Opelika AL

Opelika – Where Southern charm meets modern spirit, Opelika, Alabama, is a welcoming town full of rich history, friendly faces, and a growing community vibe. Whether you're strolling through its revitalized downtown filled with unique boutiques and local eateries or exploring the natural beauty of Chewacla State Park just minutes away, Opelika offers small-town warmth with big-hearted adventure. It’s the kind of place where tradition and progress walk hand in hand.

• Population: ~31,000
• Weather: Mild winters and warm summers (35-90°F); plenty of sunshine year-round.
• Places To Visit: Downtown Historic District, Opelika Train Depot, Municipal Park, Museum of East Alabama, Botanic Garden at Auburn University.
• Top Activities: Exploring local trails, visiting antique shops, catching live music downtown, attending seasonal festivals, and golfing at renowned courses.
• Famous Food: Southern BBQ at Butcher Paper BBQ, burgers and shakes at Sneak and Dawdle, handcrafted coffee at Sidetrack Coffee, and classic southern comfort dishes at Niffer’s Place.

Opelika, Alabama, offers a growing job market with opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, education, and logistics. Its strategic location near Auburn and access to industrial resources make it a prime area for both skilled trades and professional careers. Below are five of the top jobs bustling in the Opelika area.

Top 5 Jobs in Opelika, AL

Opelika, Alabama might not be a sprawling city, but it’s packed with charm, southern hospitality, and some awesome spots where students can kick back and have a good time. Whether you’re studying at Southern Union State Community College or commuting from nearby Auburn, Opelika offers plenty of hidden gems to relax, hang out with friends, and enjoy your time outside the classroom.

Downtown Opelika – This historic area is a hotspot for students looking to unwind. With cute coffee shops, local boutiques, and public art, it’s perfect for an afternoon stroll. Grab a latte at Stay Golden Coffee Co. or sample locally brewed beers at Red Clay Brewing Company (great for students 21 and up).

Municipal Park & Monkey Park – Need a break from screens? Head to Municipal Park. The walking trails, covered picnic spots, and the old-school wooden train structure at the adjacent “Monkey Park” make it perfect for chilling with friends or getting fresh air after classes.

CyberZone – When you're in the mood for some indoor fun, CyberZone is the place. Laser tag, arcade games, VR, and escape rooms—it’s a blast whether you're blowing off steam solo or planning a group night out.

O Grows Farmers Market – Held seasonally in downtown Opelika, this market is great for getting fresh local produce, trying homemade treats, and supporting community growers. It’s also a relaxed place to meet people and enjoy the local vibe on a warm Saturday morning.

Splash Pad at Municipal Park – Feeling nostalgic or just want to cool off during warmer months? The splash pad is great for relaxing and laughing with friends. It may sound like it’s for kids, but lots of young adults know it’s one of Opelika’s best kept summer secrets.

Rock 'N Roll Pinball – Retro vibes, tons of classic machines, and a welcoming space for all ages. It’s a fun place to compete with friends or just hang out and try something different. Bonus: it’s located right in the heart of downtown.

Southern Trails Ale Works – Another fantastic spot for students over 21, this local brewery offers a welcoming atmosphere, game nights, and a rotating tap list. Great place for lowkey hangouts in the evening.

Opelika Wood Duck Heritage Preserve – If hiking, birdwatching, or quiet nature walks are more your speed, this serene spot is a must. It’s a great way to reset your mind and recharge after a long week of assignments and tests.

Tiger Town Shopping Center – When you just want to shop, grab some quick food, or catch a movie, Tiger Town has it all. It’s a great place to go when you want options without having to drive too far.

No matter what your vibe is—nature, games, food, or cozy conversations—Opelika has something for every kind of student. It’s a small city with a big heart, offering a mix of relaxation and fun that makes college life feel a lot more balanced.

Opelika, AL is part of the dynamic Auburn-Opelika metropolitan area, a region that values education and offers access to some of Alabama’s most respected colleges and universities. While Opelika itself is primarily known for its strong K-12 schools and vibrant community, students and residents enjoy connections to excellent higher education institutions nearby. Here’s a look at the top public and private colleges and universities serving the Opelika area.

Top Public Colleges & Universities near Opelika

Auburn University – Located just minutes from Opelika, Auburn University is one of the largest and most prestigious public universities in Alabama. It’s known for its top-ranked engineering, architecture, agriculture, and business programs, as well as its vibrant campus life.

Southern Union State Community College (Opelika Campus) – With a major campus right in Opelika, Southern Union is the go-to community college for students seeking associate degrees, transfer programs, and technical training in healthcare, business, and skilled trades.

Troy University (Phenix City Campus) – About a half-hour’s drive from Opelika, Troy University’s nearby campus offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business, education, social sciences, and more, popular with non-traditional and adult learners.

