List of Things to Do in Auburn, AL: From Outdoor Adventures to Cultural Attractions
Auburn is a vibrant college town located in east-central Alabama, approximately 110 miles southwest of Atlanta and the same distance southeast of Birmingham, Alabama.
The city is home to Auburn University, a significant public research institution and one of the largest employers in the state. The university plays a significant role in shaping the city’s culture, economy, and community and is an essential source of innovation and growth for the region.
In addition to the university, Auburn boasts a strong and diverse economy, with a thriving business community and a growing population. The city is home to various local shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, major national retailers, and chain restaurants.
Auburn also has a robust tourism industry, with various attractions and events that draw visitors across the state and beyond.
Despite its growth and development, Auburn remains deeply connected to its history and traditions. The city is home to several historic landmarks and cultural institutions, including the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art and the Toomer’s Oaks, which are iconic symbols of Auburn University.
The city’s strong sense of community and pride is reflected in its many local festivals and events, including the Auburn CityFest and the Auburn Christmas Parade.
Auburn is a vibrant and welcoming city with a rich history and a bright future.
Chewacla State Park
Chewacla State Park is a beautiful 696-acre park located in Auburn, Alabama. The park offers visitors a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and mountain biking. It is a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The park’s centerpiece is a 26-acre lake perfect for fishing or swimming. The lake also offers a sandy beach area for sunbathing and picnicking. Visitors can also rent paddle boats, kayaks, and canoes to explore the lake.
In addition to the lake, Chewacla State Park has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the park’s natural beauty. The trails range from easy to moderate difficulty and are perfect for a stroll or a challenging hike.
The park also has a mountain biking trail that winds through the forested hillsides. The trail is suitable for all skill levels and offers an exciting way to explore the park’s landscape.
For those who want to spend the night, Chewacla State Park has several camping options. The park offers both RV and primitive camping and cabins for rent.
The campsites are spacious and well-maintained and offer easy access to many park activities. Chewacla State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Alabama.
Jule Collins Smith Museum
The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art is a world-class art museum located on the campus of Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama. The museum boasts an impressive collection of art from the 18th century to contemporary works.
It is a cultural hub for the region and offers visitors the opportunity to view exhibitions, attend lectures, and participate in educational programs. The museum also houses a gift shop and café, making it the perfect destination for a day trip.
The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, prints, and decorative arts worldwide. The museum’s permanent collection includes works by artists such as Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Mary Cassatt, and John James Audubon.
In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also hosts rotating exhibitions featuring various art styles and mediums. Recent exhibitions have included works by regional artists and large-scale installations by international artists.
The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art offers a variety of programs for children and adults, including art classes, workshops, and family-friendly events.
The museum also hosts events throughout the year, such as their annual Holiday Art Sale and the popular summer event, “A Little Lunch Music,” which features live music and lunch in the museum’s café.
Donald E. Davis Arboretum
The Donald E. Davis Arboretum is a 14-acre natural space located on the campus of Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama. The arboretum is home to a diverse collection of plants and trees and serves as a peaceful retreat for students, faculty, and visitors alike.
The arboretum is open year-round and offers a variety of walking trails and educational programs. It is a hidden gem in the heart of Auburn and a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
The arboretum features over 500 species of trees and shrubs, many of which are native to the southeastern United States. The collection includes magnolias, oaks, and dogwoods, as well as a variety of plants that bloom throughout the year.
Visitors can stroll along the walking trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the arboretum or participate in one of the many educational programs offered throughout the year. The arboretum also hosts plant sales, art exhibitions, and birding tours.
The Donald E. Davis Arboretum is more than just a beautiful natural space; it is also an essential resource for environmental education and research. The arboretum serves as a living laboratory for Auburn University students and researchers who study the plants and animals that call the arboretum home.
The arboretum also serves as a model for sustainable landscape practices, focusing on conservation and ecological stewardship. Donald E. Davis Arboretum is a valuable resource for the Auburn community and a beautiful destination for anyone looking to connect with nature.
Toomer’s Oaks
Toomer’s Oaks are two trees located at the intersection of Magnolia Avenue and College Street in Auburn, Alabama. The trees, over 130 years old, have become a symbol of Auburn University and a beloved landmark for the community.
They are famous for their role in the tradition of rolling the trees with toilet paper after an Auburn victory in football. They have become an iconic image associated with the university.
The trees have survived hurricanes, droughts, and even a fire, but unfortunately, they were poisoned in 2011 and subsequently removed in 2013.
The tradition of rolling Toomer’s Oaks began in the 1970s and has become an integral part of Auburn culture. After an Auburn victory, fans would gather at Toomer’s Corner and throw rolls of toilet paper into the branches of the trees, creating a beautiful and unique display.
The tradition continued for over 40 years, and the trees became a symbol of the Auburn spirit and a beloved part of the university’s history.
Although the original Toomer’s Oaks are no longer standing, their legacy lives on. In 2015, new oak trees were planted in their place, and the tradition of rolling them continues to this day.
The Toomer’s Oaks are a testament to the strong sense of community and pride that is a hallmark of Auburn University and remain an imessentialart of the university’s history and culture.
Kreher Preserve & Nature Center
The Kreher Preserve & Nature Center is a 120-acre natural space in Auburn, Alabama. The preserve offers a variety of walking trails, educational programs, and outdoor activities for visitors of all ages.
The center is dedicated to promoting conservation, education, and outdoor recreation and is an essential resource for the community. The preserve is open year-round and offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Alabama.
The preserve features diverse habitats, including wetlands, forests, and meadows. Visitors can explore the hiking trails and see a variety of plant and animal species, including deer, foxes, and a wide variety of bird species.
The center also offers a variety of educational programs and events, including guided hikes, nature camps, and hands-on workshops. The preserve is an excellent destination for families and anyone looking to connect with nature.
The Kreher Preserve & Nature Center is also home to various sustainable features and practices. ThFor example, theenter’s LEED-certified Welcome Center showcases sustainable design and construction, while the preserve is managed with a focus on conservation and ecological stewardship.
The center also features a variety of educational exhibits and displays, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices and environmental education.
Kreher Preserve & Nature Center is a valuable resource for the Auburn community and a beautiful destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Alabama.