20 Things To Do In Auburn Alabama On Your Next Visit

1. Learn About City's History At Jule Collins Smith Museum

The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts is a cultural gem located on the campus of Auburn University in Alabama. The museum features a rich history of the city with impressive collections of over 2000 artworks. These artworks consist of various pieces from the 19th and 20th centuries.

One of the main highlights is the collection of Audubon prints and different exhibitions that keep on changing throughout the year. The museum's architecture itself is a work of art that you can appreciate and explore.

With multiple events organized throughout the year, the Jule Collins Smith Museum has become a cultural and educational hub attracting millions of tourists every year. 

2. Explore The Donald E. Davis Arboretum

The Donald E. Davis Arboretum is a beautiful sanctuary located in the center of Auburn City. Covering a total area of 13.5 acres, the arboretum is a museum that collects, preserves, and studies native plant species. While in the park you can stroll through various themed gardens, featuring unique ecosystems and plants found in Alabama.

The arboretum also has a few extensive collections that include rare and endangered plant species that can be viewed by visitors. For first-time visitors, the entire area is well-marked with informative signs.

Additionally, you can also attend different educational programs, workshops, and guided tours hosted by the arboretum for those who want to take part in the conservation effort.

3. Visit The Auburn Raptor Center

Located on the Auburn University Campus, the Auburn Raptor Center is another great place to visit in the university compound. The center is dedicated to the rehabilitation and conservation of injured raptors like eagles, hawks, owls, and falcons.

Visitors are provided an opportunity to learn about these birds through educational programs and live demonstrations inside the facility. The center also has volunteer flight demonstration events where you can watch and learn more about the raptors.

Beyond providing knowledge on raptors, the center has been playing a crucial role in research and conservation efforts.

4. Tour The Kreher Preserve & Nature Center

Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, located in Auburn, is a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. The preserve is spread across 120 acres housing a variety of hiking and biking trails. All these trails go through forests, wetlands, and meadows providing you a glimpse of the diverse landscape.

As you start to hike, you will see a variety of wildlife and plant species throughout the trail. The well-maintained trails provide both challenging and easier routes according to your skill set.

A tour of the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center is one of the prominent things to do in Auburn, Alabama. It serves as an educational hub, offering various programs and workshops focused on environmental conservation.

5. Watch A Show At Jay And Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center

Standing as a prominent venue for live performances, the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center offers multiple different entertainment options for visitors. The facility hosts events like theatrical productions, concerts, dance performances, and many more.

The center operates throughout the year bringing top-notch performances from renowned artists, local talents, and university groups. It welcomes you with great architectural designs and comfortable seating adding elegance to the experience.

Attending a show at the center offers a welcoming atmosphere making it a perfect place for a family or couple night out.

6. Spend A Day At Kiesel Park

Kiesel Park is the largest park in Auburn located at 520 Chadwick Lane. It is an ideal location for relaxation and outdoor fun. The park houses a pavilion, a garden, a pond, and a walking trail that spans over 2 miles. The park has large open spaces for picnicking and enjoying nature.

The walking trails pass through beautiful landscapes offering a peaceful setting to stroll or jog around. The entire park area can also be used for multiple events like family reunions, weddings, and others.

Whether you're looking to spend a quiet day in nature or participate in community events, Kiesel Park could be your go-to option.

7. Explore The Louise Suggs Park

Louise Suggs Park is a peaceful and scenic spot perfect for a relaxing day. Named after the famous golfer, Louise Suggs, the park is a tribute to his legacy. Visitors can stroll around the well-maintained walking trails covered with greenery from all the way around. Along the trails, you'll also find benches to sit and enjoy nature.

For those planning for a fun family outing, the park also has several empty spots and shaded areas to enjoy a picnic meal. The park is also home to a variety of birds that you can spot during the visit.

Located in the heart of Auburn, a visit to the Louse Suggs Park is another one on the list of things to do in Auburn, Alabama.

8. Go Shopping At The Auburn Mall

Recognized as a premier shopping destination, the Auburn Mall carters visitors with a wide range of taste and preferences. The mall is located at the heart of Auburn and has different stores offering a unique product. With multiple options starting from the latest fashion trends to tech gadgets, the mall has everything that you're looking for.

Apart from shopping outlets, the mall has a few of the best restaurants to rest around and taste the local cuisine after a tiring shopping spree. The Auburn Mall stays open year-round and also hosts special events, sales, and promotions, stating itself as a community hub.

9. Visit The Town Creek Park

Another great destination in Auburn is the beautiful community park, Town Creek Park. It offers a variety of recreational activities alongside the beautiful landscape. It is a well-maintained park featuring multiple walking trails that go through scenic woodlands and along the banks of Town Creek.

You can spend time walking, jogging, or biking on the trails to enjoy a peaceful time in nature with friends and family. For children, the park also has a playground with different play structures and a safe environment.

As you stroll around, you come across beautiful ponds where you can try your fishing skills or just relax by the water.

10. Go Bowling At Strikes & Spares Entertainment Complex

Established in the year 2000, the Strikes & Spares Entertainment Complex is a perfect option for family fun and entertainment. This modern facility offers a variety of interesting activities. The major attraction of them all is the classic bowling alley, featuring multiple lanes with the latest technology.

For non-bowlers, the complex also has an arcade filled with a wide selection of games from classic ones to modern options. The venue often hosts bowling tournaments and special events that you can attend for a fun outing.

After a competitive match with friends, visitors can grab snacks, meals, and beverages from the on-site cafes around the corner. Offering multiple entertainment options, Strikes & Spares Entertainment Complex is perfect for family gatherings and fun outings.