Columbus State University – Just across the Georgia border in Columbus and less than an hour from Opelika, CSU is known for its creative arts, education, business, and nursing programs, accessible to Opelika residents.

Chattahoochee Valley Community College – Located in Phenix City, this community college offers affordable transfer and career-focused programs for students from Opelika and the surrounding counties.

Top Private Colleges & Universities near Opelika

Tuskegee University – About 25 miles from Opelika, Tuskegee is a nationally renowned private historically Black university. It’s celebrated for its engineering, veterinary medicine, nursing, and liberal arts programs.

Point University – With its main campus in nearby West Point, Georgia, Point University is a Christian college offering degrees in business, ministry, education, and the arts, drawing students from Opelika and beyond.

Faulkner University (Montgomery Campus) – Though based in Montgomery (an hour from Opelika), Faulkner University provides in-person and online programs in business, law, education, and Christian studies, fitting a variety of educational needs.

Huntingdon College – A respected private liberal arts college in Montgomery, Huntingdon offers personalized education and strong programs in education, business, and pre-professional studies.

South University – Montgomery – This private institution specializes in healthcare, business, and criminal justice degrees, making it a practical choice for Opelika-area students seeking targeted professional training.

Whether you’re considering a large university experience, a supportive community college, or a specialized private college, the Opelika, AL region offers quality higher education options to help you pursue your goals with confidence.

Opelika, AL is a close-knit community that values education and academic achievement. Whether you're a parent researching the best school for your child or a student looking for the right environment to thrive, Opelika offers several standout public and private high schools that focus on excellence in academics, extracurriculars, and personal growth.

Here are the top 5 public and private high schools in Opelika, Alabama:

Top Public High Schools in Opelika, AL

• Opelika High School – As the flagship public high school in the area, Opelika High is known for its rigorous academic programs, award-winning arts, and a strong athletic tradition. The school offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and dual enrollment opportunities to help students get a head start on college.
• Beauregard High School – Located near Opelika and part of the Lee County School District, Beauregard High provides a solid education with a focus on community involvement. It’s recognized for its Career Tech programs and extracurricular achievements.
• Loachapoka High School – A smaller public school with a family-like atmosphere, Loachapoka High fosters a supportive learning environment. It’s ideal for students who benefit from more personalized attention and is known for its spirited student body and cultural pride.
• Smiths Station High School – Though technically located in a neighboring community, many families in the Opelika area choose Smiths Station for its advanced academic offerings, including AP and honors courses. The school also boasts a vibrant fine arts department and a competitive athletic program.
• Auburn High School – Just a short drive from Opelika, Auburn High is a top-ranked public school in the region. It offers a wide range of academic tracks, including International Baccalaureate (IB), and has a reputation for preparing students well for college and careers.

Top Private High Schools in Opelika, AL

• Lee-Scott Academy – This college-preparatory private school offers a strong academic curriculum with Christian values. With small class sizes and a low student-to-teacher ratio, students receive individualized attention. Lee-Scott also has robust athletic and arts programs, ensuring a well-rounded high school experience.
• Trinity Christian School – Trinity is a faith-based private school that teaches from a biblical worldview. It emphasizes character development along with academic growth. Many parents appreciate the tight-knit community and nurturing environment it provides.
• Cornerstone Christian Academy – Located in nearby Lakeview, this private school serves students in grades Pre-K through 12. Cornerstone provides a Christ-centered education with a focus on academics, personal responsibility, and spiritual growth.
• Auburn Classical Academy – Though located in Auburn, this private school draws many Opelika families interested in a classical Christian education. Auburn Classical emphasizes logic, rhetoric, and classical literature and provides a rigorous foundation in academic excellence.
• The Way Christian Academy – A newer but growing private school in the area, The Way Christian Academy focuses on faith-based education with high academic standards. It offers small class sizes and individualized learning plans to meet each student’s unique needs.

Finding the right high school is an important decision that impacts your child’s future. Whether you’re looking for strong academics, spiritual development, extracurricular opportunities, or a values-based education, Opelika has a range of amazing schools to consider. Taking the time to visit campuses, meet with faculty, and understand each school’s mission can help you choose the right fit for your family. Your child’s journey to success starts with a great education — and Opelika is a wonderful place to begin that journey.

Opelika, Alabama is a charming small city known for its Southern hospitality, historic downtown, and strong sense of community. While Opelika doesn’t host any major professional sports franchises within the city itself, its location in eastern Alabama offers residents and sports fans access to a vibrant sports culture nearby. Much of the region’s sports pride centers around college athletics, especially Auburn University, which is just a short drive away. However, fans of professional sports in Opelika still have plenty of nearby options to root for.

