Surf Side Water Park, Auburn, AL

Slide into a cool pool of water that will give you goosebumps on these hot days at Surf Side Water Park.

by Ashley Thompson | July 25, 2010

The kids are asking you when can we go on a vacation. You’re dreaming about vacations at work. You’re also dreaming about having the money and the time to go on a vacation. There’s a solution that will be perfect for the kids and your wallet.

Surf Side Water Park in Auburn is the perfect place to have a fun weekend, or a “staycation” as I like to call it. Get away from …

Angel’s Antiques, Opelika, AL

An affordable and amazing shopping experience.

by Ashley Thompson | July 18, 2010

Opelika holds one of the best treasures of our area. Angel’s Antiques is one of those places that I could literally spend hours in.

This antique store is like none that I have other seen. Locals, and some not-so-locals, set up booths in rows upon rows across the store. And these booths seem to go on forever reaching football field size. In this store, there will surely be something for everyone.

Some …

The Independent, Auburn, AL

The best live music, vegan food and the best bands from all around the south.

by Ashley Thompson | July 12, 2010

The best place in Auburn to listen to live music is The Independent. True to it’s name, The Independent books bands from independent labels playing everything from rock and roll to sweet country blues. When looking for a night out or a place to sip a beer and listen to some good tunes, stop here.

Local bands and bands from all across the country stop here for the fun crowd and the unique …

Toomer’s Drug Store, Auburn, AL

Stop by for a bit of Auburn tradition by getting a hot dog and a famous freshly squeezed lemonade.

by Ashley Thompson | July 11, 2010

The days are long and hot here in Auburn. On days like these here in the south we like nothing more than to sit on our front porches with a cold glass of lemonade and watch the people pass by.

Of course, when someone thinks about lemonade in Auburn there is only one place to go. Toomer’s Drug Store has been making freshly squeezed lemonade since 1896. Coining the term for downtown, “Toomer’s …

Maestro, Auburn, Al

One of the best desserts I have ever had and one of the most wonderful evenings.

by Ashley Thompson | June 27, 2010

Wednesday night was a night out with the girls. We were looking for a place to have dinner and decided to try Maestro, a new restaurant in town. It was the perfect pick.

Maestro is a Mediterranean style restaurant with a southern flare. White tale cloths, ornate place settings and beautiful stemware are placed on every table. The walls are dark brown and there are beautiful, long white curtains hanging as partitions …

Earth Fare, Auburn, AL

Come by for the grand opening of an organic supermarket fueled by the community and local growers.

by Ashley Thompson | June 21, 2010

Now that it’s summer, everyone in Auburn is slowing down with the heat. People are tan and happy during the summer days in the south and right now we have something here to smile about. All of Auburn is buzzing about the opening of Earth Fare.

Earth Fare is a supermarket that is focused on healthy food with out pesticides, artificial colors and added trans-fats. Here you can find everything from organic …

Grand National, Opelika, AL

The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail has a no better course than the one in our backyard.

by Ashley Thompson | June 17, 2010

It’s a beautiful day here in Auburn/Opelika and the look on everyone’s face says, “I’d rather be golfing.” Here there is no better place to go golfing than Grand National.  Built on scenic Lake Saugahatchee, the Robert Trent Jones at Grand National is one of the most spectacular golf courses in Alabama.

Ranked as the top public golf course in the 2009 Golf World Readers’ Choice Awards, Grand National proves itself to …

Cafe One Twenty Three, Opelika, AL

Here you can find fine dining and the best bread pudding in the state.

by Ashley Thompson | June 13, 2010

Bread pudding is one of my favorite desserts in the world. Or one of my favorite meals in the world. Café One Twenty Three in Opelika, Al has some of the best bread pudding I have ever tasted and any southerner worth their salt would agree.

Café 123 is a fine dining restaurant in the heart of historic downtown Opelika. The atmosphere is modern and friendly. The first time I went there …

The Fourth of July Celebration, Auburn, AL

One of the most anticipated events in Auburn with an amazing display of their annual fireworks show.

by Ashley Thompson | June 07, 2010

It’s almost that time of year when I start stocking up on sparklers and strawberry pies. It’s almost the fourth of July.

