25+ Unforgettable Things To Do In Auburn, AL: Your Ultimate Guide To The Loveliest Village On The Plains
What are the best things to do in Auburn, Alabama? This question sparks the imagination of anyone planning a visit to this vibrant college town, a place where Southern charm, deep-rooted history, and passionate sports culture collide to create an experience unlike any other in the Southeast. Nestled in the heart of Lee County, Auburn is far more than just the home of the Auburn Tigers; it's a destination brimming with hidden gems, outdoor adventures, artistic flair, and culinary delights waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a prospective student touring campus, a family on a weekend getaway, a sports fanatic, or a traveler seeking authentic Southern hospitality, this comprehensive guide will navigate you through the very best that Auburn has to offer. From the roar of Jordan-Hare Stadium to the serene trails of the Opelika-Auburn News Paddle Trail, prepare to fall in love with the Loveliest Village on the Plains.
1. Immerse Yourself in the Legendary Auburn University Campus Experience
No visit to Auburn is complete without spending quality time on the iconic Auburn University campus, the beating heart of the community. The campus itself is a registered arboretum, meaning it’s a living museum of trees and plants, making every stroll a picturesque experience. Start your journey at the Auburn University Welcome Center in the Samford Hall clock tower area to grab a map and get your bearings. The majestic Samford Hall, with its distinctive clock tower, is the undisputed symbol of the university and a mandatory photo stop.
A Walking Tour Through History and Tradition
Take a self-guided tour to key landmarks. See the Auburn Arena, home to championship basketball and gymnastics, and the Jane B. Moore Field, where the powerhouse softball team plays. Don't miss the Ralph B. Draughon Library, a modern hub of knowledge, and the beautiful Campus Green, a sprawling lawn perfect for relaxing. For a dose of history, visit the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, which houses an impressive collection of European, American, and Asian art, alongside rotating exhibitions. The museum's outdoor sculpture garden is a peaceful retreat.
The Sacred Grounds of Toomer's Corner
A pilgrimage for any Auburn faithful (and a fascinating cultural site for any visitor) is Toomer's Corner. This intersection of College Street and Magnolia Avenue is hallowed ground in college football lore. The tradition of "rolling the corner"—covering the historic oak trees and street corners with thousands of sheets of toilet paper following a big victory—is a unique, messy, and joyous spectacle. Even on non-game days, the corner is buzzing with energy from the shops and cafes lining it. The original oaks, though replanted after a tragic poisoning incident, stand as resilient symbols of Auburn spirit. Understanding this tradition is key to understanding Auburn's soul.
2. Cheer on the Auburn Tigers: A Game Day Like No Other
If you want to experience the true, unfiltered passion of Auburn, you must attend an Auburn Tigers game day. This isn't just a sporting event; it's a semester-defining ritual for students and a bucket-list experience for fans. The atmosphere is electric, communal, and deeply traditional.
The Roar of Jordan-Hare Stadium
On football Saturdays, the campus transforms. The air smells of barbecue and optimism. The sound of the Auburn University Marching Band, the "Pride of the Southland," practicing their pre-game show echoes across campus. The most iconic pre-game tradition is the Tiger Walk. Approximately two hours before kickoff, thousands of fans line the street behind the stadium to cheer as the team, led by coaches and players, walks from their locker room to the stadium tunnel. It's an intimate, powerful moment of connection between the team and its supporters. Inside Jordan-Hare Stadium, the noise level is deafening, especially during the playing of the fight song, "War Eagle." The eagle's flight over the stadium before every game is a breathtaking sight.
Beyond Football: A Year-Round Athletic Powerhouse
Auburn's athletic excellence isn't limited to fall Saturdays. The men's and women's basketball teams in the sleek Auburn Arena provide high-energy indoor excitement. The gymnastics program is consistently ranked #1 in the nation, offering a spectacle of incredible athleticism. Baseball at Plainsman Park is considered one of the best college baseball experiences in the country, with a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Softball at Jane B. Moore Field is a powerhouse program with a passionate following. Check the athletic schedule and grab tickets to whichever sport fits your visit—you'll witness world-class talent and fan dedication.
3. Explore the Great Outdoors: Parks, Trails, and Nature
For those seeking a respite from the crowds, Auburn and the surrounding Lee County area offer surprising and beautiful outdoor recreational opportunities. The area's rolling hills and abundant waterways make it a haven for nature lovers.
The Opelika-Auburn News Paddle Trail
A premier attraction is the Opelika-Auburn News Paddle Trail, a 9-mile scenic waterway along the Tallapoosa River. You can rent kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddleboards from local outfitters like Opelika Kayak or Auburn University's Outdoor Recreation. The trail is suitable for all skill levels, with calm stretches perfect for beginners and a few gentle rapids for a touch of adventure. Paddling past lush riverbanks, spotting birds like herons and kingfishers, and perhaps even a beaver or two is a fantastic way to see the area from a completely different perspective. It's a perfect warm-weather activity.