College Sports – Auburn University Tigers (NCAA)

• Auburn Tigers Football – Just minutes from Opelika, Auburn University fields one of the most passionate and competitive football programs in the NCAA. The Tigers have won two national championships (1957 and 2010), with legendary players like Bo Jackson, Cam Newton, and Pat Sullivan gracing the field. Jordan-Hare Stadium, located in Auburn, offers an electric game-day atmosphere that’s second to none.
• Auburn Tigers Basketball – The men’s basketball program has been a rising force in recent years, making a Final Four appearance in 2019. Under head coach Bruce Pearl, the Tigers are regularly contenders in the SEC.
• Other Sports – Auburn Athletics also competes in baseball, softball, track and field, gymnastics, and swimming, with many teams ranked nationally and producing Olympic-caliber athletes.

Professional Football – Atlanta Falcons & New Orleans Saints (NFL)

• Atlanta Falcons – Approximately 90 minutes east of Opelika, the Falcons are the nearest NFL team. They made a memorable run to Super Bowl LI in 2017. Players like Matt Ryan, Julio Jones, and Deion Sanders have made history with the team.
• New Orleans Saints – To the southwest, the Saints are also popular among Opelika residents. With a Super Bowl XLIV victory in 2010, led by Drew Brees, the Saints have built a loyal fan base across the Gulf South.

Professional Baseball – Atlanta Braves (MLB)

• Atlanta Braves – The Braves are the go-to professional baseball team for Opelika fans. Located just under a two-hour drive away, the Braves have a storied history with four World Series titles (1914, 1957, 1995, and most recently, in 2021). With stars like Ronald Acuña Jr., Freddie Freeman, and Chipper Jones over the years, the Braves continue to be a powerhouse and fan favorite in the Southeast.

Professional Basketball – Atlanta Hawks (NBA)

• Atlanta Hawks – The Hawks are another Atlanta-based team supported by many in Opelika. While they’ve yet to win an NBA Championship since moving to Atlanta, their exciting play and rising stars like Trae Young have brought energy and hope to fans across Georgia and Alabama.

Professional Soccer – Atlanta United FC (MLS)

• Atlanta United FC – Launched in 2017, Atlanta United quickly became one of the most successful and well-supported teams in Major League Soccer. They won their first MLS Cup in 2018 and play in one of the league’s most vibrant atmospheres at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The team has drawn fans from all over the Southeast, including Opelika.

Professional Hockey – Nashville Predators (NHL)

• Nashville Predators – While hockey isn’t the most dominant sport in the region, Opelika fans interested in the NHL often support the Predators, located a few hours north in Nashville, Tennessee. The team reached the Stanley Cup Final in 2017 and has built a loyal following thanks to its exciting play and electric game-day experience.

Although Opelika itself doesn’t host a professional sports team, residents are far from left out when it comes to exciting sports action. With powerhouse college athletics next door in Auburn and accessible pro teams in Atlanta, Nashville, and beyond, sports fans in Opelika enjoy the best of both worlds – small-town charm and big-time sports.

Opelika, Alabama is a charming Southern city that blends small-town hospitality with rich history and hidden gems. Whether you're a local, visitor, or someone just now hearing about it, here are ten fun facts about Opelika that might just surprise you:

1. Railroad Roots – Opelika was once one of Alabama’s most important railroad hubs in the late 1800s, serving as a key stop between Atlanta and Montgomery.
2. Unique Name – The name “Opelika” is derived from a Muskogee word meaning “large swamp”, honoring the area’s Native American heritage.
3. Craft Beer and Coffee Scene – Downtown Opelika has seen a revival with spots like Red Clay Brewing Company and local coffee roasters transforming historic buildings into trendy hangouts.
4. Main Street Magic – The historic downtown is one of the most photographed spots in East Alabama thanks to its charming facades, murals, and festivals.
5. Lights, Camera… Opelika! – Several indie films and commercials have been filmed in Opelika due to its classic Southern backdrop and welcoming community vibes.
6. The Sound Wall – This local music venue and recording studio attracts artists from across the country, making Opelika a growing music destination in the South.
7. Home of the Irish Bred Pub – Believe it or not, Opelika is home to a well-loved Irish Bred Pub that blends Southern hospitality with Irish traditions.
8. Historic Saugahatchee – The Saugahatchee Country Club has a long-standing golf tradition, featuring a course influenced by famed designer George Cobb.
9. Holiday Tradition – Opelika goes all out with its annual Christmas in a Railroad Town event that transforms the city into a magical snowy wonderland — including a faux snow slide downtown!
10. Twin City Ties – Opelika and the nearby city of Auburn are often mentioned together, but each has its own identity. While Auburn is known for the university, Opelika shines with local charm and historic pride.