Name: Author Visit: Chrsitina Baker Kline
Start: 2026-10-14
End: 2026-10-14

Housed in what was previously a vacant commercial building in downtown Opelika, Zazu Gastropub is now a stunning, five-level restaurant striking in character with sand, old bricks, wide-plant flooring, flickering gas lanterns, and repurposed wooden beams from the Old Mill in Opelika. At Zazu, people can expect "fine dining" food in a relaxed, public house atmosphere. Zazu has teamed up with Opelika Grows, Alabama Seafood Co., and Oakview Farms Granary for the menu's ingredients. Zazu offers a full bar with a wide selection of craft beers on tap and in bottles. Serving lunch and dinner. Reservations accepted.

Zazu Gastropub

Gear Gaming, located in downtown Opelika, offers a diverse selection of board games and tabletop games for purchase and rent. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the world of tabletop games, Gear Gaming has something for everyone. Visit them in downtown Opelika for game nights, events, and a vibrant community of gaming enthusiasts.

Gear Gaming Opelika

Located in the heart of Downtown Opelika, Side Track Coffee has quickly become a beloved spot for coffee lovers and those looking for a cozy, community-oriented environment. Since its opening in 2016, the café has earned a reputation for its expertly brewed coffee, refreshing teas, and delicious light bites. Among its standout offerings is the "Young Honey" beverage, a customer favorite known for its unique and delightful flavor. The café also fosters a strong sense of community, hosting events such as food pop-ups, art exhibitions, and live music that draw in a diverse crowd of patrons. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Side Track Coffee provides the perfect backdrop for work, relaxation, or socializing with friends. Whether you’re stopping in for your daily caffeine fix or looking to spend a few hours in a quiet, welcoming space, Side Track offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. With its commitment to both quality coffee and community engagement, it’s no wonder that this café has become a go-to destination for many in the Opelika area.

Side Track Coffee

Jefferson's Opelika is a popular sports bar and restaurant offering a laid-back atmosphere and a menu packed with fan favorites like wings, burgers, and oysters. Known for its family-friendly vibe, Jefferson's stands out with its signature wings, tossed in a variety of sauces, and its fresh oysters, which keep locals and visitors coming back. Located in downtown Opelika, Jefferson's combines great food with a fun environment, making it a go-to spot for enjoying a casual meal with friends and family. The menu at Jefferson's features a wide selection of appetizers, sandwiches, salads, and their famous hand-breaded chicken tenders and wings. Customers love the buffalo chicken sandwich and fried pickles, and the extensive sauce list ensures there's something for every palate. Though Jefferson's doesn't offer specific seasonal specials, it regularly provides a dependable and enjoyable dining experience. Whether you're craving delicious wings or looking for a spot to enjoy a relaxed meal, Jefferson's Opelika has something for everyone. Stop by for a casual bite or check out their website for more information on menu options and upcoming events.

Jefferson's Opelika

The Gallery on Railroad, located in Opelika, is a boutique gallery that offers fine art, as well as a curated selection of gifts and accessories. The gallery showcases local and regional artists, featuring works like paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media pieces. Alongside the art collection, visitors can find unique accessories and gifts, making it a perfect spot for those seeking artistic treasures or special presents. Open Tuesday through Saturday, The Gallery on Railroad frequently updates its offerings to ensure there’s always something new to discover. The gallery also provides custom framing services to help you preserve and showcase your chosen artwork. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or looking for the perfect gift, the gallery offers a welcoming and creative environment. For those seeking to explore local art or find unique gifts, The Gallery on Railroad is a must-visit destination. Stop by to browse their latest selections or contact the gallery for more information on featured artists and available items.

