Sportcation Guide: Youth (Ages 6-18)
From team-friendly hotels and classic local bites to trampoline parks, splash pads, arcades, and outdoor fun, this guide covers everything families need for a smooth, energetic sportcation. Explore lodging, activities, entertainment, dining, and wellness options built for young athletes and their crew.
Stay
Comfortable, convenient, and team-friendly lodging options designed for youth sports travel. These properties offer space to spread out, on-site amenities, and the flexibility families and coaches need for a smooth weekend.
TownePlace Suites Auburn
Spacious suites with kitchens, free breakfast, and laundry which is ideal for teams and extended stays.
Staybridge Suites Auburn
An excellent team friendly hotel. Has free laundry service and other team friendly amenities.
Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National
Amazing for youth teams and families, with large rooms, on-site dining, and easy access to nearby fields. Outdoor pool complex has water slides and splash zones.
Dine
From quick, casual meals to nostalgic drive-ins and group-friendly spots, these local favorites serve up crowd-pleasing comfort food perfect for teams and families on the go.
Bow & Arrow
A family friendly smokehouse blending Alabama BBQ & tex mex flavors.
Niffer's
A vibrant Auburn institution known for its burgers, wings, nachos, and generous kids’ menu.
Hey Day Market
A lively food hall featuring nine stalls including burgers, ramen, pizza, gelato, & more.
Mrs. Story's Dairy Bar
Staple in Opelika since 1952, known for chili dogs, footlong hot dogs, fries, and milkshakes.
Byron's Smokehouse
Southern‑style BBQ and hearty breakfast plates that have become an AO favorite.
Activities & Entertainment
When the game ends, the fun continues. These local attractions offer active, engaging ways for kids to burn off extra energy and explore Auburn-Opelika in between matchups.
Toomer's Lemonade
A classic Auburn tradition and a sweet treat after a day of games. Explore Auburn history and enjoy…
Southeastern Raptor Center Tour
A behind-the-scenes experience where visitors can meet Auburn’s iconic eagles and other birds of…
FUNtastic
An indoor family fun center with ball pits, games, and more kid-friendly activities.
AMC Classic Auburn 14
Easygoing movie night for teams looking to relax indoors after game play.
Surge Trampoline Park
Wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and obstacle courses for high-energy fun.
Chewacla State Park
New playground plus hiking trails, a scenic waterfall, lake swimming, fishing spots, and shaded…
GoodTimes Bowling
Bowling lanes, games, and group-friendly fun near downtown.
Health & Wellness
Give young athletes the chance to stay active, recharge, or relax with wellness-centered spaces designed for all ages. Great for active rest days or winding down after competition.
Opelika SportsPlex & Aquatics Center
Teens 14+ can access the fitness center with supervision, 12 covered pickleball courts are available for casual play and clinics, scenic walking trails, and a shaded amphitheater to offer quiet space between games.
Kreher Preserve & Nature Center
Shaded woodland trails and nature programs make this a peaceful spot for a walk, reflection, or learning break outdoors.