Auburn felt like a place where history, nature, and charm wrapped around you at every turn. From the traditions of Toomer’s Corner to the stillness of its parks and preserves, each stop gave me something different—something grounded and genuine. Whether I was sipping lemonade under giant oaks or listening to birds take flight at the raptor center, Auburn showed me that beauty often lives in the balance between pride and peace.
Best Things to Do in Auburn, AL
Celebrate Auburn Traditions and Grab a Famous Lemonade at Toomer’s Corner
Toomer’s Corner wasn’t just a landmark—it was a feeling. Standing at the intersection of tradition and everyday life, with oaks that had seen it all, I felt like I was tapping into something bigger than myself. Students, alumni, and travelers mingled, all drawn to that unmistakable Auburn energy. I remember thinking, “Some places don’t just hold memories—they make you feel part of them instantly.”
What I Loved Most: Watching the community gather, especially after a big win, when the white streamers of toilet paper float through the trees like confetti in slow motion.
My highlight? An iconic lemonade from Toomer’s Drugs. Tart, sweet, perfectly chilled—it tasted like summer in a cup. I sat on the curb outside, watching traffic pass, the whole town in motion around me.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: Corner of College Street and Magnolia Avenue
- Vibe: Historic, energetic, pride-filled
- Highlights: Auburn spirit, old oak trees, photo ops, Toomer’s Drugs
- Best Time to Visit: Game weekends or sunny afternoons
- Cost: Free to enjoy
- Hours: Toomer’s Drugs open daily
- Address: 100 N College St, Auburn, AL 36830
Hike, Bike, and Cool Off Under Waterfalls at Chewacla State Park
Chewacla State Park was where I went to catch my breath—and lose track of time. With waterfalls tucked into woods and trails that invited quiet wandering, it was nature at its most welcoming. I hiked past pine trees and rock formations, then stood above the falls, the water rushing below, and thought, “This is the reset I didn’t know I needed.”
What I Loved Most: The lake shimmered under a clear sky, and people were kayaking, grilling, and just being—no rush, no noise, just Alabama outdoors at its finest.
My highlight? A tailgate-style picnic with fried chicken and sweet tea I picked up from Byron’s Smokehouse on the way. I sat near the water’s edge, dipping toes in the sand, savoring every bite.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: Just south of downtown Auburn
- Vibe: Natural, relaxed, family-friendly
- Highlights: Waterfalls, hiking, lake swimming, camping
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for perfect trail weather
- Cost: ~$5 per adult
- Hours: Daily 8am–sunset
- Address: 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn, AL 36830
Explore Nature Trails and Wildlife Exhibits at Kreher Preserve and Nature Center
Kreher Preserve felt like walking into a hidden world—quiet, shaded, alive with birdsong and the smell of pine. There were no crowds, no rush, just winding paths through trees and the soft crunch of leaves underfoot. As I paused on a wooden bridge over a slow-moving creek, I thought, “This is the kind of stillness that stays with you.”
What I Loved Most: Interpretive signs along the trails turned a walk in the woods into a learning experience—and spotting turtles basking in the sun was a quiet thrill.
My highlight? Coffee and a blueberry muffin from The Bean Coffee Shop afterward—enjoyed on their front porch, windows open, the breeze still carrying forest air with it.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: Just north of downtown Auburn
- Vibe: Peaceful, educational, family-friendly
- Highlights: Nature trails, birdwatching, wildlife, education center
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for cool temps and active wildlife
- Cost: Free (donations appreciated)
- Hours: Daily dawn to dusk
- Address: 2222 N College St, Auburn, AL 36830
Wander Through Inspiring Exhibits at the Jule Collins Smith Museum
Walking through the Jule Collins Smith Museum felt like stepping into a conversation—quiet, thoughtful, and full of discovery. The contemporary pieces made me pause and think, while the outdoor sculptures blended art with nature in the most inviting way. I remember sitting in one of the bright galleries, surrounded by color and light, thinking, “This is why we need beauty in our lives—because it makes us slow down and feel.”
What I Loved Most: The diversity of the collection—from regional Southern works to bold modern installations, all curated with care and clarity.
My highlight? A late lunch at Amsterdam Café just down the road. I had their crab cake sandwich with lemon aioli and a side of sweet potato chips—refined yet comforting, just like the museum visit.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: On Auburn University’s campus
- Vibe: Quiet, thoughtful, contemporary
- Highlights: Rotating exhibits, sculpture garden, serene pond
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning or early afternoon for quiet galleries
- Cost: Free admission
- Hours: Tue–Sun, 10am–4:30pm
- Address: 901 S College St, Auburn, AL 36849
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
Picnic, Play, and Stroll Open Fields at Kiesel Park
Kiesel Park had that easy, open feel I love—wide lawns, walking trails, and big Alabama skies overhead. People were out with their dogs, families were picnicking, and the pace of life just seemed to ease up. I sat under an old oak tree, breeze in my hair, and thought, “This is what weekends are made for.” Nothing pressing, just time and space.
