Every year, more students pour into the city of Auburn – some for the academics, some for the campus and some for the SEC school atmosphere. Alongside football gamedays, highly anticipated rivalry games and Auburn’s large fan base, the college town is also known for its nightlife.
When the sun goes down, especially on the weekends, Auburn students and fans alike assemble in downtown Auburn. No matter the bar, the experience is one that encourages those who attend to return time and time again.
However, the party scene is not for everyone. Rest assured, if someone is not interested in Auburn’s nightlife, this college town still has so much to offer.
If one enjoys spending time outdoors, Auburn is home to its own state park. Chewacla State Park was established in 1939, and the nearly 700-acre park offers waterfalls, hiking trails and a 26-acre lake to swim and fish in. Chewacla provides those who prefer the outdoors a spot to relax, reflect and recharge.
If the weather is not cooperating or one is not fond of the outdoors, Auburn still has everyone covered.
The Recreation and Wellness Center – more commonly known as The Rec – is located next to Neville Arena and offers an indoor track, rock climbing, racquetball, basketball courts, cardio machines and weights. The Rec also has a “200,000-gallon resort-style pool with a 12-foot diving well, two basketball goals, a wet climbing wall and swimming lanes,” according to the The Rec’s website.
For those looking to get involved in a sport, Auburn offers both club and intramural sports.
Auburn University has 29 club teams, which allow students to continue playing the sports they love at a competitive level. Club sports are competitive but not associated with the NCAA. Participating in a club sport allows athletes an opportunity to compete with other university teams. As club sports are competitive and tend to participate in tournaments, they do require a fee.
Auburn offers intramural sports as well. Everyone is welcome to play intramural sports, no matter the skill level. Most of Auburn’s intramural leagues and events are free, unless there is an off-site tournament that requires a fee.
For those interested in getting involved, more information can be found on The Rec’s website.
Not everyone enjoys spending their free time doing something active. For those that fall into this category, the Auburn-Opelika area offers plenty of shopping opportunities. Downtown Auburn contains numerous boutiques, such as Charming Oaks, Therapy Boutique and Behind the Glass. These boutiques are walkable and are located near Toomer’s Corner.
The University’s Tiger Transit system offers a shopping service on Friday evenings to locations farther from campus. The shuttle begins at 5:30 p.m. and concludes at 9:30 p.m.
This allows students to visit Auburn Mall and Tiger Town, both of which include numerous shops.
If thrift shopping catches one's eye, Auburn-Opelika has numerous thrift stores. The closest to campus is Thrifty Lizard, which is located at the corner of College Street and South Donahue Drive. Other notable thrift stores are located in the Opelika area, such as America’s Thrift Store, Harvest Thrift Store and Lifesavers Mission Thrift.
It is important to note, especially for on-campus students without transportation, that events are constantly being hosted on Auburn’s campus. These offer an easy way to become involved, spend time with friends and meet new people.
Upcoming events are listed on the AU Involve page, which can be located through the student portal.
Although the nightlife is recognized by some to be one of the town’s key features, Auburn has much more to offer. Regardless of one's preferences, this college town will ensure an experience like no other.
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Kayleigh Freeman, freshman in journalism, is a news writer at The Auburn Plainsman.