This year I will be spending my Independence day at the Annual Fourth of July Celebration at Duck Samford Park. Sponsored by Briggs & Stratton and Auburn Pars and Recreation, The Fourth of July Celebration will be an all day event complete with live music, food and free treats for the whole …

Summer Night, Auburn, AL

A night of art, music, food and fun in downtown Auburn.

by Ashley Thompson | June 03, 2010

Auburn is getting ready for a night of art, music and fun. The Summer Night downtown art walk is coming June 19^th on the streets of downtown Auburn.

The shops of downtown open up their doors and the community gathers on the sidewalk. Enjoy local artists' displays or even live demonstrations of real works of art in progress. Even the kids can get art painted on their faces.

Get a snow cone on …

Gnu’s Room, Auburn, AL

One of Auburn's little treasures is the little used book store with personality and pizazz.

by Ashley Thompson | May 31, 2010

I love the smell of an old book. To me, there is nothing better than running my hands down a shelf of books with the spines feathered and cracked with love and wear.

Gnu’s Room is the best used book store in Auburn. Locally owned and bursting with personality, Gnu’s Room is the best place to look for a rainy day afternoon read, or a great gift for a friend.
…

Calypso’s, Auburn, AL

There's a new Greek restaurant in town with American flare and a sports bar to boot!

by Ashley Thompson | May 24, 2010

There is a new face lighting up Auburn. Calypso’s Greek Restaurant and Sports Bar is welcomed on North College Street in the heart of downtown Auburn. Not only is this restaurant close to everything, but it’s also great Greek food!

The front part of the restaurant is an open-air, and my husband and I grabbed a booth and enjoyed the warm breeze over a pair of cold colas. Walking back we went inside …

Lake Martin, Dadeville, AL

This Memorial Day weekend beat the heat and take a plunge into Lake Martin.

by Ashley Thompson | May 21, 2010

Memorial Day weekend is coming up soon! One of the best parts about Auburn is that you don’t have to go far to go on a “vacation.” Auburn visitors and residents alike enjoy going to one place to celebrate Memorial Day: Lake Martin.

Load up the hot dogs, the grill, the floats and the sunscreen and head up Highway 280 to get to fun in the sun. Nothing says Memorial Day better than …

The Market at Ag Heritage Park, Auburn, AL

Take a bite out of one of the best parts of Auburn--The delicious and fresh farmers market in Auburn

by Ashley Thompson | May 16, 2010

These days in Auburn the smell of honeysuckles perfume the air. The days are slow and the lemonade is cold. These days are the perfect ones to able about the farmers market.

The 2010 season of the Market at Ag Heritage Park is sure to be a delicious hit. The Market is held each Thursday afternoon from 3 -6. After parking in a large field you stroll to the stands and stands of …

Chewacla State Park, Auburn, AL

Chewacla is the perfect place to go camping by trails, lakes, waterfalls - it has it all!

by Ashley Thompson | May 12, 2010

Whether you are in town for a football weekend or you are looking for an outdoor adventure, then Chewacla State park is the best place to be. This park has it all.

Take a walk on the wonderful trails that go up scenic hills and across streams. Stop and lay out or play frisbee in the large fields. Or, if you are planning a family reunion or small event, then take them along …

Summer Swing, Auburn, AL

During the warm months of the summer, come out to Opelika to enjoy some great tunes in the 2010 Summer Concert Series!

by Ashley Thompson | May 09, 2010

The summer days are slow and sweet in the south. In Auburn all we want to do is sit around with good people and sip on something cold while listening to good music. The Summer Swing allows us to do just that.

Every Tuesday night starting on May 11^th until August 10^th locals and visitors can come out to enjoy a fantastic concert series hosted by the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department. The concerts …

Spa Auburn, Auburn, AL

You deserve to let your problems melt away and get pampered at a relaxing spa.

by Ashley Thompson | May 03, 2010

Don’t you wish someone was massaging your shoulders right now? Close your eyes and you can almost hear the soft music, the warm bed, and you melting away into another world.

