins Smith Museum of the Fine Art welcomes guests into an unforgettable visual art experience. The museum is filled with frequently changing exhibitions featuring diverse mediums including paintings, prints, objects, sculptures, and more. Interested in taking part in this experience? Here are 7 things you need to know before visiting!

A Brief History of Opelika, the Railroad Town

Now known for fabulous restaurants, state of the art sports facilities, and a charming downtown, Opelika has always been rich with history and culture.

The Dining Winos Part 2: Wining & Dining in Auburn-Opelika

Join the Dining Winos this summer as they 'wine and dine' through some of Auburn-Opelika's favorite dining spots! This summer series will feature their experiences at local restaurants with exceptional wine lists, delicious food pairings, and other fine things that would appeal to any level of wine lover.

The Art Haus in historic downtown Opelika turns heads with its unique design, large windows, and beautiful brick courtyard. However, not everyone knows what it is or the story behind it.

Think fast - Father's Day is coming in hot! Treat your dear ol' dad to an experience you can only find in Auburn-Opelika! Make this Father’s Day one to remember by thinking out of the box and enjoying everything from breweries and brunch to the great outdoors and special events!

Wining & Dining in Auburn-Opelika with the Dining Winos

A brief history of Rolling Toomer's Corner & Toomer's Drugstore

It is a well-known fact that the city of Auburn has the most snowfall of all the cities in Alabama in any given season, although the weather here is contingent on an Auburn Tigers win and the local stores’ supply of toilet paper.

How to Make the Most of Your Basketball Stay in Auburn-Opelika

Basketball season is back with a vengeance. Whether you’re a die-hard Auburn fan or visiting team loyalist, we’ve crafted a local’s guide to a weekend-long stay or midweek getaway you’ll love!

Auburn-Opelika: A Valentine's Day Destination

Love is in the air in Auburn-Opelika. Whether you’re looking for fine dining, a casual bite, an adventurous evening, or an intimate experience, AO has a Valentine’s Day date for you!

Give the Gift of an Experience in Auburn-Opelika this Holiday Season

Looking for that perfect Christmas gift for the person who has it all? No idea what to buy your in-laws? Do you need to amp up your gift-giving game this holiday season?

Everything You Need To Know About the Opelika Songwriter's Festival

What if we told you there was a way to enjoy live music, visit multiple venues around downtown Opelika, and support local musicians and schools? The Opelika Songwriter’s Festival is back and ready to blow your socks off! This three-day weekend festival will transform downtown Opelika into an immersive experience filled with music you’ve never heard before, awesome venues, and a whole lot of fun.

Meet the Artists of the SummerNight Downtown Art Walk

The SummerNight Downtown Art Walk is back in downtown Auburn on Friday, June 11 from 6-10 p.m.

Fig & Wasp, a Hidden Gem for Antiques in Waverly

Fig and Wasp is a mother-daughter-owned antique shop tucked away in the small town of Waverly, Alabama.

Deepen your Love this Valentine's Day in Auburn-Opelika

Deepen your love with your special someone and enjoy these Valentine's Day activities in Auburn-Opelika

Auburn-Opelika is the proud home of the Miss Alabama USA pageant coming up on January 9-10, 2021. Auburn-Opelika Tourism has the unique pleasure of introducing the 2021 contestant representing our area. Meet Bayley Albinger or as we called her, Miss Auburn-Opelika USA 2021!

Serenity beckons. Hot stones. A soothing rub. Self-care is the name of the game in 2020. The heady scent of fresh grounds brewing to your exact specifications. A decadent dessert board and a glass or two of the deepest red before you tuck into a fluffy comforter with a new book from a local purveyor and a soul that feels restored. Auburn-Opelika is Road Trip Ready.

We could all use a little inspiration right now. Come see why our culture is more than just football.

Is it a minivan with seats for the kids and the dog? Or a 2-seater convertible for a couple of hip empty-nesters? Grab your masks and buckle up because it doesn’t matter who you are, Auburn-Opelika is Road Trip Ready!

Find your peaceful summer getaway at Historic Pioneer Park in Loachapoka.

How can you help support local? Buy a gift card to your favorite #AuburnOpelika restaurant, retailer, or other small business!

2nd Annual Opelika Songwriters Festival moved to Sept. 18-20

The 2nd Annual Opelika Songwriters Festival has been rescheduled for September 18-20, 2020 and will take place throughout downtown Opelika.

