Best attractions and places to see around Auburn include diverse natural landscapes and significant cultural sites. The region features extensive outdoor recreation opportunities, with a focus on parks, lakes, and trails. Visitors can explore areas offering hiking, biking, and water activities within a vibrant college-town setting.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Highlight • Lake
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Highlight • Waterfall
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A fairly recent addition I think. The wood was just forming a layer of slippery green algae on the shady side. I’m not sure which side the builders imagined you’d approach from, but both present some issues. If you fall from the top on the downhill side your in trouble. At least 10‘ down. I’d avoid it if riding alone. Approaching from downhill offers a longer, less steep ramp but then there is the algae to loose traction, momentum, balance…Pro tip, dial 911.
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Just a short walk (45‘) from the trail is this sweet waterfall with a nice spot for a cool dip. It was February when I found it so not swim weather but this summer for sure! The creek continues on and joins with the larger stream just below. Lots of large flat rocks and shallow water to dip your feet in and cool off
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You have to pay $4 to get into the public park. All of the riding I did was on the West side of the lake. Komoot had a hard time keeping up with where I was exactly due to the fact that it seems the trail path has changed occasionally. But it was my first time here so 🤷🏿♂️. I rode the first week of Feb in 2025 and almost all of the trail was completely covered with a blanket of pine needles so lateral grip was infrequent. The trails had few markings but once in a while I would come across a spaghetti map posted though they did not always say exactly where I was. I gave up trying to figure it out and just had fun. I saw around 8 deer on my ride. The bridges I encountered were all great but the wooden advanced features seemed sketchy. Slippery algae, missing boards (sometimes 2 in a row so a big hole). I’d scout on foot before riding them for sure.
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Chewacla Lake is a freshwater lake within the State Park of the same name in Alabama. It is surrounded by lush greenery and provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking and biking.
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Chewacla State Park has a 26-acre lake, a picnic area and many options for hiking and biking. There are covered rest areas, so it is a great place for a break to escape the heat.
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Auburn offers a variety of outdoor activities, particularly at Chewacla State Park. Here you can find a 26-acre lake for swimming, fishing, and canoeing, along with numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking. Other options include exploring the trails at Tuskegee National Forest, Kiesel Park, and the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center.
Yes, Chewacla State Park is a prime location for both hiking and mountain biking, offering a variety of trails. The park also features covered rest areas, making it a great spot for a break. For more specific routes, you can explore options like the MTB Trails around Auburn or Running Trails around Auburn.
You can find a refreshing natural swimming spot at the Secret swimming hole and waterfall, which is accessible by a short walk from a trail. It features large flat rocks and shallow water, perfect for a cool dip. Additionally, Chewacla Lake within Chewacla State Park also offers opportunities for swimming.
Auburn is rich in history, particularly around Auburn University. You can explore the Auburn University Historic District, which includes iconic buildings like Samford Hall, University Chapel, and Langdon Hall, showcasing Revivalist architectural styles from the 1850s. A short drive away, the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site offers a fascinating look into World War II history.
The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art is a significant cultural attraction in Auburn, housing an impressive collection of over 2,000 traditional and contemporary art pieces. It's considered one of Alabama's premier art museums.
Auburn University's campus is central to the town's identity. Beyond its historic buildings, iconic spots include Toomer's Corner, famous for its 'rolling the trees' tradition after Auburn Tigers victories, and Jordan-Hare Stadium, home to the football team. Neville Arena is another key athletic venue hosting various events.
Absolutely. Chewacla State Park is very family-friendly, offering a lake for swimming, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Kiesel Park, Auburn's largest public park, features walking trails, open fields, and hosts community events. The Kreher Preserve and Nature Center also provides walking trails and a butterfly garden, great for families.
Kiesel Park is an excellent choice for dog owners, as it features walking trails, open fields, and a large dedicated dog enclosure. Many of the trails within Chewacla State Park and the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center are also suitable for walks with leashed dogs.
Auburn offers attractions year-round. The vibrant college-town atmosphere is particularly lively during football season in the fall. For outdoor activities like hiking and exploring parks, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures. While a tip mentions the Secret swimming hole and waterfall is best for swimming in the summer, the natural beauty of the area can be enjoyed in any season.
There are various cycling routes around Auburn catering to different skill levels. You can find options ranging from moderate loops around Chewacla Lake to more challenging rides like the Opelika to Chattahoochee River loop. For a comprehensive overview, check out the Cycling around Auburn guide.
Beyond the well-known parks, Auburn boasts unique natural features like the Secret swimming hole and waterfall, offering a secluded spot for relaxation. The Donald E. Davis Arboretum is another unique outdoor learning center dedicated to preserving native plant species, providing tranquil walking trails.


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