What I Loved Most: The mix of open space and shaded walking paths—it felt like a park that truly invited you to stay awhile.
My highlight? A quiet morning coffee from The Hound (grabbed to-go)—a rich espresso and a homemade biscuit with honey butter, eaten slowly on a picnic bench while the park came alive around me.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: A few minutes from downtown Auburn
- Vibe: Spacious, pet-friendly, relaxed
- Highlights: Dog park, walking trails, picnic areas, open fields
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings or late afternoons for cooler temps
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Daily dawn to dusk
- Address: 520 Chadwick Ln, Auburn, AL 36832
If You Love Birds of Prey, Watch Flight Demonstrations at the Southeastern Raptor Center
The Southeastern Raptor Center gave me goosebumps—the good kind. Seeing hawks, owls, and eagles up close, hearing the stories behind their rescues and recoveries—it made me feel connected to something ancient and awe-inspiring. I remember watching a bald eagle spread its wings and thinking, “There’s something sacred about this kind of power and fragility living side by side.”
What I Loved Most: The center’s mission: education, conservation, and giving injured birds a second chance. It felt personal and powerful.
My highlight? A light lunch from Well Red café downtown afterward—a turkey club with tomato jam and arugula, paired with an iced chai. I sat outside, still thinking about those eyes—those raptor eyes—and how wild and wonderful this world can be.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: South side of Auburn University
- Vibe: Educational, inspiring, close to nature
- Highlights: Bird of prey demonstrations, conservation education
- Best Time to Visit: Scheduled shows or public release events
- Cost: ~$5–8 for public presentations
- Hours: Varies by event; call ahead or check online
- Address: 1350 Pratt-Carden Dr, Auburn, AL 36849
Walk Shaded Trails and Native Plant Gardens at Davis Arboretum
The Davis Arboretum felt like stepping into a living textbook—one filled with soft paths, native plants, and the hush of trees teaching you things without ever saying a word. I wandered under towering oaks and beside tiny ponds, notebook in hand but rarely writing. I remember thinking, “If I were a student here, I’d never need a classroom—just this.”
What I Loved Most: The way each section told a story of Alabama’s ecosystems—wetlands, forests, wildflowers—all coexisting in peaceful balance.
My highlight? Stopping by The Avondale Bar & Tap Room afterward for a cheese board and a glass of rosé. I sat under the shade on their patio, surrounded by laughter and the kind of warmth that lingers long after you leave.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: Auburn University campus
- Vibe: Botanical, peaceful, educational
- Highlights: Native plant gardens, walking paths, peaceful ponds
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall when everything is blooming or turning golden
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Dawn to dusk daily
- Address: 181 Garden Dr, Auburn, AL 36849
Let the Kids Play and Explore at Family-Friendly Hickory Dickory Park
Hickory Dickory Park was pure joy in playground form. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just want a quiet, shady place to unwind, this park hits the mark. I walked the boardwalk trail as children’s laughter rang out, and I remember thinking, “Sometimes happiness is as simple as a swing set and blue sky.”
What I Loved Most: The play structures were imaginative and big enough to keep little ones busy for hours, but the surrounding trees made it feel like a retreat for grown-ups too.
My highlight? An iced latte and mini banana bread loaf from Well Red (yes, again—it’s that good), enjoyed from a quiet bench with a book in my lap and sunshine peeking through the trees.
Plan your day trip:
- Location: East Auburn
- Vibe: Playful, family-friendly, shaded
- Highlights: Playground, boardwalk trails, picnic areas
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings or early evenings to beat the heat
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Daily dawn to dusk
- Address: 1399 Hickory Ln, Auburn, AL 36830
Conclusion: Why Auburn is Worth the Drive
What stayed with me long after I left Auburn wasn’t just the places I visited—it was the way those places made me feel. Connected. Grounded. At ease. It’s a town that knows how to slow you down, welcome you in, and give you stories you’ll want to tell again and again.
Jump to a Spot...
- • Celebrate Auburn Traditions and Grab a Famous Lemonade at Toomer’s Corner
- • Hike, Bike, and Cool Off Under Waterfalls at Chewacla State Park
- • Explore Nature Trails and Wildlife Exhibits at Kreher Preserve and Nature Center
- • Wander Through Inspiring Exhibits at the Jule Collins Smith Museum
- • Picnic, Play, and Stroll Open Fields at Kiesel Park
- • If You Love Birds of Prey, Watch Flight Demonstrations at the Southeastern Raptor Center
- • Walk Shaded Trails and Native Plant Gardens at Davis Arboretum
- • Let the Kids Play and Explore at Family-Friendly Hickory Dickory Park