Opelika City : Interesting Facts, History & Information

Opelika is a city in Lee County, Alabama. The population was 28,635 at the 2020 census. The city is the county seat of Lee County and is located east of Auburn in the east-central part of the state. It is part of the Auburn-Opelika Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Opelika was officially founded in 1854, by a group of German immigrants from the Grand Duchy of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach. The city was initially called Lea’s Crossing but was changed to honor the city of Opelika, Germany. In 1865, the city was burned during the civil war. In 1872, the city was officially incorporated.

In the early 1900s, the economy of Opelika revolved around the textile industry with companies such as West Point Pepperell and J.P. Stevens. Through the 1950s, textile mills were the major source of employment for the city. In recent years, Opelika has experienced a rapid growth in population and has developed into an important destination for technology and automotive industries.

Today, Opelika is home to a diverse population and an active cultural life. The downtown area is full of antique shops and historic buildings, and the home of the nationally renowned Jeff Mize Theatre. The city is also home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Spooktacular Halloween Festival, the Big Township Crawfish Boil and the Taste of Opelika.

Interesting Facts About Opelika City

1. Opelika was founded in 1854 by a group of men from Alabama who were involved in the cotton industry.

2. Opelika is home to a growing downtown arts community. Several galleries and shops showcase local and regional artwork and crafts.

3. The karst landscape of Opelika, AL produces a number of unique springs, sinkholes, and underground caves that attract nature lovers and photographers.

4. During the Civil War, Opelika was a Confederate stronghold and served as a depot for supply between Montgomery and Atlanta.

5. Opelika was briefly the capital of Alabama in 1861 while the capital was moved from Montgomery to Enterprise, then back to Montgomery.

6. The historic Great Star Theater dates back to 1928 and is still in use today as a theater and venue for music, lectures, and more.

7. The Chewacla State Park is located at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and offers a number of recreational activities for outdoors enthusiasts.

8. The Opelika Sportsplex is a 90-acre sports complex with a variety of sports fields, indoor courts, and a track and field loop.

9. The Annual Four Mile Creek Festival celebrates the creek and its tributaries and features fishing tournaments, canoe races, and more.

10. Every year, the city of Opelika hosts a Kite Festival during the spring where colorful kites fill the sky.

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What is Opelika known & Famous for

Opelika is best known as a thriving city in Lee County, Alabama. It is located in the East-Central part of the state and is a popular destination for visitors. Opelika is home to Auburn University, one of the top-ranked universities in the Southeast. There are numerous attractions in the area, including the Grand National golf course, multiple theaters, a botanical garden, and the downtown dining and shopping district. Opelika is also known for its historic downtown architecture and for its annual festivals, such as the Greek Festival and the CityFest artist market.

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What Is It Like To Visit In Opelika City?

Opelika, Alabama is a small, southern city located near Auburn University and Columbus in East Central Alabama. The city offers visitors a charming downtown area with quaint shops, restaurants, and galleries. It has a historic charm and offers plenty of things to do like the arts, history, sports, and events. Visitors can take tours of the town, enjoy unique shopping and dining experiences, and explore outdoor adventures. There are a variety of recreational activities, such as golf courses, camping, fishing, and hiking trails. In addition, the city is home to the Great Southern Gallery and many historical sites that are open to the public. With its warm culture, friendly locals, and a variety of attractions, Opelika is a great destination for a memorable and enjoyable visit.

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