Ristretto Lounge: the sweetest part of the community

Tucked away in its own corner of Opelika, Ristretto Lounge offers the Auburn-Opelika community a unique coffee shop experience. It’s at once fresh and inviting, sleek and minimalist while somehow also warm and familiar. It’s like sitting in a friend’s living room—if their living room was effortlessly modern and tastefully decorated.

The Tony Award-winning“Waitress” is coming to the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center on Feb. 25 and 26, 2020. Both shows will begin at 7:30 p.m.

Jonathan Larson’s critically-acclaimed “RENT” is coming to the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center February 18 and 19, 2020, in celebration of its 20th touring year. Both shows will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night.

Auburn's Mardi Gras Parade & Krewe Krawl

The fourth annual “Krewe Krawl” and Mardi Gras parade will take place on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2020. The parade is organized by Krewe de Tigris and hosted by the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association. This year’s parade is dubbed “Mardi Gras and All that Jazz.”

There’s a new tradition to add to your Auburn experience, and even new visitors (also known as future fans!) will be delighted when they take a trip down North Donahue Drive near the Big Red Barn. The area’s first musical road now exists, thanks to the ingenuity and creativity of Auburn Engineering alum Tim Arnold. First there were tigers and toilet paper. Lemonade and soaring eagles.

Art Haus creates community for artists in Auburn-Opelika

“Opelika is a very creative community,” J. said. “We’re hoping that the Art Haus can be a vital part of that, a place for people to paint and be creative. Our goal is to offer a creative space to creative people and for that to result in enriching our community.”

Family-Owned Bookstore to Open Doors in Downtown Auburn Next Month

Auburn Oil Company Booksellers is set to open in October 2019. The store will be located in the heart of downtown Auburn at 149 E. Magnolia Avenue, Suite 101.

On The Tracks returns to downtown Opelika on October 18

Opelika’s Signature Wine and Cheese Event Returns October 18

8th Annual Fall Boogie to Make Sound Waves in Waverly this October

The Fall Boogie is returning to the Standard Deluxe in Waverly on October 12, 2019. This will be the event’s eighth year since its debut in 2012.

3rd Annual Auburn-Opelika Wine Trail set for Oct. 25

Get your tickets now for the third annual Auburn-Opelika Wine Trail slated for Friday, October 25. Don’t miss this chance to experience three wineries in East Alabama with a special farm-to-table lunch provided by Bow & Arrow.

Miss Alabama USA to be Crowned in Auburn this October

The Miss Alabama USA and Miss Alabama Teen USA pageants will crown this year’s winners in Auburn this fall. The long-running tradition will be held on October 4-5, 2019 at Auburn University’s new Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center.

2nd annual Red Clay Oysterfest Returns for a Shell-Shuckin' Good Time

Suffering from a serious lack of fresh oysters? Craving a cold craft beer from Red Clay? Wondering how to knock these two things out at the same time? You’re in luck—Oysterfest is returning to Red Clay Brewing Company on September 24!

The Ultimate Guide to Homecoming Week in Auburn

Homecoming Week is right around the corner and that means there is a lot to do in Auburn-Opelika! Check out these AUsome events that surround the Auburn vs. Kent State game coming up on Saturday, September 14. War Eagle!

Standard Deluxe's Dirt Road Century Ride sells out in record time

The Standard Deluxe Dirt Road Century is returning to Waverly on October 19. The self-supported dirt road race will begin and end at the eclectic Standard Deluxe music venue.

What's new in Auburn-Opelika this football season?

Whether you come to every game or just stay for Homecoming weekend, there are plenty of new things to do and see in Auburn-Opelika in 2019.

Opelika Main Street welcomes new Executive Director

Opelika Main Street is excited to announce Ken Ward as the new executive director. Ward brings a young perspective to the historic main street community. He is a recent graduate of Auburn University with undergraduate degrees in Journalism and Political Science and a Master of Public Administration.

Auburn's inaugural Food and Wine Festival will be held on June 22, 2019, at Twenty-One Acres. The event, benefiting the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County, is sure to be one to remember!

Where to hear live music in Auburn-Opelika

Auburn-Opelika is full of great venues and artists. Want to see for yourself, but don't know where to start? No worries! We've compiled the best places to catch some live tunes around town for you. Check out our list of where to hear live music in Auburn-Opelika!

