The Laurel Hotel and Spa

Auburn University may be better known for football than formal hospitality, but with the polished Laurel Hotel & Spa, that may soon change. A centerpiece of the Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center on Auburn University’s campus, The Laurel joins a culinary lab, wine appreciation classes, a microbrewery and other entities under one roof to create elevated education programs and experiences for the next generation of hospitality stars. Through a unique partnership with the Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management, the Alabama hotel offers students first-hand experience at the front desk, back of house and everywhere in between — all without the guest ever noticing. Things start off impressively at check-in from the hardwood-floored and neutral-toned Library. The scene inside the 26 spacious accommodations, which range from 421-square-foot King rooms to 766-square-foot suites, is equally appealing. The full-service spa is another standout amenity. Still, the most memorable aspect of the hotel may be a culinary program that pairs aspiring cooks with veteran chefs who take up residency at the signature restaurant, thus ensuring that every meal students, visiting loved ones or those in town for the big game have is unforgettable.