Blog for Auburn Opelika Tourism Burea

News

Tourists in Alabama Spend Record Amount in 2023

Tourists in Alabama spent $1 billion more in 2023 than in the previous record year, reaching a new record spending high of $23.5 billion, Gov. Key Ivey announced today

8 AUsome Homecoming Week Happenings in Auburn-Opelika | 2023

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. Samford game coming up on Saturday, September 16, War Eagle!

12 New Things Since Last Football Season [2023 Edition]

As the new football season approaches, Auburn fans are excited to return to the Loveliest Village on the Plains. If you haven’t visited our spirited destination since last year, boy are you in for a treat! Check out this list of everything that’s changed since last football season - from pancakes to Publix, there’s always something new in Auburn-Opelika!

8 Farmers Markets to Know in Auburn-Opelika This Summer

Experiencing food at the peak of freshness is a joy unlike any other, and in a world where we’re increasingly becoming more aware of the importance of understanding where our food comes from, knowing who your farmer is seems like a no-brainer!

2023 A-Day Festivities For the Whole Weekend!

A-Day Weekend is right around the corner, and that means there is a lot to do in Auburn-Opelika! Check out all of these AUsome events!

Cheers to Auburn's newest nightlife spot: Session Cocktails

Raise your glass to the newest addition to the Auburn-Opelika nightlife scene: Session Cocktails. The eclectic style, carefully curated drinks, and exceptional hospitality sets the tone for an elevated experience. When guests arrive, they are greeted by a host who ensures there's a spot for the party. Session can accommodate about 80 guests at a time.

A Sneak Peek at the Tony and Libba Rane Culinary Science Center

Get ready to experience the brand new, state-of-the-art, Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center, home to the Laurel Hotel and Spa. The center brings a brand-new array of experiences, revolutionizing the hospitality management program at Auburn. From the luxury spa to the Hey Day Market, this new facility is the only one of its kind in the world.

New Things in Auburn-Opelika Since Last Football Season

Check out this blog about some of the new businesses and entertainment in the Auburn-Opelika area since last football season! There are a lot of new things that the area has to offer, so make sure to check out as many as you can during your next visit!

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!

Chef Series: The Waverly Local's Chef Christian Watson

For almost four and a half years, Chef Christian Watson, executive chef and operating partner of The Waverly Local, has been living out his dream of owning a restaurant alongside his friend and operating partner, Andy Anderson.

In honor of Burger Wars, Opelika's annual burger grilling contest coming up on June 4, we've expanded the burger competition! You can put your taste buds to the test and enjoy these competing burgers at their respective restaurants starting May 1 leading up to the big event. The 2nd annual Burger Battles is on!

Chef Eron Bass, executive chef at Café 123, is all about good food done right. He has been working behind the scenes of the white-tablecloth restaurant for almost 19 years. When the café opened, he began as sous chef under Chef Chris Cannon, longtime friend, executive chef and co-owner with John Robert Wood. Eventually, Cannon left Café 123, and Chef Eron took over as executive chef.

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.

Chef Series: Zazu Gastropub's Chef Graham Hage

Graham Hage is the owner and executive chef of Zazu Gastropub, located in historic downtown Opelika. Diners will be hard-pressed to decide which is better: the elevated, farm-fresh cuisine or the converted industrial space. Chef Graham is responsible for both.

Chef Series: The Hound's Chef Robbie Nicolaisen

Centrally located in the heart of downtown Auburn and recognized by its antler door pulls, The Hound features over-the-top American classics, Southern cuisine with a twist, and boasts an impressive bourbon collection.

Robyn Bridges Named President & CEO of Auburn-Opelika Tourism

The board of directors of Auburn-Opelika Tourism has announced Robyn Bridges as president & CEO of the organization, effective May 1.

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!

Auburn-Opelika Tourism awarded Tourism Organization of the Year

Auburn-Opelika Tourism was named Tourism Organization of the Year this week by the Alabama Tourism Department. State Tourism Director Lee Sentell presented this prestigious award to AO Tourism President John Wild on Thursday evening, January 7, at the annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism.

