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Things to Do in Auburn-Opelika

Explore the beauty and excitement of the Auburn-Opelika area, where there is something for everyone. Visit the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art to appreciate world-class art exhibits. Experience the natural beauty of Chewacla State Park with its hiking trails and waterfalls. Take a stroll through historic downtown Opelika and enjoy its unique boutiques and vibrant dining scene. For sports enthusiasts, catch an Auburn Tigers game at Auburn University, known for its spirited football, basketball, and baseball games. Don't miss the Opelika Pickleball Facility, with 24 individually fenced, covered, and lighted courts, perfect for year-round play.

Local Highlights
Auburn University: Known for its beautiful campus and sporting events, Auburn University is a hub of activity and culture.

Downtown Opelika: Enjoy the charm of a historic downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Chewacla State Park: A natural retreat offering hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and camping.
Opelika Pickleball Facility: One of the best pickleball facilities in the Southeast, providing year-round play on 24 lighted courts.

Dining and Accommodations
With a wide range of dining options from casual eateries to fine dining, the Auburn-Opelika area caters to all tastes. Notable mentions include The Hound for its hearty Southern fare and Café 123 for a fine dining experience in a historic setting. Accommodations range from the luxurious Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National to charming bed-and-breakfasts.

Plan your visit to Auburn-Opelika today and discover why it is a prime destination for sports, culture, and Southern hospitality! For more information, visit Auburn-Opelika Tourism.

Auburn-Opelika Tourism

Auburn Pickleball Classic at Lake Wilmore will take place November 14-15 at the Lake Wilmore Pickleball Courts in Auburn. The tournament will feature men’s doubles and women’s doubles on Saturday, followed by mixed doubles on Sunday, with play beginning as early as 8 a.m. Spectators are welcome to come out and watch, and players can register beginning July 1. Visit the event page for division details, registration information, match formats, and tournament rules.

Auburn Pickleball Classic at Lake Wilmore

The Southern Pickleball Association is dedicated to growing the sport of pickleball across the United States by offering affordable, professionally managed amateur events and supporting local pickleball communities. Since our inception in 2021, we have proudly become a cornerstone of community, camaraderie, and competition in the southeast, setting a new standard for what it means to run pickleball tournaments.

With nearly 200 tournaments hosted and over 30,000 players on our courts over the past 4 years, Southern Pickleball continues to bring people together through the joy of the game, fostering connections both on and off the court. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or new to the sport, we strive to create opportunities for everyone to experience the excitement and spirit of pickleball.

Southern Pickleball Association

Pickleball

The Hotel at Auburn University & Dixon Conference Center is a full-service stay on South College Street, across from Samford Hall and one block from downtown. Guests have on-site dining at Ariccia Cucina Italiana and Piccolo 241, plus amenities like an outdoor pool and fitness center. For meetings and events, the connected Dixon Conference Center offers flexible space for groups from five to 500.

The Hotel at Auburn University & Dixon Conference Center

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Auburn University Area offers suite-style lodging on South College Street, about a mile from Auburn University. Each suite includes a full kitchen, and guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Pet-friendly rooms make it a solid option for longer stays, campus visits, and game-day weekends.

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Auburn University Area

Staybridge Suites is located in the Auburn University Area and offers a world-class lodging experience, conveniently located near Auburn University. Our all-suite hotel offers luxurious amenities and modern comforts, including full kitchens, free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness center, an outdoor pool, and a complimentary breakfast. Perfect for business travelers, families, and leisure travelers alike, Staybridge Suites provides the perfect home away from home. Come stay with us and experience the best of Auburn, AL. 

Staybridge Suites Auburn – University Area, an IHG Hotel

Twelve covered, outdoor pickleball courts with LED lighting are now open for public use at the Lake Wilmore Park Recreation Center. Courts are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis daily from sunrise to 9 p.m., unless otherwise reserved for City of Auburn Parks and Recreation programming.

Future Expansion:
An additional six courts are under construction and expected to open later in 2025, bringing the total to 18 courts.