Each year, we like to take some time to talk about gratitude. After all, we have a lot to appreciate! As Thanksgiving inches closer, let’s explore some of the many reasons to be thankful for life in East Alabama.
Auburn University
Exciting athletics, amazing educations, and all those tourism dollars—Auburn University has taken good care of our town. We’ll shout “War Eagle!” any day.
The Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center
The Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center, or the GPAC, has brought all kinds of cool performers to the area. Ziggy Marley, The Beach Boys, Patti LaBelle, and more have all taken the stage there. Plus, the GPAC did its part to keep us all safe and healthy by offering virtual shows too!
Quality schools
Locals love the quality schools in the East Alabama area. What they don’t know, though, is that Auburn City is the sixth-best school district in Alabama. Opelika, meanwhile, is number 23. So, Auburn University isn’t the only big name in the game!
Thriving downtown areas
East Alabama features not one but two thriving Downtown areas in Lee County alone: Downtown Auburn and Downtown Opelika! Whether you want to grab a brew at Resting Pulse in Downtown Opelika or you want enjoy a classic lemonade at Toomer’s Drugs, you have options. Not to mention, you can enjoy top-tier meals at delicious eateries like Zazu or Hamilton’s! And we can’t forget all the shopping opportunities too.
Year-round events
You’ll always fund something fun to do in East Alabama. In fact, we have a regular monthly blog devoted to the topic—and we can barely scratch the surface of all the options. Whether you adore farmers markets, prefer to run off holiday treats in 5K races, or want to ring in the season with a parade, you’ll never be bored.
Lake Martin
Living there full time? Visiting your lake home for the weekend? Going on vacation? One of the reasons to be thankful for life in East Alabama is it’s home to the stunning Lake Martin, complete with 880 miles of shoreline. While you’re there, you can also climb Smith Mountain or camp at Wind Creek State Park. And, starting in 2023, you can play golf at Willow Point Golf Course!
Proximity
Hello, ATL! East Alabama is just a drive away from the big city—and Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. We’re also one hour from Montgomery, two hours from Birmingham, and three hours from the Gulf Coast.
Opportunity Zones
Alabama invests in its communities—and its people. We all benefit from local Opportunity Zones, like the Opelika business park near the Auburn Airport, Alta Vista, and even Auburn University itself. These spots bring business, money, and jobs to the area for years to come. Learn more about the ones nearby.
Giving back
Those living in East Alabama truly care about their community. They do their best to uplift others. From local events like the Annual Beat Bama Food Drive to philanthropic organizations like the Food Bank of East Alabama and the Lee County Humane Society, people here give back.
Booming real estate
What do Auburn, Opelika, and Lake Martin all have in common? Booming real estate prices! Even during the pandemic, East Alabama homes have flown off the market—and at astonishing prices too. So, living here is a great investment!
Summary
We could talk all day long about the reasons to be thankful for life in East Alabama. After all, we live in a lovely community filled with wonderful people, cool local businesses, and sensational sights. Now that’s another reason to toast!
If the part about real estate caught your eye, you’ve come to the right place! Ryan Roberts has extensive experience buying and selling in the East Alabama area. Contact him to begin your journey! Plus, for more on local living, browse our blog here.