Right now is the time to make your appointment with Spa Auburn. The courteous staff will help you leave your workday behind you. The atmosphere will help you step into a stress free zone. I’m not even sure what that is …

Sips n Strokes, Auburn, AL

Take a step-by-step painting class all while drinking your favorite beverage with your friends.

by Ashley Thompson | May 01, 2010

This Tuesday my girlfriends and I wanted to do something fun for one of our friends. We thought about it and decided we would take her out to Sips n Strokes in Auburn. At Sips n Strokes, you pay for a canvas and take a step-by-step instructional course on how to paint a painting, all while drinking your beverage of choice.

We arrived at 6:45 and walked up to the front counter. …

Mike and Ed’s, Auburn, AL

The perfect place to take care of a craving or to feed your entire tailgate with the best barbecue in town.

by Ashley Thompson | April 26, 2010

Now that I’ve talked about the first football game, I have to talk about barbecue. With great sports comes great tailgating food. And if you’re in Auburn for a game, then it’s almost a requirement that you go to Mike and Ed’s Barbecue.

If you’re downtown during the day, the smell of the smoked pork and beef will almost lead you to the building. Think of a pie in the window of …

Auburn Football vs. Arkansas State, Auburn, AL

Auburn gears up for its first football game of the season this September.

by Ashley Thompson | April 19, 2010

After the A-Day game in Auburn there was electricity in the air. Football season is almost here. The countdown begins until the first day of Auburn football.

If you’ve never been to an Auburn game then you need to call right now to make whatever kind of arrangements you need to. It’s almost an indescribable feeling. Seeing the swarms of orange T-shirts. Smelling charcoal and grilled hamburgers. Snacking on boiled peanuts. It’s …

Heroes Take Flight Fly In, Auburn, AL

A fun day for the whole family benefiting the Lee County Red Cross programs.

by Ashley Thompson | April 18, 2010

Taking place this Armed Forces Day, the Heroes Take Flight Annual Fly-In will be the event of May. Even astronaut Jim Voss will be there!

The Fly-In is an event that is fun for the whole family. Grab a hot dog, listen to good music and, of course, marvel at the airplanes. Even if you aren’t an aviation enthusiast this event is awe-inspiring and fun. At the Fly-In, you can experience war …

Recycle Auburn Drop Off Center, Auburn, AL

Everyone can do their part by keeping Auburn going green by recycling whenever they can.

by Ashley Thompson | April 17, 2010

Auburn is going green. And not just because it’s the end of spring. As a community we’re making steps in the right direction to make this the loveliest village on the plains for now and for years to come.

On Tuesday morning throughout the downtown part of Auburn the recycling trucks come through streets and neighborhoods. Although we don’t have designated bins, it’s always surprising to see how many people put out plastic boxes …

Ellie Boutique, Auburn, AL

The perfect place to go shopping for a new outfit in downtown Auburn.

by Ashley Thompson | April 12, 2010

Spring is finally here and if you’re like me you’ve started to do a little spring cleaning. I started off with my closet and finished by realizing that I need a new spring wardrobe.  When I need new clothes there is no better place to go than Ellie Boutique in downtown Auburn.

Ellie offers stylish and unique items of clothing for women. Get the perfect top for a night on the town or the …

The Donald E. Davis Arboretum, Auburn, AL

When you visit Auburn and the weather is nice, this is a must-see place and would be perfect for an afternoon picnic.

by Ashley Thompson | April 09, 2010

Here in Auburn everything is blooming and the trees have bright new green leaves on them. Spring is here and it is wonderful. A storm came through yesterday which, thankfully, washed all the pollen away and left crisp blue skies. Today was the perfect day to go to the Arboretum. 

The Donald E. Davis Arboretum is located at 241 South College St. Surprisingly I had never been before until today. It was …

On The Tracks, Opelika, AL

On The Tracks is an outdoor wine and food event with great live music.

by Ashley Thompson | April 04, 2010

On The Tracks in downtown Opelika is one of the can’t-miss events of the year.  Opelika is Auburn’s sister town and is located about 20 minutes away. The downtown area is quaint and exciting.  Old brick buildings with innovative stores, restaurants, and martini bars litter downtown.  And, if you couldn’t guess by the name, a railroad track runs through the heart of it all.

