15 Things to Do in Opelika, Alabama (AL)

Opelika is a charming city that offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality, rich history, and beautiful outdoor landscapes. This hidden gem is located just a short drive away from the bustling cities of Auburn and Columbus, making it a prime destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure in the South.

Opelika’s proximity to Auburn gives visitors easy access to the vibrancy of university life, while still allowing them to enjoy the slower pace of a small town. Whether you're exploring its historic downtown, soaking in its scenic views, or experiencing its unique cultural offerings, Opelika is the perfect destination for a variety of travelers, and there are also many things to do in Muscle Shoals, Alabama (AL) that complement a trip to this charming area.

With its welcoming atmosphere and mix of historical landmarks and outdoor attractions, Opelika, Alabama is a must-see destination. Let’s dive into the many things you can do in this picturesque town.

Unique Facts About Opelika

Opelika is a city steeped in history, with unique facts that highlight its cultural and industrial importance.

Opelika’s Historic District: One of the key highlights of the city is its downtown, which is rich in 19th-century architecture. A stroll through the historic district will transport you back in time, with charming buildings and a delightful mix of local shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Home of the Alabama International Dragway: For racing enthusiasts, Opelika is known for its iconic drag racing events. The Alabama International Dragway draws visitors from all over the country, hosting thrilling races throughout the year. If you're looking for more to do in the area, consider exploring things to do in Enterprise, Alabama (AL), where exciting attractions await.

Opelika’s Railroad Legacy: Historically, Opelika was a vital railroad hub in the South. This played a significant role in shaping the city’s economy and development, and the railroad tracks that run through Opelika still stand as a reminder of the city’s industrial past. If you're looking for other destinations with rich history and activities to enjoy, consider exploring the things to do in Orange Beach, Alabama (AL).

Opelika’s Role in the Textile Industry: In the late 1800s, Opelika became a prominent center for textile manufacturing, helping fuel its growth and establishing the foundation for its modern industrial base.

15 Things to Do in Opelika, Alabama (AL)

Opelika, Alabama, is a charming town brimming with history, culture, and outdoor beauty. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or simply looking to enjoy a peaceful day in a beautiful Southern town, Opelika offers something for everyone. Here’s a list of 15 must-do activities in Opelika that will give you a true taste of this picturesque area.

1. Explore the Salem-Shotwell Covered Bridge

Short Description of Activity: The Salem-Shotwell Covered Bridge, dating back to the 1800s, is one of the last remaining covered bridges in Alabama. It offers a peaceful escape for photography enthusiasts and history lovers.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• Historic charm with great photo opportunities.

• Ideal for history buffs and those interested in architecture.
  Cons:

• Slightly off the beaten path; might require a bit of effort to locate.

• Limited amenities nearby.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Scenic views and historical significance.

• Nearby nature trails for a more immersive outdoor experience.

2. Discover the Museum of East Alabama

Short Description of Activity: Dive into Opelika’s rich history at the Museum of East Alabama. Exhibits range from Native American artifacts to civil war relics and local history.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• Offers an in-depth look at local history.

• Family-friendly.
  Cons:

• Some exhibits may feel a bit dated to modern visitors.

• Limited hours of operation.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Permanent exhibits on local culture.

• Special rotating exhibits throughout the year.

3. Tour John Emerald Distilling Company

Short Description of Activity: Take a guided tour through the John Emerald Distilling Company and discover how premium spirits are made, with tastings available at the end of the tour.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• Fun and educational experience.

• Great for those interested in craft spirits.
  Cons:

• Must be 21 or older to participate in tastings.

• Limited availability for tours during peak seasons.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Weekly distillery tours.

• Special tasting events and seasonal releases.

4. Relax at Chewacla State Park

Short Description of Activity: With miles of hiking trails, a stunning waterfall, and a tranquil lake, Chewacla State Park offers the perfect spot for outdoor relaxation.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• Great for outdoor lovers, with hiking, fishing, and camping.

• Beautiful natural scenery.
  Cons:

• Can get crowded during peak weekends.

• Limited amenities compared to larger state parks.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Hiking and biking trails.

