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7 spots to check out in historic downtown Opelika
Since the establishment of Opelika as a town in 1854, the area quickly became a regional hub for transportation and commerce, now including all kinds of restaurants, breweries and antique shops. To find out what kind of places are populating the historic downtown area today, keep reading our guide to spending a day in Opelika.
1. Sidetrack Coffee
This coffee shop downtown is the best place to start your morning. You can opt for a classic latte or americano, or try out something new like their “Good Personality”, a refreshing iced coffee drink made with cold brew, chile de arbol, tamarind, pineapple Jarritos and lime.
Not sure what you want? Even better! Just tell the barista what you’re feeling and they’ll whip up something delicious. For great drinks and great atmosphere, make sure to stop by Sidetrack.
- Location: 817 S Railroad Ave, Opelika, AL 36801
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 8AM-4PM
- Website
2. Roland’s Thrift Store
Are you the type of person that loves knick-knacks, trinkets and all things miscellaneous? Roland’s Thrift Store may be your new favorite place. Whether you’re looking to buy or just look around, Roland’s Thrift Store has everything you might need from glassware to light fixtures and home decorations. With reasonable prices and a huge selection, you just might find something new.
- Location: 825 S Railroad Ave, Opelika, AL 36801
- Hours: Monday-Saturday 8:30AM-3PM
3. 10,000 Hz Records
Hands down the best record store around, 10,000 Hz carries a wide variety of both familiar classics and new arrivals to add to your rotation. Whatever genre or artist you like, 10,000 Hz will have something for you. With a diverse collection of cassettes, CDs, vinyls and more to choose from, it’s hard to walk out of this place empty-handed.
- Location: 717A 1st Ave, Opelika, AL 36801
- Hours: Wednesday-Friday 11AM-6PM, Saturday 10AM-5PM, Sunday 12-5PM, Monday 11AM-6PM
- Website
4. Irish Bred Pub
Ready for some lunch? Irish Bred Pub has you covered. Serving fish and chips, shepherd’s pie and even a Guinness BBQ bacon burger, this spot is an essential must-try for Auburn and Opelika foodies. Make sure to check out their Facebook page for info about weekly events like drag shows and live music at IBP’s corner bar!
- Location: 833 S Railroad Ave, Opelika, AL 36801
- Hours: Monday-Thursday 11AM-10PM, Friday-Saturday 11AM-12AM, Sunday 12-4PM
- Website
5. Rock ‘N Roll Pinball
This arcade located in the heart of downtown is fun for the whole family. Housing over 30 high-end and vintage pinball machines, video arcade machines and a bar, Rock ‘N Roll Pinball has it all. Play with old friends or make new friends, maybe you’ll even set the weekly high score! Make sure to check out The Jailhouse, their music and event venue right out back that features local bands and acts every Friday and Saturday night.
- Location: 815 S Railroad Ave, Opelika, AL 36801
- Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 11AM-10PM, Friday-Saturday 11AM-12AM, Sunday 12-5PM
- Website
6. Café 123
For fine dining with a Southern flair, make sure to stop by Café 123. Serving brunch and dinner, their menu features southern cuisine with a classic French influence. Offering featured dishes like saltine fried oysters and brown sugar rubbed ribeye, this place will surely have your mouth watering, and it’s a total must-try for Opelika food-lovers.
- Location: 123 S 8th St, Opelika, AL 36801
- Hours: Dinner Tuesday-Saturday 6PM-10PM, Brunch Friday-Sunday 11AM-2PM
- Website
7. Red Clay Brewing
The best way to finish off the night? Get yourself a drink at Red Clay Brewing. All born and raised in the south, Red Clay’s founders are dedicated to creating brews inspired by southern culture. One of their featured beers, the “Big Swamp Stout”, was named after Opelika whose name originated from a Muskogee word meaning “big swamp”. This brewery is a downtown hub for eats, drinks and events galore. You can even rent Red Clay’s taproom for birthdays, baby showers, weddings and more!
- Location: 704 N Railroad Ave, Opelika, AL 36801
- Hours: Monday-Thursday 4-10PM, Friday-Saturday 11AM-11:30PM
- Website
Did we miss your favorite downtown Opelika spot? Stay in touch with us on Facebook and Instagram at @TheBamaBuzz and let us know your favorites!
