Visit Like a Local

Toomers corner during sunset
Matt Busbee

THE AUBURN-OPELIKA EXPLORER

Welcome to the Visit Auburn-Opelika Blog!

Get to know Auburn-Opelika, Alabama, through local stories, travel tips, and recommendations from people who know the area best. From favorite restaurants and upcoming events to arts and culture, outdoor adventures, and Auburn football traditions, our blog offers inspiration and practical advice for planning your next visit.

16 Things to Do in Auburn-Opelika This Winter

Winter in Auburn-Opelika, Alabama, is full of reasons to get out of the house. Cheer on the Tigers at Neville Arena, sip cocktails inside a rooftop Boozy Bubble, browse locally owned shops, and explore downtown Opelika's museums and entertainment. From holiday events in December to Oysterfest in…

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Chef Series: The Depot's Chef Walker Hughes

The Depot’s Chef Walker Hughes At The Depot in Auburn, fresh seafood, creative dishes and a historic setting make for a memorable dining experience. Chef de Cuisine Walker Hughes is bringing his own perspective to the kitchen while honoring the traditions that have made the restaurant a standout in…

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A Brief History of the Opelika Victorian Front Porch Tour

Each December, the quiet streets of Opelika’s historic district turn into a nostalgic winter wonderland. More than 50 Victorian-style homes are dressed up with vintage life-sized Santas, angels, and holiday figures. The Victorian Front Porch Tour has become one of the area’s most beloved and…

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A Brief History of Toomer's Oaks

Toomer’s Corner is one of Auburn’s most recognizable landmarks. It is where students and fans gather to celebrate, capture photos, and take part in one of college football’s most beloved traditions. But the oak trees that now anchor the corner are not the same ones that stood for generations. The…

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Performance Pools for Swimming and Diving in Auburn-Opelika

Aquatics events demand more than a set of lanes. Competitive swimmers need consistent water conditions, reliable timing, and space to warm up and cool down. Divers need specialized depths, boards, and platforms. Coaches, officials, athletes, and spectators need facilities designed to support the…

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Pickleball, Tennis, and Court Sports in Auburn-Opelika

Across three facilities, Auburn-Opelika offers 51 dedicated pickleball courts and 34 tennis courts, creating a court-sports lineup built for both everyday play and competitive events. Some courts are covered, six are indoors, and the tennis inventory includes both hard and clay surfaces. Together…

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