New Facility = New Money

Since its grand opening in March 2025, the Lake Wilmore Park Recreation Center has quickly become one of Auburn’s most exciting new spaces, not just for athletes but for the entire community, and Auburn-Opelika Tourism (AOT) has worked to maximize the city’s investment. The facility represents a major step forward in expanding opportunities for recreation and competition in Lee County.

New Possibilities, Right at Home

With over 3,000 athletes already hosted since opening, Lake Wilmore is changing the game for local sports. The center has made it possible for AOT to bring in events that were once out of reach, including the USA Youth Gymnastics Meet, the C1N 7v7 Football Tournament led by a former professional player, and USA Wheelchair Handball Team training camps for the World Championships.

Local organizations are benefiting, as well. From Limitbreakers Gymnastics and Cheer’s inaugural meet to Southern Pickleball tournaments and youth soccer through Snap Soccer and the Auburn Soccer Club, the facility is creating space for both homegrown and national-level competition.

" Our mission is to make the community better for the people who live and work here every day,” says Robyn Bridges, president & CEO of AOT. “Collaborating with our partners and leveraging local investment in facilities to provide maximum return is a cornerstone of our stewardship and purpose-driven service.”

Community Impact Beyond Sports

While Lake Wilmore is making headlines for its tournaments, its impact extends well beyond sports. The facility includes multi-use rooms for after-school programs and community meetings, an aquatics center that fills a regional need for swim training and lessons, and multi-use turf fields that host everything from football and lacrosse to family-friendly outdoor movie nights.

Each event and program at Lake Wilmore brings new energy and economic value to Auburn. Through AOT’s sports tourism efforts, tax dollars are reinvested into the community, supporting local hotels, restaurants, and small businesses while giving residents opportunities to play and participate close to home.

Inclusive Growth Through Adapted Sports

AOT is also expanding its work in adapted athletics, partnering with national organizations to make Auburn-Opelika a destination for athletes of all abilities. Hosting USA Wheelchair Handball camps is just the beginning. Lake Wilmore provides an accessible and inclusive space where every athlete can play, compete, and succeed.

The Limitbreakers Lockdown Gymnastics Meet, a competition planned for more than two years by AOT and local gym leadership, allowed area athletes to compete and celebrate their achievements right at home while drawing visitors who supported local businesses throughout the weekend.

From expanding adapted sports to building new recreational opportunities for youth and adults, Lake Wilmore has quickly become a cornerstone of the Auburn-Opelika community. With AOT’s continued support, this facility isn’t just hosting events, it's helping create experiences, strengthen community, and shape the future of recreation in Lee County.