Exploring the Opelika Entertainment District: A Vibrant Addition to Downtown
Since October 2012, most of Historic Downtown Opelika has been designated as an Entertainment District. The designation is all about bringing more fun, food, and foot traffic to our city. Here’s everything you might want to know about it.
Why the Entertainment District is a Big Deal
Back in 2012, Alabama passed a law letting cities like ours create special entertainment zones. Since Opelika has both a Main Street program and a downtown redevelopment group, city leaders jumped at the chance to boost our local economy and create a more vibrant downtown. The goal was (and is!) bring in more businesses and make downtown a livelier place to be.
Where You’ll Find the Fun
The Entertainment District covers around 79 acres of downtown. It starts at First Avenue and North Sixth Street and stretches across several blocks and landmarks. Check out this map for the exact layout:
Note: Map created from the textual description in the municipal code (Sec. 26-252. – District designation). We do not guarantee accuracy and you should check for yourself before venturing out in the district to ensure compliance.
What You Can Do in the District
The district has some rules to keep things safe and enjoyable for everyone:
- Local Business Love: Businesses with a valid liquor license can sell alcoholic beverages that you can take with you as you wander around the district. Just make sure to follow the rules for containers—no glass allowed!
- Sip and Stroll: You can carry your drink with you in the district, as long as it’s in a shatter-proof container. Feel free to enjoy your beverage as you explore, but remember you can’t bring in drinks from outside the district and you can’t bring a drink from one establishment into another so you’ll have to finish your cocktail from John Emerald Distilling Company before you pop into Whistle Stop Bottle and Brew for a fresh pint.
- Basic Laws Still Apply: Businesses cannot sell to minors (duh) nor sell during off hours (Monday – Saturday: No alcohol sales from 2am – 6am | Sunday: No alcohol sales from 2am – 10am). And of course this only applies to pedestrians; you cannot consume alcoholic beverages in vehicles.
Come Join the Fun!
The Opelika Entertainment District is here to make downtown the place to be. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, this district promises a unique and lively experience. So grab your friends, enjoy some local flavors, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Downtown Opelika Hotel
The best way to experience Historic Downtown Opelika and to enjoy the Opelika Entertainment District is to stay at a hotel within walking distance of Downtown Opelika. Heritage House is located at the corner of 2nd Avenue and North 8th Street. We are the unofficial gateway between the Northside and Downtown Historic Districts. From here you can walk to all that Downtown Opelika has to offer. Book your stay today!
