A hiking trail that leads to a stunning 270-degree view of Lake Martin. The fire tower was built in the 1930s, used for decades by the Alabama Forestry Commission, and later restored to better-than-new condition. It is completely free and open to the public, as long as you're alright with some uphill walking! There is a gravel parking lot at the bottom of the hill and a gravel road leading up to the tower.

(Directions: Travel U.S. Hwy 280 to Dadeville and turn South onto AL Hwy 49. At the first blinking light turn right onto W. Lafayette St. In 1.4 mi., turn left onto Young's Ferry Road. In 3.4 mi., turn left onto Smith Mtn. Drive. In 0.2 mi. turn right onto Tower Road and follow to the parking lot for Smith Mountain area trail heads. There are brown signs for the "Historic Fire Tower" at every turn.)

The Waverly Local is a delightful "casual fine dining" restaurant that sources its produce from local growers whenever it can. It often has live music on Fridays. Check @thewaverlylocal on Instagram for upcoming performances and daily specials. Definitely worth making a reservation. Open 4:30-9pm Tues-Fri, 11am-2pm and 4:30-9pm Sat, and 10am-2pm Sun. Located at 1465 Patrick St, Waverly, AL.

Wild Flour Microbakery is a true hidden gem. Owned by a local family, it specializes in creative pastries, cakes, and breads. This place draws people from all over Alabama and has gotten some significant press in the past couple of years, rightfully so. Visit if you love freshly baked bread, quirky nonalcoholic drinks (lemon meringue cold brew is a current offering), and perfectly made pastries! Open 7am-4pm Tues-Fri, 9am-4pm Sat. Located at 1490 Patrick St, Waverly, AL.

Toomer's Corner is practically a pilgrimage site for SEC college football fans. After a win, Auburn students traditionally roll its iconic oaks in so much toilet paper that they look like they're covered in snow! Toomer's Drugs is known for their fresh-squeezed lemonade and is the perfect place to begin a leisurely stroll around Auburn's gorgeous campus and downtown area. Toomer's Drugs is open 10am-6pm Mon-Fri, 10am-7pm Sat, and 12-5pm Sun. Located at 100 N College St, Auburn, AL.

Side Track Coffee is one of Tully's all-time favorite coffee shops. Owned by Christians, Side Track is a pay-what-you-want cafe with the friendliest baristas around. They often have a creative list of offerings, but they nail the classics every time, too. Anything you order will be impeccably made. Open from 8am-4pm, Tues-Sun. Located at 817 S Railroad Ave, Opelika, AL.

Botanic is more than just a restaurant - it doubles as a plant nursery and features beautiful greenery and flowers throughout. Its Garden Shoppe sells a plethora of gifts and goods from local artists. It's a beautiful, relaxing place to hang out for a while! Open 7am-9pm Tues-Sat, 7am-5pm Sun. Located at 1702 Frederick Rd, Opelika, AL.