Chewacla State Park: A Natural Gem
Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Auburn lies Chewacla State Park, a 696-acre paradise featuring a stunning 70-foot waterfall, Chewacla Falls. The park offers hiking and mountain biking trails for all abilities, from the easy, paved Canyon Trail alongside the creek to challenging single-track bike trails. You can swim in the natural rock-bottom creek holes (the "beach" area below the falls is popular), have a picnic, or rent a cozy cabin. The park's history as a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) project in the 1930s adds a layer of historical interest to its natural beauty.
Municipal Parks and Green Spaces
Closer to town, Kiesel Park is a 80-acre gem with a large playground, walking trails, a duck pond, and sports fields. It's a favorite for families. Town Creek Park offers a more rustic feel with walking trails through wooded areas. The Donald E. Davis Arboretum on the Auburn University campus is not just for botany enthusiasts; it's a beautifully curated 13.5-acre showcase of Southeastern native plants, with walking paths, a pond, and a stunning canopy of mature trees—a perfect spot for a quiet stroll.
4. Savor the Flavors: Auburn's Thriving Food and Drink Scene
Auburn has transformed from a college-town food scene dominated by pizza and wings into a culinary destination with sophisticated tastes and local pride. The city is a hotbed for farm-to-table dining, craft breweries, and unique eateries.
A Taste of the South, Reimagined
For a special occasion or a memorable meal, Acre is a standout. Housed in a renovated warehouse, it focuses on wood-fired dishes and hyper-local ingredients, often from its own farm. The Lee County Butcher is a celebrated spot for elevated Southern cuisine and an impressive craft cocktail list. For a more casual but equally delicious experience, Niffer's Place is an Auburn institution serving upscale pub food and famously huge burgers in a lively, rustic setting. Don't miss The Auburn Creamery, a local favorite for gourmet sandwiches, salads, and, of course, ice cream.
Craft Beer and Local Libations
Auburn's craft beer scene is robust. The Red Brick Brewing Company (in nearby Opelika) is Alabama's oldest craft brewery and offers tours and a taproom. Up and Tap in downtown Auburn features a massive selection of local and regional craft beers on tap. For coffee lovers, Auburn's Coffee and The Press Shop are community hubs serving expertly brewed java. For a unique experience, visit The Cellar, a speakeasy-style bar hidden beneath a restaurant, requiring you to find the secret entrance.
5. Dive into History, Art, and Culture
Beyond the university, Auburn and the neighboring city of Opelika are rich with history, art, and cultural attractions that tell the story of the region.
The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art (JCSM)
Already mentioned as a campus stop, JCSM deserves its own highlight. It's one of the premier art museums in the Southeast, with a permanent collection spanning 5,000 years. Its current special exhibitions are always worth checking. The museum is also home to the Auburn University Museum of Natural History, which features fascinating exhibits on Alabama's biodiversity, geology, and archaeology, including a dinosaur fossil collection. It's a perfect indoor activity for a hot afternoon or a rainy day.
Historic Downtown Opelika: A Short Drive Away
Just 10 miles west is historic downtown Opelika, which has undergone a stunning renaissance. The Opelika Railroad Depot and the Museum of East Alabama provide a deep dive into the area's railroading and local history. The Opelika Arts Council promotes a vibrant arts scene. Strolling the brick-lined streets, you'll find beautifully restored late 19th and early 20th-century buildings housing antique shops, boutiques, art galleries, and excellent restaurants like The Warehouse and Rooster's Barn & Grill. The annual Opelika Main Street Christmas parade and Dickens Festival are legendary.
The Auburn University Raptor Center
A truly unique attraction, the Auburn University Raptor Center is part of the College of Veterinary Medicine. It houses a variety of birds of prey—eagles, hawks, owls, falcons—many of which are injured and being rehabilitated. The public can attend educational flight demonstrations where handlers fly the birds, providing an awe-inspiring and educational experience about conservation and wildlife medicine. It's a hidden gem that appeals to all ages.
6. Shop 'Til You Drop: From Boutiques to Antiques
Shopping in Auburn offers a delightful mix of college-town chic, Southern boutiques, and antique treasures.
The Heart of It All: College Street and Toomer's Corner
The stretch of College Street leading to Toomer's Corner is the main commercial artery. Here you'll find the Auburn University Bookstore for official gear, alongside national retailers. But the real treasures are the local shops. The Auburn Alchemy sells beautifully crafted jewelry and gifts. MeeMaw's is a whimsical boutique with women's clothing and accessories. The Dog House is the go-to spot for Auburn-themed pet apparel.
Opelika's Antique and Vintage Scene
For antique hunters and vintage lovers, downtown Opelika is a paradise. Stores like The Depot Antiques, Red Eagle Antiques, and Brick & Mortar are multi-dealer malls packed with everything from furniture and glassware to mid-century modern finds and vinyl records. You can easily spend an afternoon browsing these curated collections.