• Picnic areas and family-friendly outdoor spaces.

5. Visit the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve

Short Description of Activity: Explore a beautiful preserve featuring trails, educational programs, and opportunities to learn about the local ecosystem.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• Great for nature lovers and families.

• Educational programs available for all ages.
  Cons:

• Some trails may be challenging for beginners.

• Limited facilities for extended stays.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Nature walks and environmental education.

• Seasonal programs for children and adults.

6. Stroll through Historic Downtown Opelika

Short Description of Activity: Take a leisurely stroll through Opelika's historic downtown, with its charming shops, restaurants, and antique stores. The area exudes Southern charm.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• Scenic and relaxing stroll through history.

• Lots of local shops and restaurants to explore.
  Cons:

• Limited parking in certain areas.

• Can get crowded during weekends and festivals.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Specialty shops and local restaurants.

• Historic architecture and landmarks.

7. Attend the Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour

Short Description of Activity: Celebrate the holiday season with this annual tour that features beautifully decorated Victorian homes, offering a glimpse of Christmas past.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• A magical way to experience Opelika during the holidays.

• Family-friendly and visually stunning.
  Cons:

• Only available during the holiday season.

• Can be crowded on the weekends.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Tour of historic homes.

• Holiday-themed decorations and lights.

8. Enjoy a Show at the Opelika Community Theatre

Short Description of Activity: Enjoy a night of live entertainment at the Opelika Community Theatre, where local actors perform a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• Affordable and local live performances.

• Great for theater enthusiasts and families.
  Cons:

• Show schedules may vary, so plan ahead.

• Smaller venue, so tickets may sell out quickly.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Year-round productions of classic plays and new works.

• Community-driven performances.

9. Play at the Opelika SportsPlex and Aquatics Center

Short Description of Activity: For those who love sports and fitness, the Opelika SportsPlex and Aquatics Center offers a variety of activities, including swimming, fitness classes, and sporting events.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• Multiple facilities under one roof.

• Fun for both kids and adults.
  Cons:

• Membership or daily fees may apply.

• Can get crowded during peak times.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Swimming pools and water slides.

• Fitness classes and sports leagues.

10. Shop at Angel's Antiques and Flea Mall

Short Description of Activity: If you're looking for unique treasures, a visit to Angel's Antiques and Flea Mall is a must. It’s filled with vintage items, collectibles, and antiques.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• A wide variety of antiques and vintage goods.

• Great spot for finding unique souvenirs.
  Cons:

• Some items may be overpriced.

• Not for those who prefer new items over vintage.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Antique shopping and treasure hunting.

• Special flea market events throughout the year.

11. Sip Coffee at Mama Mocha's

Short Description of Activity: Stop by Mama Mocha’s for a delicious cup of locally roasted coffee in a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing or meeting friends.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• Locally roasted coffee with a unique flavor.

• Cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
  Cons:

• Limited seating during peak hours.

• May have long lines on weekends.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Specialty coffee drinks.

• Local art displays and community events.

12. Dine at Zazu Gastropub

Short Description of Activity: Enjoy a delicious meal at Zazu Gastropub, known for its innovative menu and exceptional cocktails.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• Creative and high-quality menu options.

• Great for date nights and casual dining.
  Cons:

• Can be on the pricier side.

• Limited vegetarian options.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Seasonal menu changes.

• Special cocktail and food pairings.

13. Experience the Opelika Songwriters Festival

Short Description of Activity: Celebrate the arts at the Opelika Songwriters Festival, a yearly event that brings talented songwriters and musicians together for a weekend of live performances.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• Great for music lovers and artists.

• Opportunity to see live performances from local and national artists.
  Cons:

• Event limited to specific dates.

• Tickets may sell out quickly.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Live performances by songwriters.

• Workshops and networking opportunities.

14. Visit the Opelika Public Library

Short Description of Activity: For those who love books, the Opelika Public Library offers a quiet place to read, study, or participate in one of the library’s community events.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• A quiet and relaxing environment.

• Free access to books and educational resources.
  Cons:

• Limited space for large groups.

