Name: Autumn Tote Bag and Hand Stitching Workshop - Craftoween at Chewacla
Start: 2026-10-17
End: 2026-10-17

## **Start Your Golf Trail Journey at Grand National**

Just **90 minutes from Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport**, [Grand National](https://www.rtjgolf.com/grandnational/ "RTJ Grand National") in **Auburn-Opelika, Alabama**, is the **closest Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail site to ATL,** making it the perfect starting point for international travelers and golf tour groups alike. Its unbeatable accessibility, championship-caliber design, and vibrant local charm create an ideal launchpad for exploring the full RTJ Trail.

Built along the scenic 600-acre **Lake Saugahatchee**, Grand National features **54 holes of world-class golf** designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Golfers can choose from the **Lake Course**, with 12 holes hugging the shoreline; the **Links Course**, known for its bold layout and elevation; and the **Short Course**, a top-tier par-3 challenge. All three courses are nationally recognized, with the Lake and Links ranked in *Golf Digest’s* “Top 50 Affordable Courses” and all included on their “Places to Play” list of Super Value courses.

What sets Grand National apart is its **central location on the RTJ Trail**, offering quick connections to other top courses:

- **Capitol Hill – Prattville**: ~1 hr 15 min
- **Cambrian Ridge – Greenville**: ~1 hr 40 min
- **Ross Bridge – Birmingham**: ~2 hr 15 min
- **Oxmoor Valley – Birmingham**: ~2 hr 10 min

This strategic placement allows travelers to easily build **multi-stop RTJ golf itineraries** without wasting time in transit.

Grand National has hosted prestigious events like the **Barbasol Championship** and is fully equipped for players of all levels. With **abundant lodging, group-friendly tee time scheduling, dining options, and a full-service pro shop**, it’s a favorite among tour operators and repeat visitors.

Beyond the course, Auburn-Opelika offers a **vibrant, walkable downtown**, [**chef-owned restaurants**](https://www.aotourism.com/dining/best-bites/ "Best Bites in Auburn-Opelika"), craft breweries, live music, and the kind of **Southern hospitality** that turns a great golf trip into a truly memorable getaway.

Whether you're planning a buddy trip, a tour group itinerary, or an international golf experience, **Grand National is where your Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail adventure should begin.**

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Grand National

KLM Tasty Donuts is a family-owned bakery serving fresh-made donuts, breakfast sandwiches, specialty coffee and refreshing drinks. Known for its colorful, welcoming atmosphere and signature apple fritters, it's a great stop to start your morning in Opelika. Every treat is made fresh, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Grab a dozen to go or enjoy your breakfast with a freshly brewed cup of coffee.

KLM Tasty Donuts

Located in Opelika, Cracker Barrel combines classic Southern cooking with the charm of an old-fashioned country store. Guests can enjoy homestyle breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes made from scratch, including favorites like biscuits and gravy, chicken and dumplings, and country-fried steak. The attached store offers a curated selection of nostalgic candy, seasonal gifts, and country-inspired décor. With its warm atmosphere and focus on comfort food, Cracker Barrel remains a longtime favorite for travelers and locals alike.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

Sonic Drive-In is a fast-food favorite known for its classic American menu and drive-in service. Offering a wide variety of items, including burgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, and crispy fries, Sonic also features a signature selection of drinks, slushes, and milkshakes. Customers can enjoy the convenience of ordering from their car with the touch of a button or through the Sonic app for a quick and efficient experience. With its nostalgic drive-in setup, Sonic provides a fun and convenient way to enjoy a meal on the go or while relaxing in your car. Open daily from 7 a.m. to midnight, Sonic Drive-In is perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack. Whether you’re craving a classic burger, a frosty milkshake, or a refreshing slush, Sonic has something for every taste. The drive-in service, along with the option for curbside delivery, makes it an easy and enjoyable dining experience for individuals and families alike. With affordable prices and a diverse menu, Sonic is a go-to spot for a quick meal in a retro, fun atmosphere.

Sonic Drive-In

Conveniently located off I-85 in Opelika, Angel’s Antique and Flea Mall is one of the largest antique malls in the Southeast, boasting over 68,000 square feet of vintage treasures. With more than 400 vendors, this massive marketplace offers an ever-changing selection of antiques, collectibles, furniture, vintage décor, and flea market finds. Shoppers can explore an extensive collection of antique furniture, vintage jewelry, retro toys, rare collectibles, and home décor, making it a top destination for antique enthusiasts and casual browsers alike. Whether searching for a unique statement piece or a timeless gift, Angel’s offers a diverse mix of items to suit every taste. With free onsite parking and a constantly updated inventory, visitors can take their time browsing for hidden gems. New arrivals and exclusive finds make each trip a fresh experience. For those passionate about antique shopping in Alabama, Angel’s Antique and Flea Mall is a can’t-miss stop. Visit today to uncover one-of-a-kind treasures, or check the website for updates on new arrivals and upcoming events.