The Gallery on Railroad

Roland’s Thrift & Antiques is a downtown Opelika gem where every corner holds something worth discovering. The shop is filled with antiques, collectibles, and curiosities that reflect a lifetime of stories and Southern charm. At the heart of it all is Roland himself, an Opelika local known for his humor, warmth, and welcoming spirit. Visitors come for the treasures but stay for the conversation, often leaving with more than they expected. Open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Roland’s invites shoppers to slow down, look around, and enjoy an experience that feels both timeless and uniquely Opelika.

Roland's Thrift Store

Located in Opelika, AL, Coveted Closet is a boutique clothing store offering a stylish selection of both trendy and classic pieces. Known for its well-curated collection, Coveted Closet is the go-to destination for women seeking unique, high-quality apparel and accessories. Whether you're looking to elevate your everyday style or find a standout piece for a special occasion, the store offers a variety of clothing that fits every need. The boutique carries a wide selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories, with many customers raving about the personalized service and distinctive styles. Convenient parking is available nearby, making it easy to stop by and explore their offerings. For those looking to refresh their wardrobe or find something unique, Coveted Closet provides a shopping experience worth visiting. Stop by to check out the latest arrivals or visit their website for information on upcoming promotions and events.

Coveted Closet

Step into a world of nostalgia and excitement at Rock 'N Roll Pinball, home to over 30 top-tier and vintage pinball machines! Enjoy unlimited pinball action for just $10 an hour, $7 for 30 minutes, or $20 for all-day access, including The Jailhouse, our exclusive speakeasy-style music venue. We also offer budget-friendly memberships and punch cards to maximize your playtime! Rock 'N Roll Pinball isn't just an arcade—it's an experience. With 9 large screen TVs, a cozy lounge, and a bar serving craft beers, domestic brews, sodas, and snacks, it's perfect for families, friends, and pinball enthusiasts. We're pet-friendly and ideal for events of all kinds.

Rock N' Roll Pinball

The Jailhouse is a standout bar in Opelika known for its lively setting and strong lineup of drinks. Set inside a restored historic building, it offers a mix of character, music, and energy that keeps the crowd coming back. Guests can choose from a full menu of craft beer, cocktails, and spirits while enjoying live performances or a night of dancing. Whether you're out with friends or exploring the local scene, The Jailhouse delivers a fun and memorable evening in one of Opelika’s most recognizable venues.

The Jailhouse

All Strung Out Yarn Shop in Opelika is a must-visit destination for knitting, crocheting, and fiber arts enthusiasts. Offering a carefully curated selection of high-quality yarns, needles, and crafting supplies, the shop caters to both beginners and seasoned crafters. From everyday essentials to luxurious hand-dyed yarns, All Strung Out provides an inspiring selection for any project. What sets All Strung Out apart is its commitment to personalized service and expert guidance, helping customers find the perfect materials while fostering a welcoming, creative community. In addition to premium yarns and supplies, the shop hosts knitting and crochet classes, workshops, and seasonal events, making it a vibrant hub for fiber artists in Opelika. Whether starting a new project or searching for a thoughtful gift, All Strung Out Yarn Shop offers everything needed to spark creativity. Stop by the shop to explore the latest arrivals or visit the website for updates on classes, events, and special promotions.

All Strung Out Yarn Shop

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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

The Opelika Book Festival welcomes bestselling author Christina Baker Kline on Wednesday, Oct. 14, at 6:30 p.m. for a conversation about her newest novel, “The Foursome,” with fellow author Patti Callahan Henry.

Kline is the author of 10 novels, including the No. 1 New York Times bestseller “Orphan Train.” Her latest novel, “The Foursome,” reimagines the true story of two sisters in 19th-century North Carolina who married Eng and Chang Bunker, the world-famous conjoined twins from Siam.

Tickets are $35 and include admission and a signed copy of “The Foursome.” Following the program, Kline and Henry will be available to personalize books and take photos with guests.

[Tickets go on sale Sept. 14. A limited number of free admission-only tickets will be available beginning Oct. 7.](https://auburnoilbooksellers.com/event/auburn-author-festival/)

Author Visit: Chrsitina Baker Kline

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