• Some services require a library membership.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Book clubs and reading events.

• Educational and community programs.

15. Take a Heritage Walk

Short Description of Activity: Experience Opelika’s rich history with a self-guided heritage walk, where you can explore historical landmarks and learn about the town’s past.

Pros and Cons:
Pros:

• Educational and free activity.

• Flexible schedule for a leisurely stroll.
  Cons:

• Limited information without a guide.

• Some landmarks may be hard to find.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Historical buildings and landmarks.

• Informative plaques along the route.

Best Time to Visit Opelika, Alabama (AL)

The weather in Opelika varies throughout the year, making different seasons perfect for various types of activities. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to visit:

Spring and fall are the most popular times to visit Opelika, offering comfortable temperatures and an array of outdoor activities, including festivals and hiking.

Unique Gems in Opelika

Opelika may be small, but it boasts several unique spots that are perfect for exploration and adventure.

Historic Downtown Opelika: This charming area is the heart of the city, where visitors can find unique local shops, art galleries, and Southern dining options. With its quaint streets and historic buildings, downtown Opelika offers a delightful experience for anyone looking to explore the city’s heritage.

Opelika City Lake: A peaceful retreat for nature lovers, Opelika City Lake is a beautiful location for fishing, paddleboarding, and enjoying a picnic by the water. It’s a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Chewacla State Park: For those who enjoy the outdoors, Chewacla State Park is a must-visit. With scenic trails, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, this park offers numerous hiking and biking opportunities, along with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The Bottle Tree Village: A quirky and unique stop, The Bottle Tree Village features an eclectic collection of glass bottle trees and sculptures. It's a great spot for some fun photos and an Instagram-worthy experience that captures the creative spirit of Opelika.

Day Itinerary in Opelika

If you’re planning a day in Opelika, here's a suggested itinerary to make the most of your visit:

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Opelika Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce and local crafts. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area, soaking in the sights and sounds of this charming district.

Lunch: Head to The Rail Yard or Buc-ee's for a hearty Southern meal. These local eateries offer traditional dishes that highlight the region’s culinary flavors.

Afternoon: After lunch, head to Chewacla State Park for a hike or bike ride through the picturesque trails. Alternatively, if you’re visiting during race season, take a tour of the Alabama International Dragway to experience the thrill of drag racing.

Evening: End your day with a delightful dinner at The Bistro 85, where you can enjoy Southern-inspired dishes in a cozy, relaxed setting. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after an eventful day of exploring Opelika.

How to Reach Opelika, Alabama

Opelika is easily accessible by several means of transportation:

By Car: Located off Interstate 85, Opelika is easily reachable from major cities such as Montgomery and Atlanta. If you’re coming from surrounding states like Georgia or Mississippi, it’s a short and scenic drive to Opelika.

By Train: The Opelika Train Station is serviced by Amtrak’s Crescent route, offering a convenient option for travelers coming from the East Coast or Southern regions.

By Air: The Auburn-Opelika Robert G. Pitts Airport serves regional flights, while the Columbus Airport, located just 20 miles away, provides more flight options for those traveling from out of state.

Conclusion

Opelika, Alabama, may be a small town, but it packs a punch when it comes to Southern charm, rich history, and diverse activities. Whether you're exploring the historic downtown, enjoying outdoor adventures at Chewacla State Park, or taking in the sights at unique gems like the Bottle Tree Village, Opelika, Alabama (AL) is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended trip, Opelika is a destination that offers something for everyone. From its inviting atmosphere to its mix of history and outdoor beauty, Opelika will leave you wanting to return time and time again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the top attractions in Opelika, Alabama?

The top attractions include Downtown Opelika, Chewacla State Park, and Opelika City Lake.

Is Opelika a family-friendly destination?

Yes! Opelika offers many activities for families, including outdoor parks, a historic downtown, and festivals.

What is the best time to visit Opelika, Alabama?

The best time to visit Opelika is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are at their peak.

Can I enjoy outdoor activities in Opelika year-round?

Yes, outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and visiting local parks can be enjoyed year-round in Opelika.