Camp War Eagle Must-Dos: Your Ultimate Guide to Auburn University Orientation

Auburn University orientation, better known as Camp War Eagle (CWE), is an exciting first step in your journey as an Auburn Tiger! Whether you're a student eager to meet new friends or a parent looking to learn more about campus life, CWE is packed with must-dos to set you up for success. Here's your go-to guide for making the most of orientation.

CWE Lawn

The Night Before CWE

Kick off your Auburn experience by exploring downtown Auburn! This is the perfect time to get familiar with the area, grab a bite to eat, and soak in the town’s charm. Some must-dos for the night before:

  • Try out one of Auburn’s popular restaurants! Whether you're craving pizza, burgers, or Southern comfort food, Auburn has plenty of options. Local favorites include The Hound, Amsterdam Cafe, and Hamilton’s. Check out Best Bites on our webpage for more options and information on reservations!

  • Walk around Downtown Auburn and browse the shops before they close. Stores like J&M Bookstore offer great Auburn apparel, perfect for showing off your school spirit.

  • Relax at Laurel Hotel’s rooftop bar. Grab snacks with your parents and enjoy a scenic view of Auburn while unwinding before the big day ahead.

Downtown Auburn

CWE for Parents and Students

Orientation isn’t just for students—parents also have sessions designed to help them learn about Auburn University student resources, class registration, and campus life. While students attend their scheduled activities, parents can explore campus, visit Jordan-Hare Stadium, or even check out Auburn University traditions like rolling Toomer’s Corner.

Parents @ CWE

Where to Eat in Auburn on Your Free Lunch Day!

One of the best parts of CWE? Free lunch day! Auburn is known for its fantastic local food scene, and CWE participants can eat lunch wherever they want on one of the days of orientation. Check out these great options:

  • Amsterdam Cafe – Famous for its Turkey Wrap and casual atmosphere.

  • Hamilton’s – A great spot for salads, seafood, and Southern-inspired dishes.

  • Irritable Bao – A student-favorite serving up delicious, creative bao buns.

  • Big Blue Bagel – The go-to place for a quick breakfast or lunch.

  • Tacorita – If tacos and margaritas (for parents) sound good, this is the place.

  • Draft House – Known for its relaxed vibe and great burgers.

  • Hey Day Market – Auburn’s modern food hall with multiple vendors to choose from.

  • Ariccia Cucina – A cozy Italian eatery with pasta and wood-fired pizzas.

  • The Hound – Rustic and inviting, perfect for bacon lovers.

  • Little Italy’s – Late-night pizza that hits the spot.

  • Mellow Mushroom – A funky pizzeria with delicious, creative pies.

Be sure to take advantage of this chance to try some of Auburn’s best bites!

Food - Amsterdam

After Camp: What’s Next?

Once CWE wraps up, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Auburn and prepare for your first semester:

  • Take an Auburn University campus tour to get even more familiar with where your classes will be.

  • Visit Auburn University dorms if possible, to get a feel for where you'll be living.

  • Find out what you can do in Auburn, AL, such as Toomer's Corner, Jordan-Hare Stadium, the Donald E. Davis Arboretum, Chewacla State Park, or even the downtown area of Opelika, to get a taste of what’s happening in and around Auburn, AL.

  • Plan for class registration by reviewing your schedule and mapping out your routes to each building.

  • Stock up on Auburn gear from J&M Bookstore, the Auburn University Bookstore, Stamp, Alumni Hall, Scarlett & Gold, or the Auburn Tigers Team Shop.

J&M Bookstore

CWE is more than just orientation—it’s your first experience as part of the Auburn family. By making the most of Auburn student life, checking out Auburn University traditions, and getting a head start on your college experience, you’ll be set for success from day one. War Eagle, and welcome to Auburn!