Your Ultimate Guide to Homecoming Weekend in Auburn 2021

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. Georgia State game coming up on Saturday, September 25, War Eagle!

Get to know Miss Auburn-Opelika USA 2022

Counting down the days until Auburn football returns to the Plains? Head coach Brian Harsin isn't the only new addition to the Auburn Family in 2021. Check out this top 10 list of new things to do and see this football season! War Eagle and welcome back to the Loveliest Village.

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.

National Travel and Tourism Week is an annual tradition for the U.S. travel community. It’s a time when travel and tourism professionals across the country unite to celebrate the value travel holds for our economy, businesses and personal well-being.

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.

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!

When you’re ready, we look forward to welcoming you back to Auburn-Opelika. As Auburn University re-opens and students return to campus, our businesses are open and ready to serve you. Nothing is more important than your safety and comfort, which is why Auburn-Opelika Tourism supports our businesses' efforts to follow recommended safety guidelines such as the Alabama Restaurant Promise...

Virtual Camps to entertain and educate kids this summer

To keep the kids entertained and educated while school is out, Auburn Youth Programs is hosting virtual camps for all ages this summer. AYP, an extension of University Outreach hosts over 100 camps every summer to educate and inspire kids outside of school.

Celebrate Mom in Auburn-Opelika.

Auburn-Opelika will be here for you when it's time to travel again. Until then, use this list to virtually explore Auburn-Opelika.

Change the default zoom background image to support your local Auburn-Opelika community.

Food trucks are easily accessible and allow you to dine differently! Check out the local trucks currently operating in the Auburn-Opelika Area.

AO Tourism partners with John Emerald Distillery to make sanitizer for community

In light of the recent spread of COVID-19 in our community, John Emerald Distillery is in a unique position of providing assistance to our hospitality colleagues.

Azalea and Dogwood Trails Already Blooming in Auburn-Opelika

Keep Opelika Beautiful is kicking off the spring season with the Azalea and Dogwood trail!

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.

Who else loved watching Madi and Peter explore our great city for their Hometown Date? It got us thinking about what we'd like to see on our perfect Auburn Bachelor date. Check out our ideas below!

There are some pretty beautiful sunsets in Auburn-Opelika. We've compiled a list of the best spots to check out with your best friend or bae.

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.”

Auburn Opelika Spa Named Marriott's Best

The Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort and Spa at Grand National was named Marriott’s best spa in North America for 2019, according to data recently released by Marriott International.

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.

Alabama’s First STEM Preschool Opening in Auburn

The half-day preschool will focus on a concept-based, hands-on, active curriculum targeting children ages 12 months to 5 years. Additionally, the school will offer multiple STEM camps for children ages 3-6 years during holidays and over the summers.

Never Fear - Daylight Savings is No Longer Here!

At 12 a.m. on Sunday, November 3, all of America moved their clocks back an hour to “fall back” in accordance to the end of Daylight Savings Time.

Ever wonder how 75 minutes could change your life?

Tipoff at Toomers Corner Auburn, AL

Ariccia Hosting Nationally Renowned Wine Maker for First Alabama Wine Dinner

Ariccia Cucina will host nationally renowned winery Small Vines for its first Alabama wine dinner on Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2019, at 6 p.m.

Be our Guest: Lucy's Premieres Guest Chef Series

Known for its modern vibe, culinary wonders and extensive cocktail list, Lucy’s neighborhood eatery is debuting an exciting new guest chef series. Each guest chef will collaborate with Lucy’s executive chef Brian Paolina to bring a different experience and exciting dishes for guests to enjoy.

Girls in Aviation Day returns to the AUO Airport

Now in its second year, Girls in Aviation Day is returning to the Auburn University Regional Airport on October 19, 2019 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

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.