On The Tracks is a food and wine …

St. Dunstan’s, Auburn, AL

St. Dunstan's is a historic and lovely, must-see church in downtown Auburn.

by Ashley Thompson | March 31, 2010

It doesn’t matter if you are religious or not, Auburn is a great place to come to and look at churches. Whether you are looking for a place to worship on Sunday morning or beautiful building to marvel at, there is something for everyone here.

Auburn is known for it’s friendliness and I learned that on my first real visit to Auburn when I was 17. My family and I were walking around downtown …

Lee County Humane Society, Auburn, AL

A great place to visit if you are looking to adopt or just looking to play with some precious animals for the day.

by Ashley Thompson | March 28, 2010

When it’s a slow day in Auburn and you are looking for something to do, the Lee County Humane Society is both fulfilling and fun. When you walk in the door you are greeted by friendly faces and wagging tails of all kinds. It’s he perfect way to spend the afternoon.

The Lee County Humane Society is located at 1140 Ware Drive. They serve keep animals happy, healthy and ready to be …

180 Wellness Spa, Auburn, AL

The Insider's choice for the best way to melt your stress away.

by Ashley Thompson | March 22, 2010

Where do you go when you want to relax? Some read a book and eat ice cream. My favorite thing to do would be to go to 180 Wellness Spa for a day of relaxation.

Located at 1100 S College St, 180 Wellness Spa is the perfect way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I find it hard to worry about the usual stuff when I’m on …

Reinvent, Auburn, AL

A little shop on the South Gay Street that makes recycling look cool.

by Ashley Thompson | March 21, 2010

Saturday was just as wonderful as Friday. Maybe even more so because my husband and I didn’t have to work. We had a lazy day, enjoying the sunshine and we decided to go downtown to do a little shopping.  Our only stop was the shops on South Gay Street.

A few weeks ago I had gone to a baby shower for a friend of mine.  My favorite gift of the day was a baby …

Crepe Myrtle Cafe, Auburn, AL

Aperfect little cafe that serves hearty crepes and smiles.

by Ashley Thompson | March 19, 2010

It’s one of those perfect days on The Plains.  The sun is shining, there’s a light breeze and it’s not too hot or too cold out.  On this beautiful day there was only one place I wanted to go for lunch; The Crepe Myrtle Café.
 
The Crepe Myrtle Café, if you couldn’t guess from the name, sells crepes!  But these are not just any regular crepes with jam, these crepes are …

CityFest, Auburn, AL

Come out for food and fun at Auburn's CityFest in April.

by Ashley Thompson | March 15, 2010

Spring is almost here!  All around Auburn daffodils are blooming, trees are starting to bud little green leaves and there is excitement in the air.

Plan your trip here now to see the city in bloom and join us for a little fun.  On Saturday, April 24, the city of Auburn will come out to Kiesel Park for a time that will be fun for the whole family.  Enjoy good fine, fine art, and …

The Auburn Ale House and Strutting Duck, Auburn, AL

The best pub in Auburn to celebrate St. Patrick's Day.

by Ashley Thompson | March 08, 2010

For St. Patrick’s Day, put on your green or get pinched, and celebrate at a real pub.  Maybe it’s not an Irish pub, but they will be serving Irish beer.

The Olde Auburn Ale House is located just behind College Street tucked in behind all of the hustle and bustle.  Recently they joined up with The Strutting Duck, formerly located on the west end of Auburn on Wire Road to give you …

Fine Wine and Beer by Gus, Auburn, AL

The best place in Auburn to buy beer and wine, and to enjoy them at tastings.

by Ashley Thompson | March 07, 2010

If you’ve never been to Fine Wine and Beer by Gus (but I know you’ve wanted to), then this should be your week.  With weekly wine tastings, beer tastings, and free events with food, this is a must stop place in Auburn.

