Name: Syrup Sopping Day at Pioneer Park
Start: 2026-10-31
End: 2026-10-31

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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

For the past 50+ years, during October, the small town of Loachapoka, Alabama, welcomes approximately 10,000 visitors to the annual Syrup Sopping Festival at Pioneer Park on the grounds of the Lee County Historical Society. This year, Syrup Sopping Day will be on October 25, from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. The rain date is Sunday, October 26. Admission is free!

On this day, visitors take a step back in time to the late 1800s – early 1900s as they tour historical buildings while taking in historical displays and reenactments and observe numerous historical demonstrations such as sugar cane milling, syrup making, quilting, and blacksmithing. In addition, the event features live music, great food, and over a hundred arts and crafts and other types of vendors spread throughout the town park and the museum grounds for visitors’ enjoyment.

The festival officially starts at 8 a.m. on Saturday and lasts until about 3 p.m., but many people arrive early to be among the first in line to purchase one of our famous sweet potato and sausage biscuits for breakfast. As the morning progresses, other festival food favorites are available at the cookhouse, such as sweet potato fritters rolled in cinnamon and sugar, open-fire cooked camp stew, collard greens, pinto beans, and corn muffins. And of course, you can make this fall day in the south complete by purchasing some boiled peanuts!

In addition to the food sold at the museum cookhouse, there will also be other food vendors selling everything from barbecue, polish sausages, hot dogs, ice cream, kettle corn, fried pies, and many other tasty treats. And speaking of vendors and finding that perfect item that you really need (or don’t need), visitors will want to walk around the festival grounds and checkout the arts and crafts and other vendors. This is a great place to find a perfect piece of hand-made pottery, an original painting or photograph, basket, jewelry, wood craft, leather craft, candles, soaps, and numerous other items. There are also vendors available that provide other services such as home improvements, self-help, health information and many other things.

Syrup Sopping Day at Pioneer Park

Located in the vibrant city of Auburn, Alabama, stayAPT Suites Auburn offers a refreshing blend of comfort, convenience, and Southern hospitality. Located at 1656 S College St, just minutes away from Auburn University and the excitement of downtown, our suites are ideal for those seeking a longer stay with all the comforts of home. Each suite boasts a thoughtfully designed layout, featuring a separate living room, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a dedicated workspace, perfect for both leisure and business travelers.

Experience a new standard of accommodation where every detail is tailored to your needs, from the high-speed Wi-Fi to the premium bedding ensuring a restful night's sleep. Enjoy our modern amenities, including on-site laundry facilities, free parking, and a friendly, welcoming staff ready to assist you 24/7.

Choose stayAPT Suites Auburn for a memorable and comfortable experience in the heart of Auburn, where you're not just a guest, but part of our community. 

stayAPT Suites Auburn

Welcome to Stay Plus Extended Stay Suites, your home away from home in the heart of Auburn, AL. Located at 1654 S College St, our hotel offers an exceptional stay experience, combining comfort, convenience, and affordability. Whether you're visiting for a game day, on a business trip, or exploring the city, our prime location ensures easy access to Auburn University, local dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

Our spacious suites are designed with your extended stay needs in mind, featuring fully-equipped kitchens, comfortable living areas, and high-speed Wi-Fi to keep you connected. Enjoy a restful night's sleep in our cozy beds and start your day right with our complimentary breakfast. At Stay Plus Extended Stay Suites, we pride ourselves on our friendly staff, who are dedicated to making your stay as enjoyable and comfortable as possible.

Experience the best of Auburn hospitality at Stay Plus Extended Stay Suites, where your comfort is our priority. 

Stay Plus Extended Stay Suites

Avid Hotel Auburn- University Area is an IHG Hotel located in the heart of Auburn, AL. Our hotel is conveniently located near the campus of Auburn University and is the perfect spot for visiting students and parents alike. Enjoy our modern accommodations, complimentary Wi-Fi, and delicious on-site dining options. We also provide a number of amenities, including a 24-hour fitness center, business center, and outdoor pool. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are ready to make your stay here in Auburn unforgettable. 

avid hotel Auburn - University Area, an IHG Hotel

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Auburn is a budget friendly stay off I 85 at 2174 South College Street, about three miles from Auburn University. Guests can start the day with free continental breakfast and use free Wi Fi, with rooms that include a microwave and refrigerator.

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Auburn

Welcome to Hampton Inn Auburn! Our convenient location off I-85 in Auburn, AL puts you close to the area's premier attractions, from the Auburn University campus to Chewacla State Park. We offer a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable, including complimentary hot breakfast, free WiFi, a fitness center, and a business center. Plus, you can take advantage of our pool and a convenient snack shop for late-night cravings. Whether you're in town for business or leisure, make Hampton Inn Auburn your go-to destination. 

Hampton Inn Auburn

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Auburn - University Area, an IHG Hotel, offers easy access to Auburn University and the campus. Our hotel is conveniently located near downtown Auburn and offers comfortable, modern accommodations with convenient amenities and services. Our guests have access to a complimentary hot breakfast, a fitness center, an outdoor pool and more. Whether you're here for a college visit or a weekend getaway, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Auburn - University Area offers comfort and convenience. 

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Auburn - University Area, an IHG Hotel

Discover the charm and convenience of Quality Inn Auburn Campus Area I-85, located in the heart of Auburn, AL, at 2283 S College St. Perfect for travelers seeking a blend of comfort and value, our hotel is ideally situated just minutes from Auburn University, making it an excellent choice for visiting families, alumni, and prospective students. Each guest room is designed with your relaxation in mind, featuring cozy bedding, free Wi-Fi, and all the essential amenities to ensure a restful stay. Start your day right with our complimentary hot breakfast, offering a variety of delicious options to fuel your adventures. Take a refreshing dip in our outdoor pool or stay active in our fitness center. With friendly service and a prime location near top attractions and dining, Quality Inn Auburn Campus Area I-85 is your gateway to the best of Auburn. Book your stay with us for an unbeatable combination of comfort and convenience. 

Quality Inn Auburn Campus Area I-85

Experience warm Southern hospitality at Auburn Lodge, your home away from home in the heart of Auburn, AL. Strategically located at 2145 S College St, our hotel offers convenient access to Auburn University, making it the perfect stay for visiting families, alumni, and future students. Immerse yourself in comfort with our well-appointed rooms featuring all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay, including complimentary Wi-Fi to keep you connected. Begin your day with a delightful breakfast before exploring the charming city of Auburn, known for its vibrant community, scenic parks, and bustling shopping districts. Whether you're in town for a university event, business, or pleasure, Auburn Lodge ensures a memorable experience with its friendly staff, impeccable service, and cozy atmosphere. Book your stay at Auburn Lodge today and discover the best of Auburn hospitality. 

Auburn Lodge

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

Experience the stylish and modern Courtyard by Marriott Auburn. Located just minutes away from local attractions, our hotel offers easy access to popular destinations such as Auburn University and the city center. Enjoy spacious and comfortably appointed guest rooms, each equipped with modern amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and luxurious bedding. Take advantage of our on-site fitness center and outdoor pool, or explore nearby restaurants and shops. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, our hotel provides the perfect home away from home. 

Syrup Sopping Day at Pioneer Park

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