Bones & Boos is Back at the AU Arboretum

Come explore the natural world at the second annual Bones & Boos at the Donald E. Davis Arboretum, October 12, from 12 – 4 p.m. This one-day outdoor exhibit of animal skeletons is hosted by the Davis Arboretum, the Auburn University Museum of Natural History and the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine.

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!

New eagle takes flight at Auburn University

A new golden eagle has joined Auburn’s famed eagle roster as one of two eagles that will carry on the traditional pregame flights.

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.

Johnny Ray Century to start & end at Red Clay Brewery on Sept. 7

The 17th annual Johnny Ray Century will take place on September 7, starting and ending at Red Clay Brewing Company in downtown Opelika.

Everything You Need To Know About Auburn Fan Day 2019

This annual preseason event gives Tiger fans a unique opportunity to interact with their favorite players and coaches.

2019 Auburn Oktoberfest Slated for Sept. 21

Foodies everywhere can rejoice as this year's "100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die" list is out! Sweet Home Alabama's trusted guide to dining throughout the state features numerous Auburn-Opelika delicacies. Have you tried them all?

Opelika's RTJ Grand National listed in The Best Golf Courses in Alabama by Golf Digest

Opelika's RTJ Grand National was recently named one of The Best Golf Courses in Alabama by Golf Digest!

See a sloth at the Auburn-Opelika Wildlife Festival on Aug. 2-3

See a sloth, make friends with an armadillo or encounter an opossum at the Auburn-Opelika Wildlife Festival on August 2-3, 2019. Dozens of animals will be on display during this interactive and educational event taking place at the Village Event Center located at 804 Columbus Parkway in Opelika.

1st Avenue in Opelika is quickly becoming the hippest block in town. North of the railroad tracks in historic downtown Opelika you'll find Mama Mochas Coffee Bodega, Griff Goods, Resting Pulse Brewery and more!

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.

Hotel at Auburn University Achieves Coveted AAA Four Diamond Rating

The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center, an Ithaka Hospitality Partners managed property owned by Auburn University, has achieved the coveted AAA Four Diamond Rating, placing it among the best in the country according to the organization’s high inspection standards.

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.

Celebrate the Fourth of July in Auburn-Opeika

Celebrate the Fourth of July in Auburn-Opelika with these annual firework shows.

Resting Pulse Brewery opens in downtown Opelika

Resting Pulse Brewing Company is an environment where you can come to find your “resting pulse” – to relax and spend time with friends and family while exploring new and exciting local craft beers. Our goal was to retain the rustic industrial design of the original building while providing for a relaxed atmosphere both inside the brewery and in our outdoor patio.

As many might already know, the Miss Alabama USA pageant is coming to the new Gogue Performing Arts Center in October, and nobody could be more excited about it than our very own Miss Auburn-Opelika, Kelly Hutchinson.

The Auburn Story as told by Social Media

Auburn, Alabama was put on the map after this year's basketball success took the team to the Final Four. With the sudden national attention, Auburn University took to social media to educate the vast amount of new followers. Enjoy this mini-lesson on the coolest college town in the South as told by Instagram

Looking for ways to get outdoors and active this year? We've got you covered! Check out this list of ways to run, bike and swim around Auburn-Opelika in 2019.

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.

AU Fisheries to hold Field Day event on April 6

Auburn University’s School of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Science will be hosting Fisheries Field Day on Saturday, April 6, 2019, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the E.W. Shell Fisheries Station.

Robyn Bridges elected to board of directors for Southeast Tourism Society

Robyn Bridges, vice president of Auburn-Opelika Tourism, has been elected to a two-year term on the board of the Southeast Tourism Society (STS).

The Easter Seals Achievement Center in Opelika is a service unmatched in the Auburn-Opelika area. The Achievement Center provides industrial services to the community and employment and vocational services to individuals with physical, mental, and developmental disabilities.

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!

