Looking to beat the summer heat or just get out of town for a day? Luckily, Auburn is perfectly situated for easy access to lakes, trails, cities, and attractions within just a couple of hours' drive. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a couple’s escape, or an adventure with friends, here are some of the best day trips from Auburn - plus a few newer spots you may not have explored yet!

1. Lake Martin (about 45 minutes)

A true local favorite. Lake Martin offers 44,000 acres of clear blue water and 750 miles of shoreline. Spend the day boating, tubing, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the boat with friends. Popular hangouts include Chimney Rock and the Kowaliga area, which has lakeside dining and marinas. The lake is also great for fishing - bass, crappie, and catfish are abundant. For land-based fun, check out Wind Creek State Park, which offers hiking trails and scenic picnic spots.

Best For: Relaxing on the water, boating days, families, and summer weekends

Insider Tip: Head out early or go during the week if you can. Popular spots like Chimney Rock get crowded quickly on weekends, especially in the summer.

2. Callaway Gardens (about 1.5 hours)

This family-friendly resort in Pine Mountain, GA, is ideal for nature lovers. Explore the stunning gardens, take in the colorful Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, and spend time on Robin Lake Beach - one of the largest man-made white sand beaches in the world. The Treetop Adventure Course is a hit with kids and adults alike. Callaway also hosts summer events like hot air balloon festivals and concerts.  See more info HERE.

Best For: Couples, families, and anyone looking for a slower-paced outdoor day

Insider Tip: Check the seasonal events before you go. Spring blooms and the Fantasy in Lights around the holidays are worth planning around.

3. Montgomery, AL (about 1 hour)

Montgomery is rich with history and culture. Walk the Civil Rights Trail, visit the Legacy Museum and National Memorial for Peace and Justice, or tour the Alabama State Capitol. Families can check out the Montgomery Zoo & Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Downtown Montgomery is also home to great local restaurants, art galleries, and riverfront entertainment - including minor league baseball with the Montgomery Biscuits.  And the new Montgomery Whitewater Park has some great adrenaline fun, plus tons of laid-back activities to enjoy!

Best For: History, museums, and a more laid-back, educational trip

Insider Tip: Plan your stops ahead of time. Several of the key historical sites are close together, so you can see a lot without driving all over the city.

4. Columbus, GA (about 45 minutes)

Columbus has evolved into a vibrant destination along the Chattahoochee River. The city offers whitewater rafting - one of the longest urban whitewater courses in the world — as well as zip-lining across the river! The Columbus RiverWalk is perfect for a scenic stroll or bike ride. Check out local breweries, restaurants, and the newly revived Uptown Columbus area for shopping and dining.  And the The National Infantry Museum is a fantastic facility that has tons more than I was expecting - worth the visit.  

Best For: A more active day trip, outdoor adventures, and trying something different

Insider Tip: The RiverWalk is a great starting point, especially in the evening when it cools off and restaurants nearby are more lively.

5. Pine Mountain, GA & Wild Animal Safari (about 1.5 hours)

For a unique adventure, visit the Wild Animal Safari in Pine Mountain, where you can drive through a 3.5-mile safari park filled with giraffes, zebras, bison, and more. You can rent a vehicle or take your own (be prepared for slobbery windows!). Pair it with a visit to Pine Mountain’s charming downtown for lunch or antique shopping.

Best For: Hiking, nature, and getting outdoors without a long drive

Insider Tip: Bring water and wear good shoes, some of the trails have elevation changes that can sneak up on you.

6. Atlanta, GA (about 1.5–2 hours)

Atlanta makes a perfect big-city day trip. In addition to staples like the Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta Botanical Garden, and Ponce City Market, here are a few newer or trendier spots worth checking out:

• Pullman Yards: A converted industrial space now hosting art exhibits, food stalls, live music, mini-golf, and unique pop-up events.

• The Works on Chattahoochee: A buzzy new mixed-use development with hip restaurants, breweries, and entertainment.

• Westside Provisions District: High-end boutiques, stylish cafés, and creative local eats — ideal for couples or a girls’ day out.

Of course, you can always catch an Atlanta Braves game or take in a concert at State Farm Arena or Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Best For: Big-city experiences, shopping, dining, and major attractions

Insider Tip: Try to time your trip outside of peak traffic hours. Leaving Auburn early in the morning can make a big difference in how long the drive takes.

Final Thoughts

One of the biggest perks of living in Auburn is how centrally located it is, with easy access to lakes, mountains, beaches, and major cities all within a few hours’ drive. You don’t have to travel far to find summer fun when you live in Auburn! Whether you’re up for a lake day, a nature walk, a history tour, or a trendy city outing, there’s something within easy reach for everyone.

Pro tip: Make a summer bucket list and try to check off 3–4 of these spots before the new school year starts.