11. Take A Day Trip To Chewacla State Park

Located a short drive away from Auburn, the Chewacla State Park is a natural place perfect for a day trip filled with adventure. Covering a total area of 700 acres, the park offers a variety of activities for nature lovers. The park has a beautiful 26-acre lake where you can swim, fish, or paddle a boat while enjoying the scenic view.

Throughout the park, you can also find multiple hiking and biking trails covered with diverse landscapes like forests, rocky outcrops, and scenic waterfalls. 

During a fun hiking day, you can rest and enjoy meals on the picnic tables situated in different parts of the park. You can also spend nights inside the park at camping spots or rustic cabins for more comfort.

12. Visit The Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site

The Tuskegee Institute of National Historic Site is a historic landmark located in nearby Tuskegee. The site takes you on a journey into the past offering a closer look at the well-preserved legacy of the Tuskegee Institute.

Visitors can explore the main buildings of the campus and go on an educational trip to the George Washington Carver Museum. To dive deep into Carver's legacy, you can attend the exhibits showcasing his contribution to sustainable farming practices.

A guided tour through the sites can help understand the contribution of Tuskegee Institution in the fields of education, agriculture, and civil rights.

13. Swim At The Samford Pool

To beat the hot summer days, Samford Pool is a popular destination among swimming enthusiasts and families looking to enjoy water fun. These well-maintained public pools feature a large, crystal-clear swimming area, that is perfect for both lap swimming and refreshment.

The swimming area is always under the supervision of lifeguards to ensure visitors' safety inside the pool. While in the area, you can also take a swimming lesson to improve your skillset.

Apart from swimming pools, the Samford Pool has diving boards, water slides, and splash pods to ensure a fun environment for both kids and adults.

14. Shop At Auburn Farmers Market

The Auburn Farmers Market, a vibrant place to enjoy fresh, locally sourced produce and artistic materials is a bustling business hub. Held every Sunday, the market presents a wide variety of vendors selling different products from all around the city.

The products, mostly include seasonal fruits and vegetables, homemade baked goods, jams, and honey that you can taste and purchase to support the local businesses. The market also features handmade crafts, organic skincare products, and locally raised meats.

The Auburn Farmers Market is more than just a shopping place with a friendly atmosphere and socializing opportunities for visitors from around the world.

15. Hike The Auburn-Opelika Loop

The Auburn-Opelika Look is a scenic trail that connects the neighboring cities of Auburn and Opelika. This network of trails houses various routes for hikers and bikers of all skill levels. While traveling through the loop, you come across beautiful landscapes with wildlife spotting opportunities.

Hikers and bikers can enjoy the beauty of nature and enjoy the breathtaking views. The loop also connects with several parks and recreational areas, providing opportunities for picnicking and outdoor activities.

As one of the prominent things to do in Auburn, Alabama, a hike or ride through the Auburn-Opelika Loop is suitable for both short strolling and adventure.

16. Shop Antique Items At Auburn's Antique Alley

Auburn's Antique Alley is a wonderful district that has been a hidden treasure for anyone interested in antiques and vintage items. This particular area is home to a variety of antique shops and boutiques, offering items from different eras.

The shops consist of items like classic furniture, decorative art, retro clothing, rare books, jewelry, and other items you can purchase as souvenirs. Each store has a unique collection that provides visitors with multiple choices.

While you shop around, the friendly shopkeepers often share insights into the items they are selling. This particular experience takes you back in time as every item holds a connection with the past.

17. Catch A Concert At The Bottling Plant Event Center

Located in Opelika, the Bottling Plant Event Center is a renowned place for live music and entertainment. It is a historic building transformed into a space that hosts a wide range of events. Each of these events features both local talent and nationally recognized artists.

Filled with unique decor and a historic touch, the center offers a memorable experience for visitors. The acoustics of the center are also top-notch ensuring an amazing sound experience for each performance.

The Bottling Plant Event Center has won the hearts of many with its welcoming atmosphere and high-quality entertainment experience for a long time.

18. Taste The Local Cuisine At The Auburn Hotel

The Auburn Hotel is an iconic pub that offers a taste of the local cuisine to the visitors and locals. The hotel's restaurant, Ariccia Trattoria is famous for serving Italian-inspired dishes made with fresh ingredients. Serving customers since 1888, the hotel features a variety of options with a local touch to choose from.

The restaurant is filled with a comfortable atmosphere that is ideal for both casual dining and special occasions. In addition to its regular menu, the Ariccia Trattoria offers a popular Sunday brunch to the visitors.

The Auburn hotel also hosts various culinary events like wine tasting, chef's dinner, and cooking classes, that you could attend if you timed your trip perfectly.

19. Explore The Wilbur Bryant House Museum

Deeply rooted in history, the Wilbur Bryant House Museum is a fascinating place for history enthusiasts. It is a well-preserved residence that offers a glimpse into the early 20th century featuring the architecture of the period. The museum got its name from a prominent figure in Auburn's history, Wilbur Bryant.

Inside the house, you can explore rooms furnished with historic items and personal artifacts. Each room is filled with a unique story of past customs and lifestyles.

The outside area of the house is also well-managed offering a peaceful setting where you can stroll around and learn more about the house's historical context.

20. Take A Walking Tour Of The Auburn University

A walking tour of Auburn University is one of the major things to do in Auburn for anyone planning a trip. The historic campus is not only an educational hub but also an example of beautiful architecture and vibrant student life.

The tour begins at Samford Hall and takes you on an exploration journey inside the university compound. As you stroll around, you'll come across historic buildings and modern facilities standing side by side.

Some of the most popular spots include the Ralph Brown Draughon Library, the Haley Center, and the Auburn Arena. This walking tour offers a comprehensive overview of the campus, its tradition, and its contribution to education and research.