The Auburn University Club & Conference Center
For a more upscale shopping experience, the Auburn University Club hosts periodic arts and crafts shows and farmers markets in its beautiful setting. The Auburn Farmers Market, operating seasonally on Saturdays in the parking lot of the Auburn United Methodist Church, is the best place to find local produce, homemade jams, baked goods, and artisan crafts directly from the producers.
7. Family-Friendly Fun: Activities for All Ages
Auburn is incredibly family-friendly, with numerous attractions designed to entertain children and create lasting memories for parents.
The Kreher Preserve and Nature Center
This 120-acre preserve, operated by Auburn University, is a wonderland for kids. It features interactive nature trails, a discovery playground made from natural materials, a water ecology area with a stream for wading, and a butterfly garden. The center offers educational programs, summer camps, and special events like "Owl Prowls." It's a fantastic, free (donation suggested) way to get kids excited about the natural world.
The Auburn University Museum of Natural History (Again!)
As mentioned, this is a top choice for families. The dinosaur fossils, especially the massive Albertosaurus skull, are a huge hit. The live animal exhibits, including turtles, snakes, and fish, provide hands-on learning. The museum is compact, engaging, and perfectly suited for a 1-2 hour visit with curious children.
Mini-Golf, Bowling, and More
For classic fun, Adventureland offers mini-golf, go-karts, and arcade games. Auburn Bowl is a modern, family-friendly bowling alley with bumper lanes and arcade games. During the summer, the Auburn University Pool is open to the public for swimming. These are perfect for blowing off steam and enjoying simple, timeless entertainment.
8. Annual Events and Festivals You Can't Miss
Timing your visit with one of Auburn's signature annual events can dramatically enhance your experience.
A Year-Round Celebration Calendar
- Auburn's City Fest (Spring): A huge downtown festival with music, arts and crafts, food vendors, and a 5K run.
- Auburn University Homecoming (Fall): The pinnacle of alumni celebration, with a parade, pep rallies, and of course, a home football game. The campus is electric.
- Christmas in Downtown Auburn (Holiday Season): Magical. Features a tree-lighting ceremony, carriage rides, visits with Santa, and local shopping.
- The Auburn vs. Alabama Football Game ("The Iron Bowl"): If you can get tickets, this is arguably the most intense and important sporting event in the state. The atmosphere in Auburn (or Tuscaloosa) is unparalleled.
- Opelika's Main Street Christmas & Dickens Festival (December): Transforms downtown Opelika into a Victorian-era Christmas village with carolers, street performers, and themed shops.
Planning your trip around these events means you'll experience Auburn at its most festive and communal.
9. Practical Tips for Your Auburn Adventure: Where to Stay and How to Get Around
To make your trip seamless, here are essential logistics and tips.
Accommodations: From Boutique to Budget
Staying downtown Auburn puts you within walking distance of most restaurants, shops, and the campus perimeter. Options range from the boutique-style Hotel 19 to major chains like the Embassy Suites. For a more budget-friendly option, consider hotels in nearby Opelika, which is just a 10-minute drive. If visiting for a football game, book accommodations 6-9 months in advance, as hotels sell out years ahead for big rivalry games.
Getting Around
The downtown Auburn and campus core is very walkable and bikeable. Many hotels offer shuttle services to game days. For exploring further afield (to Chewacla, Opelika, or the Paddle Trail), having a car is essential. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available but can be scarce and expensive during major events. Consider renting a car if you're flying into the Montgomery or Columbus airports.
When to Visit
- Best Weather:April-May and September-October offer mild temperatures and lower humidity, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Peak Energy (and Crowds):Fall (especially October-November) is peak season due to football. The campus is vibrant, but hotels are pricey and booked solid.
- Quietest Time:Winter (December-January) after the holiday season, and during summer (June-August) when students are gone. Expect hot, humid weather in summer but fewer crowds.
Conclusion: Discover Your Own Auburn
So, what are the things to do in Auburn? The answer is as diverse as the visitors who come here. It's about standing in the deafening roar of Jordan-Hare Stadium, feeling a tradition that binds generations. It's about paddling silently down the Tallapoosa River at sunrise, watching mist rise off the water. It's about savoring a perfectly crafted cocktail in a hidden downtown speakeasy or finding the perfect vintage record in an Opelika antique store. It's about marveling at a 70-foot waterfall in a state park or watching a bald eagle soar over a museum.
Auburn masterfully blends the intellectual energy of a top-tier university with the relaxed pace of a Southern town. It’s a place where history is revered, innovation is celebrated, and community is everything. Whether you're here for a single game, a weekend of outdoor adventure, or a deep dive into art and history, you'll find a welcoming spirit and a wealth of experiences. The Loveliest Village on the Plains isn't just a slogan; it's a promise of beauty, connection, and unforgettable memories. Now that you have this guide, it's time to answer your own question: what will you discover in Auburn?
