THE AUBURN-OPELIKA EXPLORER

Planning a visit to Auburn-Opelika? Look no further than these pages of carefully curated experiences and itineraries for visitors of all ages and interests! From upcoming events to the newest restaurants and hot spots, you can visit Auburn-Opelika like a local with these seasonally inspired travel ideas!

New Things Since Last Football Season- 2024 Edition

Listen up, Tigers fans! A lot has changed on the Plains since last football season. Get ready to eat, drink, shop, and play at all of these new, must-visit spots in Auburn-Opelika. Bunkers Bunkers is Auburn’s first full cocktail bar and restaurant with indoor sports simulators ranging from golf to…

Read More

The Local Behind Living & Local

When asked how Hope would describe Auburn she says, “It is like if a comfort food was a town. It is like fried green tomatoes and pimento cheese, the epitome of the South and comfort food, and it will never disappoint.” Although many people might not know the name Hope Nunnelley, over 9,165 people…

Read More

Sports tourism boom: Alabama visitor spending bolstered by sports

In 2022, more than 28.6 million travelers to the state of Alabama spent a record $22.4 billion, contributing 238,741 jobs statewide, reports the Alabama Tourism Department. According to Sports Alabama, sports tourism – a crucial piece of the travel industry pie – produced an estimated $235.45…

Read More

7 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! In Auburn-Opelika, there are countless ways to support…

Read More

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…

Read More

2nd Annual Burger Battles

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…

Read More

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. John Wild, current AOT president, will retire on that date after almost 19 years of service. Robyn currently serves as vice president of the organization where she…

Read More

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 at the annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism. Awards are…

Read More