A lot can change in a year, and Auburn-Opelika is buzzing with fresh spots to eat, shop, and explore since last football season. From trendy eateries to interactive experiences, here's everything new to check out in 2025, just in time for game day.

 

Crossing Toomer’s, Redesigned

Downtown Auburn has introduced a new X-crossing at the intersection of College Street and Magnolia Avenue. This updated pattern stops all vehicle traffic with NO right turns on red. This allows pedestrians to cross in every direction, including diagonally, during a dedicated walk signal. This is designed to improve safety and flow at the iconic Toomer’s Corner. 

 

Experience the Magic of Auburn-Opelika

The Auburn-Opelika Experience is an immersive and interactive visitor experience located inside the Opelika Chamber of Commerce. In partnership with Storyland Studios, this one-of-a-kind space uses big video walls, touchscreens, and local stories to help you explore everything that makes Auburn-Opelika special.

 

Wine, Dine, and Unwind

Piedmont on Piedmont is a stylish, authentic Italian wine bar and eatery located in downtown Opelika. They offer a relaxed yet refined atmosphere perfect for sipping curated wines, enjoying pasta plates, and gathering with friends. 

 

Parisian Plates with Southern Grace

Cafe de Fleur brings French bistro charm to Auburn with a menu full of Parisian classics. Located in Moores Mill, Cafe de Fleur blends European style with Southern warmth, making it a favorite for brunch, weekday lunches, and romantic dinners. 

 

Where Pickleball Meets Lifestyle

This locally owned pickleball boutique has a new name and location! Now right off of Opelika Road, The Pickleball Store at Auburn blends sport and style with high-quality paddles, athletic apparel, home goods, and fun pickleball-inspired gifts.

 

Local Art, On Display

This rotating gallery exhibit inside Auburn-Opelika Tourism's Auburn location features the Auburn Opelika Art Showcase with work from local artists. It's an easy stop to explore local creativity and maybe even take a piece home!

Auburn-Opelika Art Showcase

Each piece tells a story, and all are available for purchase directly from the artist— making it easy to take home a truly special keepsake while supporting the local art scene.

Painting by John Robert Willer

 

A New Way to Play at Chewacla

Chewacla State Park recently unveiled a brand-new, fully accessible GameTime playground. This inclusive play space underscores Alabama State Parks’ commitment to accessibility and quality family recreation, offering engaging equipment and thoughtful design that welcomes children of all abilities. Families can enjoy a safe, fun environment that encourages active play, social interaction, and outdoor exploration.

 

Home-Style Mexican - Your Next Brunch Stop

Como en Casa is a family-run favorite in Opelika offering made-from-scratch Mexican breakfast and lunch with a warm, welcoming vibe. The menu features authentic dishes like huevos rancheros, torta de chilaquiles, along with flavorful house margaritas in options such as passion fruit and spicy skinny.

 

Dress your Best

Locally owned and rooted in Auburn tradition, Circa Auburn is a premium men’s clothier blending timeless style with a fresh perspective. The shop layers classic patterns, textures, and cuts with modern sensibility—creating effortless opportunities for personal expression. More than just a store, Circa connects with its customers as part of a shared community and legacy, helping each one find confidence and joy through style. Focused on pieces that are sophisticated yet bold, enduring yet adventurous, Circa embodies Auburn’s spirit: honoring history while looking forward to what’s next.

 

Auburn-Opelika’s Indian Flavor Scene

The Auburn-Opelika area is home to a growing lineup of Indian dining, each offering its own take on bold, aromatic flavors. The Fusion Rasoi puts a modern spin on Indian classics with creative dishes such as chili paneer tacos and butter chicken fries. India Palace serves traditional favorites like biryani, butter chicken, and fresh naan in a warm, welcoming setting. Tandoori Flame Pizza fuses Indian spices with cheesy, oven-baked comfort, creating unique pies like butter chicken and paneer tikka pizza. Together, these spots bring a mix of authentic tradition, inventive fusion, and fresh flavor to the local food scene.

 

Family Fun For All

Lake Wilmore Park Recreation Center is Auburn’s newest spot for recreation and community wellness. Lake Wilmore features a scenic 2.5-mile walking trail, peaceful lake views, and a brand-new recreation center. There are memberships and day passes available for the heated pool, indoor track, fitness center, and basketball courts. Additionally, there are 12 public pickleball courts with 6 more on the way. Floral Park in Opelika is a 30-acre, all-inclusive community space designed for play, connection, and accessibility. With an adaptive playground, splash pad, athletic fields, pavilions, and plenty of room to explore, it’s built for every age and ability. FUNtastic is an indoor family fun center in Opelika featuring play zones for all ages, climbing walls, an arcade, and party rooms. With a colorful, clean space and options like sensory-friendly hours, it’s a go-to for playdates, birthdays, and everyday fun.

 

More New Things To Explore in Auburn-Opelika

Boulangerie has moved to downtown Opelika! Known for artisan pastries, breads, coffee, and friendly service, this local favorite is bringing its signature charm to a new space. Come stop by, grab a coffee, and explore historic downtown Opelika! 

Savanh Thai Takeout is a new location of Savanh Thai Kitchen that serves bold, authentic Thai flavors to go, crafted by a local family with care, passion, and tradition in every bite.