Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, visiting family or friends, touring Auburn University, or passing through on your next road trip, there's no better place to experience authentic Southern hospitality than Auburn-Opelika.

Home to two charming downtown districts, award-winning restaurants, beautiful outdoor spaces, and Auburn University, our community offers something for every kind of traveler. From cheering on the Tigers in Jordan-Hare Stadium to sipping craft cocktails in historic downtown Opelika, your first visit is just the beginning. Watch our quick guide below, then keep reading for even more ideas to help you make the most of your trip.

 

1. Start with Auburn University

No first trip to Auburn-Opelika is complete without exploring Auburn University's beautiful campus. Stroll beneath the iconic oak trees, admire Samford Hall, visit the Auburn University Bookstore, and snap a photo at Toomer's Corner. Before you leave, stop by Toomer's Drugs for a freshly squeezed lemonade, a tradition that has welcomed generations of Auburn students, alumni, and visitors alike. Related: Auburn-Opelika Gameday Trail

2. Explore Two Distinct Downtowns

One of the things that makes Auburn-Opelika special is that you're really visiting two downtown experiences, each with its own personality. Downtown Auburn is lively and energetic, offering locally owned restaurants, boutiques, rooftop dining, coffee shops, and entertainment just steps from Auburn University's campus. Just a few minutes away, historic downtown Opelika invites visitors to slow down and explore beautifully restored buildings filled with unique shops, art galleries, breweries, live music, and local restaurants. Take time to enjoy both. Each offers a different perspective on our destination.

3. Enjoy an Unforgettable Meal

Auburn-Opelika has quietly become one of Alabama's premier food destinations. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for an incredible meal, you'll find everything from elevated Southern cuisine and chef-driven restaurants to casual local favorites. A few visitor favorites include:

4. Spend Time Outdoors

Looking to balance great food with fresh air? Head to Chewacla State Park, one of Auburn-Opelika's most popular outdoor destinations. Here you'll find scenic hiking trails, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking, camping, picnic areas, and one of the area's most photographed waterfalls. If you're visiting during cooler weather, it's the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon before heading back downtown for dinner.

5. Raise a Glass

Auburn-Opelika's craft beverage scene continues to grow each year. Sample handcrafted spirits at John Emerald Distilling Company, Alabama's first legal distillery since Prohibition, or enjoy locally brewed beer at one of our breweries throughout the community. If you're interested in tasting your way around town, check out the Opelika Spirits Trail for a self-guided experience featuring local favorites.

6. Discover Local Art and Shopping

From locally owned boutiques and antique stores to public art and galleries, Auburn-Opelika offers plenty to explore between meals. Browse unique shops in both downtown districts, visit the Auburn-Opelika Art Showcase featuring local artists, or spend an afternoon searching for treasures along the Antique Trail. You'll leave with something far more memorable than a souvenir.

7. Plan Around an Event

Every season brings something new to Auburn-Opelika. Depending on when you visit, you may find yourself enjoying football weekends, outdoor concerts, festivals, art walks, holiday celebrations, food events, or sporting tournaments. Before your trip, be sure to check our Events Calendar to see what's happening during your stay.

Make It a Weekend

While you can experience many highlights in a day, Auburn-Opelika is best enjoyed over a weekend. Spend one day exploring Auburn University's campus and downtown Auburn, then dedicate another to discovering historic downtown Opelika, outdoor adventures, shopping, and dining. You'll quickly understand why so many visitors return year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Auburn-Opelika known for? Auburn-Opelika is known for Auburn University, exceptional dining, Southern hospitality, charming downtowns, outdoor recreation, and year-round events.

Is Auburn-Opelika family friendly? Absolutely. Families enjoy parks, playgrounds, museums, Chewacla State Park, local festivals, sporting events, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants and attractions.

When is the best time to visit? Every season offers something unique. Fall brings football and beautiful weather, spring is filled with blooming landscapes and festivals, summer offers outdoor adventures and family activities, and the holidays transform both downtowns with festive events and decorations.

How many days should I spend in Auburn-Opelika? A weekend is ideal for first-time visitors, giving you enough time to experience Auburn University's campus, both downtown districts, local restaurants, outdoor recreation, and shopping.

Start Planning Your Visit

Whether you're coming for an Auburn football game, a relaxing weekend getaway, a business trip, or simply passing through, we hope your first visit to Auburn-Opelika is the first of many.

Explore our Visitors Guide, browse upcoming events, discover local trails, and find the perfect place to stay. We can't wait to welcome you.