Welcome back to Tailgate Takeover! This week Auburn plays their SEC opener at The Plains against the Florida Gators, and it’s a night game. Kicking off at 7:00 pm ET–6:00 pm local Auburn time–and televised nationally on ESPN.
Both teams enter the game undefeated through their first two contests, and are looking for an early season statement win. With an evening kickoff, Tiger fans have time for a full day of activities before the lights come on over Jordan-Hare.
Getting Oriented
Unlike most of the games we’re covering in this series, this game is on home turf. Downtown Auburn and Jordan-Hare Stadium are close enough to each other that fans can explore and revel in Downtown all day until its time to walk over to the stadium for kickoff, no rideshare or transportation required.
Toomer’s Corner sits at the intersection between College Street and Magnolia Avenue, and it’s the heart and soul of it all–the spot where celebrations “roll” out after the games, and a great landmark for orienting yourself before.
Most everything you could want for the weekend is within a few blocks of Toomer’s, making Auburn one of the most user friendly gameday towns to navigate.
Where to Eat
(Acre/Facebook)
Downtown Auburn food scene has grown into something that can really hold its own in recent years. The first one mentioned has to be Chef David Bancroft’s Acre. From a gourmet burger, to duck breast and risotto, to peanut butter pie, Acre doesn’t miss.
Botanic is a newer favorite just down the road in Opelika that you could build an entire evening around. It’s an impressive building that blends horticulture with farm-to-table dining with specialty bars. Think elevated dining mixed with a miniature botanical gardens.
Our last recommendation to eat this week is a more casual option, but a spot that no guide to Auburn would be complete without: Momma Goldberg’s Deli. Known colloquially as “Momma Gs” since 1976, they’re famous for steamed sandwiches and nachos. If you’re looking for something quick and reliably good, look no further.
Where to Drink
For rooftop views and Gameday energy, Skybar is the obvious choice—it’s downtown’s go-to for catching a pregame buzz above the crowd. Olivine is another strong rooftop option, offering a more polished setting to soak in the atmosphere with a cocktail in hand.
If you’re looking for something a little quieter, Avondale Bar & Tap room is worth a visit. It’s built a reputation as one of the few downtown spots that doesn’t feel overrun with students. Featuring upscale cocktails, Alabama craft beers, and a view of Toomer’s Corner, it’s a great option for fans that want to catch up over a drink, without having to yell over the crowd noise.
Things to Do
(Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers/Facebook)
For a peaceful break from the Gameday pandemonium, the Donald E. Davis Arboretum—right on campus—offers a peaceful walk through native plant collections that is a delightful way to kill an hour before kickoff.
Toomer’s Drugs has been a downtown Auburn fixture since 1896. They offer world famous fresh squeezed lemonade, old fashioned sodas, and a variety of snacks.
Downtown Auburn’s shops along College Street and near Toomer’s Corner are all well stocked for Gameday with team gear and local gifts, so be sure to browse on your walk between meals and drinks. Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers is a great stop for book lovers, and there are plenty of great boutiques—like Behind the Glass—if you need to put together a gameday outfit. For fan gear, J&M is the spot.
And of course, after every Auburn win, be sure to stop by Toomer’s Corner and join the rolling of the trees tradition.
Where to Stay
With a night kickoff, you’ll want a home base for the day. The Graduate Auburn is right in the mix downtown, with a playful, Auburn-themed design and easy walking access to everything on this list. For something more upscale, The Laurel Hotel & Spa offers a full-service stay with a rooftop pool and spa—a great way to relax before a long gameday. And if you want to make a weekend of it, Auburn Glamping puts you in style just outside town, trading a hotel room for a more elevated outdoor experience.
(The Graduate Hotel/Facebook)
Know Before You Go
Nighttime kickoffs equal a long day on the town, so pace yourself accordingly. Downtown parking fills up fast, so if you don’t have a spot, consider purchasing a parking pass or arriving very early and staying parked for the day.
Keep the weather in mind when planning your attire, September afternoons in Alabama are typically pretty hot, even though it may cool down after nightfall. And as always, don’t forget to lather up with your favorite SPF for UV ray protection.
The Auburn Tigers are looking to make a statement under their first-year head coach, so enjoy the game, it should be a fun one!
