Best Cocktail Spots in Auburn-Opelika

Updated summer 2023.

Auburn-Opelika has a number of great cocktail spots for the enthusiastic cocktailier. Secret garden vibes with a patio bar? Check. Rooftop views with elegant cocktails? Check. Breezy, 30a-inspired wine bar? Check. Chill brewery vibes with a huge outdoor patio? Check. Whatever style suits your fancy, we’ve got it.

I love having a variety of options to choose from, and Auburn-Opelika offers cocktail spots for every type of mood + season + time of day. I’ve created a list of my favorites, taking into account the overall vibe and quality of cocktails. My recommended drinks are also included!

best cocktail spots in auburn-opelika

The Laurel Hotel Rooftop Bar. Auburn’s newest hotel shares a building (well, everything really) with the new culinary science center. Everything about the hotel is luxe, including the rooftop. And because the hotel’s location is literally across the street from iconic Samford, it has the best view in town. The hotel partners with Auburn’s horticulture department to cultivate a working garden on the roof (the rosemary simple syrup in your cocktail was grown on the roof - pinkies up).

Botanic. Imagine the secret garden also had an upscale restaurant and access to multiple bars. ENTER: BOTANIC. A new local hot-spot that feels like an oasis in the middle of Opelika. Their patio bar often features seasonal cocktails for a beautiful evening spent under the stars OR you could head to their bourbon bar and enjoy views of the pond whilst sitting in a giant leather chair. Either option is a win.

The Collegiate Rooftop Bar (The Bar at Wittle). This is where George and I got engaged, so it will always have a special place in my heart. Plus, it’s really hard to beat the rooftop views. DRINK: The Aub-bee Margartia (it’s purple!).

Hamilton’s on Magnolia. Cozy, old-school vibe with live jazz on Sunday and Monday nights. We usually snag a table on Monday evenings for half-price martinis! DRINK: Champagne cocktail.

The Depot. The Depot (literally a remodeled train depot) is a great seafood restaurant in Auburn, but also has a very interesting bar and cocktail list. All of the bartenders wear suspenders and they have bottles of liquor stacked from floor to ceiling (reachable only by climbing a mahogany ladder). DRINK: Perfected Gin & Tonic (their menu often changes with the season - whatever suits your fancy).

Lucy’s. The Lucy’s bartenders set the bar HIGH. They often switch out their cocktail menu to try out new and seasonal flavors, always served in a fun glass with a garnish flourish. Lucy’s cocktails are up-scale and always delicious. DRINK: Hugo Crete (but order anything - it’s all delicious).

John-Emerald Distillery. An Opelika staple, JE has been crafting their own spirits for years. They have a great outdoor area with string lights (MOOD) and often change up their cocktail recipes to accommodate a seasonal menu. A true local cocktail experience. DRINK: Anything with their Elizabeth Vodka.

Cerulean. Located in Midtown, Cerulean offers a uniquely curated wine menu as well as a breezy vibe. Midtown was modeled after the south’s beloved 30a, so you can order a glass and pretend like you’re somewhere close to the ocean. Split a bottle of wine amongst friends and enjoy the sips.

Mellow Mushroom (SURPRISE!). I added Mellow to my list because their new cocktails are BOMB. And this list needed a casual option. You can snag something delicious, enjoy their outdoor sitting area, and watch the sights and sounds of Auburn, Alabama pass you by. DRINK: The Peach Buzz.

Resting Pulse Brewery. Everybody loves a good patio, competitive game of corn hole and cold beer. Resting Pulse has all three. This is a space where you can sit and stay a while. DRINK: Opa Liken Lime.

For more Auburn-Opelika faves, check out my full travel guide. Cheers!