Auburn was once called ‘the loveliest village on the plains’ in a poem by Oliver Goldsmith. It is the largest city in eastern Alabama, with a population of over 120,000 people. Despite its short 170-year history, it is now the fastest growing city in the state.
Auburn is a college town and is home to the well respected educational institute of Auburn University. The city has a rich arts and cultural scene with a number of community theaters, dance schools and various museums housing works from both nationally and internationally renowned artists.
Natural offerings are plentiful in Auburn and the surrounding areas, where parklands, forests and lakes abound. Auburn university contributes greatly to sporting activities in the city and has produced more Olympic swimmers than any other educational institute in the country. There are six golf courses hosting both professional and amateur tournaments through out the year.
Highlights
Auburn University: this is one of the city’s major landmarks. Many of the university’s main buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offer visitors a look at some of Auburn’s finest architecture.
Forest Ecology Reserve: with acres of forest trails, this reserve is the perfect retreat for bird-spotting and wildlife observation. Additionally, it is highlighted by a butterfly farm and reptile trails that are especially pleasing to children.
Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art: an outstanding institute housing collections such as the Advancing American Art Collection with works from well respected American artists like Jacob Lawrence and Georgia O’Keefe, this museum also features works by Dali, Renoir and Matisse.
Surfside Water Park: this theme park offers a great opportunity for a fun-filled family outing, featuring a massive wave pool, speed slides, a lazy river and volleyball courts.
Uptown Auburn: this is the nightlife, dining and shopping hub of the city and a great place to kick back with the locals and have a beer. Dining in Auburn is primarily focused on American fare.