The shop walls are lined with some of the best wine in America. Have a “weird beer night” at your house this weekend where you pick out beers from all …

India Garden, Auburn, AL

A taste of India in your own back yard.

by Ashley Thompson | March 03, 2010

For a delicious meal and a taste of a different culture, go to India Garden.  India Garden is a new Indian restaurant in town, and if you’re familiar with the Auburn area, it’s located where The Breezeway used to be on Opelika Road. 

Although it’s only been open for a few weeks, everyone I’ve talked to that has gone has given it rave reviews. I finally got to go this weekend, and …

Auburn University, Auburn, AL

Take a guided tour through the campus or take an adventure on your own.

by Ashley Thompson | March 02, 2010

Any time is a great time to tour the Auburn University campus.  Sitting in the heart of the city is the states first land-grant university on 1,841 acres. Whether you are a prospective student, Auburn fan, or just plain curious, take a tour of the school and see why we are called the loveliest village on the plains.

To get a great view of the campus with the friendly smile of a …

Dog Park at Kiesel Park, Auburn, AL

A fenced in area in Auburn where you can take your dog off its leash and let it play all day

by Ashley Thompson | March 02, 2010

When the weather is nice here, there is no happier place in Auburn then the dog park. On the south side of Auburn in the rolling hills of Kiesel Park, there is a place that is just for dogs.  And dog lovers of course. 

Sunday the weather was wonderful. It was sixty degrees with a light breeze and not a single cloud in the sky.  With one look my husband and I …

Tutti Frutti, Auburn, AL

Tutti Frutti has opened its doors in Auburn serving delicious frozen yogurt and tons of toppings to all.

by Ashley Thompson | February 21, 2010

Although everyone in Auburn was sad to see Cambridge Coffee close, we are so happy to see someone new fill the space.  Recently Tutti Frutti opened it’s doors on North College Street across from Samford Hall.

Tutti Frutti is a frozen yogurt place, but it’s not just any frozen yogurt place.  First you get a small or large cup from the front and then you walk over to the wall of soft …

Travel Guide to Auburn, AL

Why you should visit Auburn, Alabama

by Ashley Thompson | February 15, 2010

Why visit Auburn?  There isn’t enough time to tell you all of the reasons, but I will hit the highlights, as you will make your hotel reservations.  Let me be your travel guide for today.

First and foremost, you should visit Auburn for its passion for sports.  Eat a hotdog in the sunshine during a baseball game.  Or dig into some nachos at a basketball game.  But of course, come for a football game.  The atmosphere …

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Auburn, AL

The Spelling Bee is a musical that is funny and A-W-E-S-O-M-E!

by Ashley Thompson | February 11, 2010

The Auburn University Department of Theatre will welcome The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee to Auburn this February.  The Spelling Bee is a hilarious one-act musical comedy.  Six quirky kids from Putnam County Middle School compete in a spelling bee with the encouragement of three goofy adults.

Although the show is about kids, the very adult actors deal with adult …

Bourbon Street Bar, Auburn, AL

Bourbon Street Bar is the best place in Auburn to celebrate Fat Tuesday.

by Ashley Thompson | February 09, 2010

For beads and brews, look no further than Bourbon St. In Auburn it is no different. Bourbon Street Bar located at 103 N. College St., is the best place to celebrate Mardi Gras.  Living up to its name, it is a place where the locals can get a true New Orleans experience in their own back yard.

Whether you are celebrating Mardi Gras, a football game, or just a …

Love Your Heart Run, Auburn, AL

To celebrate Heart Health Month Auburn hosts a run and a bike event to raise money for persons with special needs.

by Ashley Thompson | February 05, 2010

February is National Heart Health Month.  Cardiovascular disease is the nation’s top killer and this month people are encouraged to fight that statistic.  Throughout February, men and women are encouraged to do more to help their heart health and to get annual screenings.

Auburn is doing its part to raise awareness.  This coming Saturday, February 6th, The Exceptional Outreach Organization and The Auburn-Opelika Running and Track Association sponsor the Love Your Heart …

The Auburn Oyster Bar & Grill, Auburn, AL

The Oyster Bar is the best place in Auburn to watch The Super Bowl.

by Ashley Thompson | February 03, 2010

When the Super Bowl is on, where is the place you want to be? In Auburn, the answer is easy: The Auburn Oyster Bar and Grill.

