History Loves Your Company, and Opelika has plenty of history and character. It’s a sister town to Auburn, which is home to one of the largest colleges in the country. Never lived in a town right next door to a college town? Then you are missing out on a lot of smiles, art, and social activities that colleges offer.
College towns and areas near them are “cool.”
They attract young adults, families, and even seniors, all who seek the amenities of a large city but with a hometown feel.
In other words, more than likely, a small town provides the opportunity for you to be on a first-name basis with the owner of the local pizza place or to know your child’s teacher and also say hi each day to local law enforcement.
Each of these are a part of the character of historic Opelika! But there is so much more.
This city has a heart that beats “Welcome.” Its southern charm will keep you busy and smiling with specialty stores, cool hangouts, and innovative dining—some of which you only find in larger cities.
Walk the downtown area in the evenings and know you have escaped the rush of a larger city.
The online magazine Soul Grown says, “This historic town has timeless landmarks around every corner. . . . It marries a nostalgic small-town feel to offerings sought after in city suburbs . . . . Don’t be surprised if it steals the show and also your heart!”
Five Cool Things About Opelika-Auburn
Historic Downtown History is important to communities. It provides a sense of belonging and even pride. Opelika’s Promenade and the Lee County Courthouse offer stunning neoclassical revival-style structures, which were built in 1896 and are still the county’s working courthouse today.
Historic homes and the Lee County Historical Society Museum are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Opelika’s downtown is the Northside Historic District. We encourage potential home buyers to take a step back in time with a stroll through the neighborhood that features turn-of-the-century homes restored to their original grandeur.
The Whitfield-Searcy House, a Queen Anne Victorian home built in 1895 that now serves as the Opelika Chamber of Commerce, is another historic Opelika landmark that should not be missed.
Enjoy the Street Art Community “Not to be outdone by Nashville’s ‘I love you so much’ mural and Birmingham’s iconic “It’s Nice to Have You,” Opelika has its own set of Insta-worthy spots. Find the bright blue “Bless You” mural for a taste of Southern culture. Rain or shine, don’t leave downtown without finding the Yellow Umbrella mural.” (SoulGrow Magazine)
Shop! When it comes to Opelika’s shopping scene, there’s plenty to keep a person busy. Also, remember, when choosing a location for your new home, it’s important to study the convenience of your location. Nearby Auburn has shopping and dining opportunities, but Opelika has plenty to offer.
Start at Southern Crossing for upscale home décor and gifts. For women’s clothing, Studio 3:19 is a trending spot for lady’s ready to wear. Sustainable men’s clothier Griff Goods offers a lot for this hip space that seems more suited to New York or L.A. than the “Deep South.” Then, step next door to thumb through the record stacks at 10,000 Hz Records for vintage and new vinyl.
Finally, finish your shopping spree with a specialty coffee from the open-air coffee shop Mama Mocha’s.
Southern Dining at its Best For dinner with a view, check out the second-floor patio of Zazu Gastropub. Dine on farm-fresh Southern dishes like blackened catfish and pecan-smoked brisket while overlooking Opelika’s quaint storefronts below. Looking for something even more upscale? Try Café One Twenty-Three offering Southern fine dining with classic French influence.
Mini Breweries For a Southern town of a little more than 30,000 people, Opelika more than appreciates the fun of local breweries.
Two local breweries attract evening gatherings with great locally brewed beer: Red Clay Brewing Company and Resting Pulse Brewing Company.
In 2015, two Auburn University grads paired up with an Ole Miss alum to open Red Clay. Four years later, Resting Pulse followed. Resting Pulse says their name reflects their background but also reflects the image we are striving to achieve.
Both offer laidback vibes, a rotating menu of small-batch brews, and snacks to pair!
Our local and long-distance movers know how to get you to this location and countless others. Of course, this one is a favorite because it is our home-base, and we are partial to Opelika. For more information about this great southern town and its vibe for growth and a home-like feel contact the Opelika Chamber of Commerce.
Already sold on the location? Call us for an in-depth conversation about your move and how we can be a part of it.
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