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Overview

Chugging trains, drive-in movies, picturesque old town fronts, midcentury manors, water mills, and colossal glass arenas seem like projections of different centuries and decades, all of which can be found at once in Alabama’s Opelika. The city of Opelika truly exudes its rich heritage and opportunities for a bright future in every establishment. Each phase of the city serves as a testament to each period its walls withstood, or at least, plans to. The county seat of Lee County is also Auburn-Opelika Metropolitan Area’s county seat.

Things to Do

Amateur to professional golfers can all practice in Opelika’s range of courses, the most difficult of which is the Grand National Golf Course. But the difficulty level is worth the challenge as the area is considered one of the nation’s best golf courses. The Saugahatchee Country Club is also an excellent place to practice some golf, as it is designed with some well-bunkered fairways. Guests can also shop at the Courthouse Square Antique Mall throughout the year, with displays of regional artists for sale. Tourists can also perform a workout in along the Nashua River Trail for a chance to explore the city’s wildlife. Meanwhile, Murphy Lake provides residents and guests with opportunities for fishing and canoeing.

Tourist Attractions

The Troy-Pike Cultural Center is one of Opelika’s newest gems. An innovative group of artists saw potential in a defunct post office building, and converted the place into an amusing art gallery. Apart from high-quality exhibits, the center helps struggling artists be recognized. The place has also hosted some educational and musical events. Bean’s Mill is one of the city’s most visited monuments, which features perfectly restored Bean’s Mill Markers.

Accommodation Tips

The Microtel Inn and Suites Opelika is an ideal lodging place for business travelers. The budget-friendly hotel is near the Opelika Historic District. Guests can relax at facilities such as the outdoor swimming pool, spa and fitness center. Complimentary breakfasts, free parking and 24-hour assistance from the front desk makes this hotel truly welcoming. The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites is an ideal place to stay in for on-the-go travelers. Large rooms decked in contemporary furnishings provide a comfortable private place for guests. A heated pool and whirlpool decked in tropical setting is available to guests looking for relaxation. For a plush, comfortably stay, guests can choose the Marriott Auburn Opelika, with surrounding areas that teem with an alluring urban vibe mixed with the history of the old city. 

Best Museums

The Museum of East Alabama has been housing more than 5,000 artifacts for 22 years. The establishment is located at the center of the historical downtown district. Patrons can access the vast collection of 19th and 20th century historical items. Just next to the museum is the Lee County Courthouse square, which also provides an interesting historical detour. The Opelika Northside Historic District features restored turn-of-the-century establishments, preserving much of the city’s grandeur. The Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, meanwhile, is an interactive historical center depicting the American wildlife. The Luccieanno Museum and Pipe Collection proudly displays the world’s rarest assortment of pipes and cigars. You can visit this at Pleasant Drive anytime; just don’t bring the kids around.