Auburn Game Day Guide —
Everything You Need to Know
There's nothing quite like a Saturday in Auburn, Alabama. From the roar inside Jordan-Hare Stadium to rolling Toomer's Corner after a win — here's how to do game day right.
Auburn game days are more than football — they're a community-wide celebration. Whether you're a lifelong Tigers fan or experiencing SEC football for the first time, this guide covers everything from stadium basics to the best pre-game food spots. Having lived in Auburn since 2005, I've picked up a few tricks along the way.
Jordan-Hare Stadium essentials.
Arrive Early
Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff. Parking fills fast — plan to arrive 2–3 hours early for popular games. Tailgating is a serious tradition here, and the best spots along campus fill up early.
Know Your Route
Main entrance is off South Donahue Drive. From I-85, take Exit 51 and follow signs to campus. On game days, several streets become one-way — follow the traffic police and you’ll be fine.
Tailgating Zones
The biggest tailgates happen along Wire Road, Samford Avenue, and the areas surrounding Jordan-Hare Stadium. The Alumni Center and the park areas near campus are popular spots for tailgating welcoming to all ages.
Ticket Tips
Single-game tickets can be found through Auburn University Athletics, StubHub, or SeatGeek. Season tickets are the best bet for die-hard fans. For sold-out games, check secondary markets early — prices drop closer to game time for less popular matchups.
Stadium Quick Facts
Jordan-Hare Stadium holds 87,451 fans, making it the 10th-largest stadium in the NCAA. Located at 355 Samford Avenue, Auburn, AL 36849. The stadium is named after Ralph "Shug" Jordan and Clifford Hare, two pillars of Auburn athletics history.
Rolling Toomer's Corner.
Toomer's Corner is the intersection of College Street and Magnolia Avenue — the symbolic heart of Auburn. The two historic oak trees at the corner have been the site of one of college football's most beloved traditions for decades. After an Auburn victory, fans converge on the corner and roll the trees with toilet paper.
The tradition reportedly dates back to the 1960s, though some historians trace it even further. The original oaks were poisoned in 2010 and removed, but replacement trees were planted and have grown to carry on the tradition. It doesn't matter if it's a regular-season win or an Iron Bowl victory — Toomer's Corner gets rolled.
Rozi's Tip
"Keep a roll of toilet paper in your car trunk during football season. You never know when you'll need it after a big win."
Auburn Scores
After every Auburn touchdown — or especially after a big win — the tradition begins.
Grab Your Supplies
Toilet paper is the weapon of choice. Locals keep rolls in their car trunks during football season. Some families bring entire bags.
Roll Toomer's Corner
Head to the intersection of College Street and Magnolia Avenue — the legendary Toomer's Corner — and throw your toilet paper into the oak trees. The more paper, the bigger the celebration.
Soak It In
After a big win, the entire corner is draped in white. It's one of the most iconic traditions in college football. The city cleans it up — the moment is what matters.
Best pre-game food spots.
Auburn's food scene is part of the game-day experience. Here are the spots locals head to before kickoff — and where you should go after the final whistle.
Mama Goldberg's Deli
Auburn's iconic deli — steamed sandwiches, nachos, and a pre-game ritual for decades of fans.
The Depot
Burgers, a full bar, and live music in a converted train depot. A downtown game-day staple.
Hey Day Market
A food hall with multiple vendors — perfect for groups where everyone wants something different before kickoff.
Toomer's Drugs
No game day is complete without a hand-dipped milkshake from this Auburn landmark. Get there early — the line gets long.
One Forty Grill
Quick-service burgers, sandwiches, and plates when you want solid food without the wait.
Roni's Mac Bar
Gourmet mac and cheese bowls — comfort food that's become a pre-game favorite.
Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux
Louisiana-inspired sports bar in Opelika's Tiger Town with big screens and bold flavors.
1856 – Culinary Residence
For a refined pre-game dinner in a restored historic building. Reservations recommended.
Where to watch if you can't make it inside.
Sold-out games happen. Here's where to catch every play when the stadium is full and you still want the atmosphere.
The Depot
Downtown Auburn
Multiple TVs, full bar, and a lively atmosphere for away games or overflow crowds.
Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux
Opelika
Big screens and a sports-bar atmosphere — ideal for watching when tickets aren't available.
The Breezeway
Downtown Opelika
A laid-back spot in Opelika with TVs and cold drinks for a more casual game-watching experience.
Local Breweries
Auburn & Opelika
Several local breweries and taprooms show games on big screens with a relaxed, community vibe.
Rozi's game day tips.
I've been attending Auburn games since 2005. After two decades of game days with my family, here are the things I wish I'd known on my first Saturday at Jordan-Hare.
Hotel tips for game weekends.
Game Day Questions
Here are the questions visitors and new residents ask most about Auburn game days. Don't see yours? Contact me — I'm always happy to help.
How much do Auburn football tickets cost?
Single-game ticket prices vary by opponent. Expect $40–$80 for non-conference games and $75–$150+ for SEC matchups through secondary markets. Season tickets range from $300–$600+ depending on seat location. Check Auburn University Athletics for official pricing.
What time should I arrive for an Auburn football game?
For a popular SEC game, arriving 2–3 hours before kickoff is ideal. This gives you time to park, enjoy the tailgate scene, and get into the stadium without rushing. Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff.
Is there public transportation to Jordan-Hare Stadium?
Auburn University operates shuttle services on game days from several off-campus parking areas. The Tiger Transit system runs extended routes. Check the Auburn University Athletics website for current shuttle schedules and parking maps.
Can I tailgate anywhere on campus?
Tailgating is allowed in designated areas around campus. The best-known spots are along Samford Avenue, near the Alumni Center, and in the lots surrounding Jordan-Hare Stadium. Open containers are generally permitted in tailgate areas on game days per university policy.
What is Toomer's Corner?
Toomer's Corner is the intersection of College Street and Magnolia Avenue in downtown Auburn — the symbolic heart of the city and home to two historic oak trees. After Auburn victories, fans celebrate by rolling the corner with toilet paper, creating one of the most iconic traditions in college football.
Where should I stay for an Auburn game weekend?
The Auburn University Hotel and Conference Center is on campus, close to the stadium and downtown. For more options, chain hotels along I-85 (Exit 51) offer easy access. In Opelika, 15 minutes east, you'll find more availability and often better rates. Book well in advance for SEC home games.
Moving to Auburn for game days?
Living in Auburn means game days are part of your lifestyle — not just a weekend trip. I can help you find a home in a neighborhood close to campus and everything this community has to offer.