The Oyster Bar has huge TV screens throughout the bar and one extra-large one in the main dining area. So that wherever you are in the restaurant, or even on the outside patio, you are always a part of the game.

No …

A Meal To Heal, Auburn, AL

On February 1st, Auburn students in partnership with the Lee County Red cross will host a dinner to benefit Haiti Relif.

by Ashley Thompson | January 31, 2010

Auburn is a caring community and nothing proves it more than when the local community comes together to help others in need.  This week Auburn residents will be given the opportunity to be a part of the Haiti earthquake relief efforts.

This Monday, February 1 the Red Cross has partnered with Auburn University students to help bring the community together over dinner. "A Meal to Heal" will be served by Pannie George’s from 5:00 - 9:00 …

Fountainview Mansion, Auburn, AL

A romantic getaway in Auburn that makes you feel like you are in the English Countryside.

by Ashley Thompson | January 29, 2010

In Auburn there is no more romantic place to go then Fountainview Mansion.  World class service, combined with old world refinery takes you away to another world of charm and elegance in a comfortable setting.

The mansion is located within the Auburn city limits on 100 sprawling acres of a picturesque country setting.  Take a walk hand in hand with your sweetheart at sunset.  The Mansion is located on a hill perfect …

Mellow Mushroom, Auburn, AL

Mellow Mushroom serves pizzas and smiles to kids of all ages.

by Ashley Thompson | January 24, 2010

Mellow Mushroom is one of those places that you walk into and feel instantly at ease.  The Auburn Mellow Mushroom sits in the heart of downtown at 128 College St.  It may not be unique to just Auburn, but it is uniquely a part of what makes Auburn. 

Pizzas there are made with spring fresh dough and measure up to the word hearty.  Toppings range from sausage, artichokes, anchovies, fresh mozzarella, feta …

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, Auburn, AL

Auburn University’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art is January’s "must see" in Auburn!

by Ashley Thompson | January 19, 2010

In 1948 Auburn’s Chair of the School of Art and Architecture, Frank Applebee, purchased 36 paintings from a government auction.  The paintings were formerly on tour with the hopes to show the world progressive American art.  The paintings were not well received at the time and Applebee purchased them for $1,072.  Among these paintings were from artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Jacob Lawrence, Ben Shahn and others. 

In 1992 Auburn received a donation of a large …

The University Chapel, Auburn, AL

The University Chapel on the campus of Auburn University remains an icon of Auburn's history.

by Ashley Thompson | January 17, 2010

Located on College Street in the heart of the city is one of our most iconic buildings.  Across the street from the other, Samford Hall, stands The University Chapel.  The little chapel is well known to most Auburn students as the school’s oldest building. Built in 1851 as a Presbyterian church, it remains on its original site.

Over the years the church has held many purposes: a Confederate hospital for soldiers in the Civil War, a …

Amsterdam Cafe, Auburn, AL

Amsterdam Cafe is the perfect blend of local eatery and world-class atmosphere.

by Ashley Thompson | January 14, 2010

When friends or family come to town to visit and they ask where we should go eat my local favorites are always on the top of the list.  Amsterdam Café is on the top of my top. 

It’s a small restaurant with warm colored glass chandeliers, amber walls and black furniture. . The walls are lined with prints of Van Gogh and pictures of Amsterdam, Germany. Its small quarters allow it to be filled …

Taylor’s Bakery, Auburn, AL

Heat up during the winter months with some of the best hot chocolate in Auburn.

by Ashley Thompson | January 10, 2010

This week Auburn was buzzing with the possibility of snow.  There is a cold snap across the nation and our region has been experiencing some unusually cold winter weather.  On Thursday a front moved in and dusted most of Alabama with snow—most of Alabama. 

Even though the forecast said we were going to get snow late Thursday night, Auburn was graced with really cold rain and sleet. It was big letdown for some and a relief …