Angel's Antique & Flea Mall

Opelika Nutrition is a vibrant health and wellness spot in the heart of Opelika, offering a wide range of loaded teas, pre- and post-workout drinks, and protein-packed snacks. Known for its health-conscious menu, Opelika Nutrition provides delicious options that cater to busy lifestyles and fitness goals. Whether you’re stopping in for a refreshing loaded tea or a nutritious post-workout shake, this spot stands out for its commitment to helping customers stay energized and healthy. The menu includes a variety of loaded teas, energizing pre- and post-workout drinks, and meal replacement shakes. Customer favorites include the "Lit Tea" for a quick energy boost and the "Loaded Shake," which is packed with protein and essential vitamins. Opelika Nutrition also hosts wellness challenges and promotions, so be sure to follow them on social media for updates on events and seasonal specials. Whether you're fueling up before a workout or simply looking for a healthy, tasty option, Opelika Nutrition has you covered. Stop by to try their popular teas and shakes.

Opelika Nutrition

The mission of The Arts Association of East Alabama is to provide rewarding and exciting experiences for the citizens of this area by developing innovative programming that will stimulate interest in the arts, eagerness to learn through the arts, and broader participation in and support of the arts. The Southside Center for the Arts is alive with the sights and sounds of performing arts, visual arts, literary arts, lectures, arts education activities, and community engagement events. Its central space features administrative offices and a gem of a 300-seat auditorium with lively natural acoustics. As a cooperative venture between The Arts Association of East Alabama, Envision Opelika, and the City of Opelika, Southside Center for the Arts will host many exciting and memorable events in the years to come, and continue to grow as an important cultural asset to our community.

EAST ALABAMA ARTS CENTER

Island Krave serves up bold Caribbean-inspired flavors with a menu full of island favorites. From perfectly seasoned jerk chicken and savory rice bowls to loaded fries and tropical-inspired specialties, every dish is packed with authentic flavor and made fresh to order. Whether you're craving a hearty meal or a taste of the islands, Island Krave delivers a vibrant dining experience on wheels.

Island Krave

Mr. Mori's Hibachi offers a delightful dining experience featuring fresh flavorful hibachi cuisine.

Mr. Mori's Hibachi

Banditos celebrates the bold creativity of Mexican-inspired street food and the vibrant spirit of the East Alabama community. What began as a beloved food truck has grown into a full-service restaurant that blends laid-back charm with chef-driven flavor. With a menu rooted in fresh ingredients, slow-smoked meats, and playful twists on comfort classics, Banditos brings modern edge to familiar favorites. It's a place built for good food and good company. Located in Opelika, Banditos carries forward the energy and personality that made the truck a local staple, now in a vibrant indoor-and-outdoor space designed for gathering. The team continues to craft the dishes guests fell in love with, each prepared with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality that fueled their rise across East Alabama. Highlighting a fresh, modern approach to Southern-meets-street-food cooking, Banditos focuses on responsibly sourced ingredients, scratch-made components, and the kind of extra effort that turns a simple dish into memorable ones. Banditos offers a dining experience that feels both comforting and unexpected. Full indoor and outdoor seating. Serving lunch and dinner.

Banditos

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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

Join **Chewacla State Park** for **Autumn Tote Bag and Hand Stitching Workshop - Craftoween, October 17 at 1:00 p.m.**!

Kick off Chewacla’s second annual “Craftoween” with an Autumn tote bag and hand stitching workshop! Sit with us in the cooler fall weather as we make an autumn-themed tote bag and teach the very basics of hand stitching. All supplies and materials will be covered. Any experience level is welcome!

This program will begin the Nature Center Outdoor Classroom, which is located in the second parking lot loop on the right after you pass the front gate house.

Limited spots available. There is a $15 fee with purchase of entry fee. Tickets are available so register [HERE](https://reserve.alapark.com/register/autumn-tote-bag-and-hand-stitching-workshop---craftoween?_gl=1*148jirf*_ga*NDk0OTU5OTU3LjE3ODQyMzA5MzM.*_ga_BBJMJ1PBB0*czE3ODQzMTQyMTEkbzQkZzEkdDE3ODQzMTk1NDgkajYwJGwwJGgw)!

Autumn Tote Bag and Hand Stitching Workshop - Craftoween at Chewacla

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