The Ultimate Auburn Graduation Weekend Guide (Where to Stay, Eat & Celebrate)

Graduation weekend in Auburn always falls at the very beginning of May, which, if you know the South, is about as perfect as it gets. The flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and for once … you’re not sweating through your dress before 10am. It’s also a weekend full of proud parents, teary hugs on Samford Lawn, and that feeling that something really special just happened. The moment where the famous phrase from the Auburn creed rings true: “I believe in work, hard work.” Because you Auburn grads have worked your hineys off for that scroll of paper (and you Auburn parents have worked YOUR hineys off to get your kiddos through school). Cocktails are in order for all.

PSA: If you’re wondering if you can bring fat heads into the commencement ceremony, the answer is no. Find more information about Auburn’s graduation ceremonies HERE.

And if you’re here? You’re in FULL celebration mode. AND, congratulations to your grad 🤍

Here’s exactly how I’d plan the weekend.

🏨 Where to Stay

If you’re reading this and haven’t booked yet … pause and do that first. Graduation weekend fills up fast.

Walkable to Downtown + Campus

The Hotel at Auburn University – classic, convenient, and right by campus
Graduate Auburn – fun, colorful, and in the heart of downtown
The Collegiate Hotel at Auburn – boutique feel with a great rooftop scene
AC Hotel by Marriott Auburn – modern, clean, easy stay

A Little More Space

Our Airbnb is an easy drive to campus (perfect if you want a little breathing room after a busy day) & around the corner from some GREAT eats & shopping. BOOK HERE.

Just Outside of Auburn

Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National – beautiful property + resort-style pool + shuttle access + a stop on the Robert Trent Jones golf trail!!
Element Opelika – brand new with suite-style rooms (great for families)

📸 Best Places for Graduation Photos

You’ll want to carve out time for this, because it’s half the experience.

Samford Lawn (iconic for a reason). Pop a bottle of champagne and snap photos in the spray!!
Langdon Hall (only grads get to step on the seal!)
Toomer’s Corner
Cater Hall
Jordan Hare Stadium
The War Eagle Wall (side of J&M)
The Laurel Hotel Rooftop (sweeping views of campus!)
Anywhere with blooms—campus in May is showing off

Walts on the Roof || Laurel Hotel Rooftop

🥂 Where to Celebrate (aka: Cocktails)

Because you didn’t just survive college … you earned this.

Downtown Auburn

War Eagle Supper Club – rooftop patio + celebratory energy
The Laurel Hotel and Spa Rooftop – craft cocktails with a stunning view of campus (photo op!)
Olivine - luxe cocktails on the rooftop of the AC Marriott
Hamilton's on Magnolia – champagne cocktails & martinis (I love their lemon drop!)
New Realm Brewing Co. Auburn – brews at Hey Day + great outdoor space
The Hound – bourbon toast feels right
The Plains Taproom & Grill — pour your own beer + play games!
Moe's Original BBQ Auburn – home of the famous Bushwacker (my very first cocktail in Auburn!!)