Meet the coolest college town in the South. Auburn University might be legendary, but it's only the beginning of our authentic and compelling story. Check out this list of Auburn-Opelika's best ways and places to spend your time. You might not get to them all, and that's the best reason we can think of for you to come back.

Gogue Performing Arts Center announces opening season performances

The GPAC’s long-awaited inaugural season will feature nine series: Americana roots, Broadway, celebrity concerts, chamber arts, dance, family-friendly performances, global stage, jazz, and vocal songbook.

There's nothing quite like Mardi Gras and spending the holiday on The Plains is something special. Check out these fun ways to celebrate this Mardi Gras in Auburn!

Griff Goods Brings Sustainable Clothing to Opelika

Griff Goods, a sustainable men's clothing boutique, is now open in downtown Opelika giving the community a curated, ethically sourced shopping experience.

Whether you’re the bride-to-be or a newbie maid of honor, the wedding planning process can intimidate even the most decisive among us. Save this list of lovely local vendors specializing in everything from whimsical flower arrangements to Aubie cake pops.

2019 Auburn Summer Camp Registration is Now Open

Auburn Youth Programs provides learning and adventure for your child at Auburn University. No matter their interests, AYP has a camp just right for them!

One of our favorite events, On the Tracks, is back! On The Tracks will be held Friday, October 19, from 6-10 p.m. in downtown Opelika with a few new twists.

In honor of our annual AO Photo Contest (which you can learn more about by clicking here), we've decided to share some of our favorite bird's-eye views of this college town and railroad sister city. Check out these shots from above and be sure to tag us in your drone shots on social media!

Makers You Need to Know in Auburn-Opelika

In a world where just about anything is an Add to Cart and 2-day shipping away, it’s easy to forget the joy of supporting small businesses. Artisans pour their heart and soul into their wares, and the care and attention to detail that each maker puts into their craft shows in the quality of the product they create.

This eclectic retail space houses work by numerous artists, artisans, and farmers from all over the state. Each piece of art in the store is unique, telling a story about the area or the maker.

Concourse/south is a weeklong music and arts festival taking place in downtown Opelika on August 20-26, 2017. The extravaganza will benefit local organizations, including O Grows and the BigHouse Foundation, as well as future arts programming in Opelika. Each day will highlight different artists, makers, musicians and more in Historic Downtown Opelika.

New Kaufmann Collection at Auburn Art Captures Auburn History

Part of what makes Auburn the “Loveliest Village on the Plains” is the community that calls it home. That’s why Auburn Art is so passionate about featuring the work of local artists in their downtown store and online. The latest artist to be featured at Auburn Art is Thomas Kaufmann, an Auburn University grad who works as an artist, educator, preservationist and architectural illustrator.

Cheers on the Corner is an Auburn Downtown Merchants event held in downtown Auburn, Ala.

Summer time in Auburn is a special time of the year for students and locals alike! The streets stay a little quieter, but there is still plenty to do in this small town. Join us tomorrow night for SummerNight Downtown Art Walk - a free, creative evening in the downtown entertainment district.

Chirpwood, located in Opelika, is the areas only gallery for regional artists. The scent of southern pine fills the shop, with local artwork filling the handcrafted niches in the walls.

On The Tracks, the biannual food and wine event in historic downtown Opelika will be hosted on April 21. On The Tracks takes you on a tasting trail of 25 stops, and offers a fun environment with live music and culinary treats.

After remaining vacant for over 15 years, the house required a lot of rehabilitation. However, The Sound Wall is now a tranquil spot for artists near and far to record. The couple seeks to attract artists to The Sound Wall as an escape from larger cities.

Auburn, AL has been selected as one of the South’s Best by Southern Living. This list celebrates the spectacular sights, inspiring destinations, and cultural institutions that define the South in 2017. To create the first ever South’s Best list, Southern Living surveyed more than 22,000 readers on the best-loved places in 13 categories: bars, breweries, cities, hotels, inns, islands, museums, resorts, restaurants, shops, small towns, tailgates, and barbecue joints.

The locAL market is a non-traditional retail space that gives local makers and artists a platform to show their work in the heart of downtown Auburn! The locAL market is hosted by artist, Lauren Duncan and sponsored by J&M.

The third annual Alabama Oyster Social is this Saturday, January 28th at 6 p.m.! The social will be hosted at the ALFA Pavillion (The Red Barn) on Auburn University’s campus with featured chefs from Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi and Louisiana. Participants will enjoy an assortment of oysters, beverages and live music.