The Laurel offers a rooftop bar and garden with views of Samford and downtown Auburn. Enjoy a drink and an appetizer from their penthouse patio.

There is often a cover charge during evenings and weekends, but it's worth it for the views, sunshine, and removal from the busyness of College Street.

It is a moving, informative experience. EJI and Mass Design Group have accomplished something here that should be repeated across the nation. It's worth the one hour drive from Auburn to experience.

As many of you know, Matt loves disc golf. If you do, too, he recommends two courses in Opelika.

Spring Villa, which is 20-minutes from Auburn, offers two, 18-hole courses. It also offers a large archery course (a Jenn favorite).

Tumble Tree disc golf course is located at the Opelika Sportsplex and is a 15-minute drive from downtown. The Sportsplex also offers pickle ball.

For kids and kids at heart. This impressive playground is massive and inclusive. It offers a little bit of everything from rock climbing to accessible swings. If the weather is nice, we recommend checking this expansive playground out!

If you enjoy hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking, this is the place for you! Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Auburn lies the expansive Chewacla State Park. Drive to the back of the park, and you'll find this dam and waterfall. You can also hike there from the front of the park if you're looking for a little exercise and fresh air.

There is a small entrance fee (~$3/person).

Matt and Jenn go regularly :)

If the weather is nice (which it often is in early October in the South), you might check out Columbus, Georgia's whitewater rafting, kayaking, and zip lining. Prices range from $50-$80, and it's a brief 45-minute drive from Auburn.

If you enjoy a nice round of golf, this is the place for you! RTJ is 30-minutes from downtown Auburn.

Jenn likes the driving range (as it's peaceful AND cheaper).

Jenn unabashedly loves Callaway Gardens. There are bike trails, a butterfly conservatory, a horticultural center, a water ski competition lake, raptor center, golf course, and spa. There's a little bit of everything for everyone, and Jenn appreciates how nature and science come alive through recreation. If you agree, just commit a one hour drive and $25 for your admissions ticket.

The Laurel Spa offers a luxurious, full-service spa for those looking to relax and indulge. Though one spa service comes with a higher price tag, it includes access to the rooftop pool, salt room, and eucalyptus steam room.

If competitive pinball is your thing, welcome to Rock N' Roll Pinball. Have a beer and enjoy a few classics. Rock N'Roll Pinball is in Opelika, the twin city to Auburn and a 20-minute drive from downtown.

The Jule is Auburn's fine art museum. From discussions on culture to a curated sculpture garden, the museum is seasonally changing its art installations.

This is one of Jenn's favorites.

Well Red is a Jenn favorite for coffee, books, and working remotely. She recommends the front patio or back porch as the interior gets full quickly.

Auburn's Hey Day Market is a food hall offering options including gelato, crêpes, burgers, tacos, smoothies, Hawaiian dishes, and more. Outside, enjoy games on the lawn or quality coffee and espresso next door in The Laurel's ground-floor coffee shop.

Botanic is one of the most interesting things to happen in Auburn/Opelika -Jenn. More than fine dining, this place is an oasis. Grab a coffee or beer and sit in the garden they have constructed. In the mornings when the crowds are gone, it's so intimate and relaxing.