Professional Golf Returning to Auburn-Opelika: RTJ Golf Trail Adds Third Tournament in 2019

The Symetra Tour, official qualifying Tour for the LPGA, will be playing a professional golf tournament May 23 - 26 on the Lake Course at the RTJ Grand National in Opelika, Alabama.

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.

Twin Pines Dual Slalom Offers Outdoor Thrill at Chewacla

Grab a buddy and head to the Twin Pines Dual Slalom at Chewacla State Park. This exciting mountain biking trail where friends can compete in a head-to-head race was built in the summer of 2018 by Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers, or CAMP. This slalom is the only one of its kind in the Southeast, making it a mountain biker's must-see!

Three Alabama Spas Named Among the 100 Best in North America

The No. 1 spa and wellness travel website unveiled its Top 100 Spas for 2018, based on unique page views and consumer choices on spasofamerica.com. Three of these spas are in Alabama and part of the RTJ Spa Trail.

The holiday ice rink is returning to Auburn-Opelika this season. Only this year, the rink will more than double in size and feature real ice.

Wrap up an experience - give your camper the Gift of Camp! Here’s how it works:

Hospitality Gala Raises Funds for Hospitality Management Program

Supporters of the Auburn University Hospitality Management Program donned their sequins and tuxedos Thursday evening for the 27th annual Hospitality Gala. Gala guests enjoyed a meet and taste with chefs and winemakers during the Tattinger champagne reception, where they bid on a variety of silent auction items. Visiting chefs showcased a delicious variety of small bites while guests mingled in the

La Quinta Inn & Suites is first hotel in the state to introduce robot butler

Opelika’s newest hotel, the La Quinta Inn & Suites, introduced a delivery service robot, affectionately named TigerBot. The La Quinta is the first property in Alabama to implement the room service robot.

City of Opelika to showcase new Christmas decorations in downtown historic district

The City of Opelika has made it a priority to spruce up the holidays this year by investing in new Christmas decorations for the Downtown Historic District.

Auburn opens 2018-19 season ranked No. 11

The Auburn men’s basketball team opens the 2018-19 season ranked No. 11 in the preseason Associated Press Top 25 Poll. It is the highest the Tigers have been ranked to open a season since 1999.

The Hotel at Auburn University Is Honored With ConventionSouth’s Annual Readers’ Choice Award

It is with honor that the publishers and editors of ConventionSouth, the national multimedia resource for planning events in the South, present The Hotel at Auburn University & Dixon Conference Center with a 2018 Readers’ Choice Award.

2018 Oktoberfest Coming Oct. 6; Tickets on Sale Now

The sights, sounds, and tastes of Germany are making their way to Auburn University’s Ag Heritage Park for the ninth annual Oktoberfest. The event will take place at the park on Oct. 6 from 3-7 p.m., and will feature traditional German fare, beers from breweries across the U.S., a selection of German wines, food trucks, craft tables, and live entertainment.

Countdown to the 10 Year Anniversary of Opelika SportsPlex

The Opelika SportsPlex and Aquatics Center will celebrate its 10 Year Anniversary next August, and in the spirit of recreation, they have decided to count down to this milestone with a year-long celebration.

ESPN’s Herbstreit Names Hotel at Auburn University Among “Best in College Football” in Annual List

ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit, college football analyst, commentator and fixture on ESPN’s “College Gameday,” has named The Hotel at Auburn University among the Best Hotels in his 2018 “Herbies.”

Delta has partnered with Auburn University to launch an industry-leading program for the next generation of pilots

AO Tourism welcomes new staff member/position

The Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau (AOTB) has announced the addition of new staff member Anthony Terling, sports and event development manager for the growing organization.

Oktoberfest & Gingerbread Village at AUHCC Named as Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Events

Southeast Tourism Society (STS) has named two events at The Hotel at Auburn University as top events in the Southeast.

Towneplace Suites Auburn Wins Multiple Marriott Awards

The TownePlace Suites hotel in Auburn, Alabama has been officially recognized by Marriott, earning multiple prestigious awards for the McNeill Hotel Company property.