As one of the best college towns, this lovely village on the plains is home to Auburn University Tigers. It’s been a favorite of ours for far too many years than I care to admit. While the town boasts it’s charm, I’ve narrowed it down to some must-visit spots while you’re in town.
Things to Do
Auburn University Campus
Founded in 1836, this university’s name is penned from Oliver Goldsmith’s poem The Deserted Village. Campus has gone through some renovations this century already, so it’s nice to be able to wander around the Plains while sipping on lemonade from Toomer’s Corner.
Auburn Football Game
This is a must-do if you’re ever visiting in the fall. Football is a way of life in the south, anywhere from tailgating to watching the game from inside the stadium, the spirit of Auburn lives on. Also check out Tiger Walk before the game and Toomer’s Corner after a win.
TIP: Be sure to grab a button The Auburn University Bookstore before a game (they can go quickly!)
Auburn Memorial Garden
Located in the center of Auburn’s campus by the University President’s house, this wonderful garden is a great location for all to reflect and enjoy the location. Did you know that it’s also near former dormitory housing called The Hill?
Chewacla State Park
This wonderful state park is a great way to spend the day with friends hiking or exploring the waterfalls and scenery. Park Entrance is fairly inexpensive, and definitely worth spending a good portion of your day here.
Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art
Besides it’s wonderful eclectic display, this museum is just south of campus and hosts a Cafe as well. Donations are accepted in lieu of donations.
Shopping
Downtown Auburn
This block of shops are restaurants seem to be ever changing, but also is reminiscent of days gone by. But this is also the place to stroll for any souvenirs, gifts, or to tickle your fancy!
Tiger Town
Bordering both Auburn and Opelika, this large outdoor shopping plaza is home to some much larger stores such as Target, Ulta, World Market, and more. Why not spend the day to eat and shop when you’re here? For an afternoon treat, grab a cookie from Crumbl!
Where to Eat
Breakfast + Brunch
- Ariccia Cucina Italiano ($$): This wonderful Italian restaurant is complimented by using fresh ingredients and continues to offer seasonal updated flavors. Voted the ‘Best Brunch’ in 2022 by the Best of Bama.
- Bizilia’s Cafe ($): Located on College Street it the heart of Auburn’s downtown shopping, this cute cafe opened its doors in the early part of this century, and as much as I love their coffee, it’s great having a quick lunch selection as well.
Lunch
- Chicken Salad Chick ($): What started as a small business in Auburn has turned into quite the franchise! With their salads constantly being made fresh, they have options to eat in or take cartons to-go.
- Hey Day Market ($):
- Mama Goldberg’s ($): Despite its popularity, the flagship location just off of Auburn’s campus still manages the hole-in-the-wall feel to it. Whether you’re grabbing a pint before a game or grabbing one of their sandwiches afterwards, Mama G’s is the oldest independently owned restaurant in Auburn.
- Toomer’s Drugs ($): Located in the heart of Auburn at, you guessed it, Toomer’s Corner, this location still maintains some of its history since opening its doors in 1896. Toomer’s combines a selection of souvenirs, and a quick-service type of restaurant. Be sure to grab its World-Famous lemonade!
Dinner + Drinks
- Ariccia Cucina Italiano ($$-$$$): This wonderful Italian restaurant is complimented by using fresh ingredients and continues to offer seasonal updated flavors. If you’re ever in Auburn during a home game weekend, be sure to make reservations here!
- Niffer’s Place ($$): Known for its funky and eclectic decor inside, the restaurant is known for its menu of burgers and chicken sandwiches. With two other locations in Opelika and Dadeville (Lake Martin area), you’re still able to find a favorite and kick back and every trip is worth ordering their corn nuggets.
- Piccolo 241 ($$): This lounge is definitely a tucked away gem, with it being the areas dedicated jazz lounge, if has a wonderfully eclectic and extensive menu. Located next to Ariccia.
- Rooftop Lounge ($-$$): In addition to a fantastic walkable campus, how about gorgeous views of campus at sunset? Located at The Laurel.
- The Wittel Rooftop Bar ($-$$): Head to The Collegiate Hotel for after dinner drinks up on their rooftop. The picturesque views of Samford Hall vary depending on the weather; be sure to check the hours before visiting.
Places to Stay
Downtown Auburn
- The Collegiate Hotel
- The Hotel at Auburn University
- The Laurel Hotel and Spa
Outskirts of Auburn + Surrounding Area
- Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National
- Clarion Inn & Suites University Center
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Auburn Opelika
- Hilton Garden Inn Auburn/Opelika
- TownPlace Suites by Marriott Auburn University Area
There’s already so much more that this lovely village on the Plains has to offer, but I have only brushed on a handful. I hope this post helps in discovering Auburn, whether you’re here for a short or long weekend. Auburn is one of those towns to fortunately be featured occasionally in Southern Living as well!
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