ABOUT
The Whistle Stop Story
Our Story
Whistle Stop began in 2019 with two simple goals set by owners Scott and Julie Brown: to open a homebrew and winemaking supply shop and add on a craft beer taproom. After finding the perfect location in downtown Opelika in late 2018, they got to work on the “homebrew” side of the business. By June 1, 2019, Whistle Stop officially opened its doors. Over the rest of the year, Scott and Julie focused on refining the homebrew shop and planning the integration of the taproom.
In early 2020, they began building out the taproom. Then came the COVID-19 pandemic in March, which left them with two choices: pause everything or press on. Despite delays, the taproom officially opened in mid-August, right in the heart of the pandemic. They prioritized safety by following all protocols and intentionally easing into operations, creating a welcoming and safe space for the community to enjoy.
Now, in 2025, Whistle Stop has evolved into something truly special. With a cozy, coffee-shop feel and a passion for craft beer, Whistle Stop is downtown Opelika's only craft beer sports pub. It features over 26 taps of craft beer, cider, wine, wine cocktails, and mead, along with non-alcoholic options like kombucha, tea, soda, and water.
Scott and Julie invite you to come see what all the buzz is about and experience Whistle Stop for yourself!
Meet The Team
Scott Brown
Scott is a retired Coast Guard officer with 28 years of service. After his retirement in 2011, he began a federal contracting career that he continued until 2025. He and Julie moved to Auburn in 2017 and opened Whistle Stop in 2019. Scott mostly works behind the scenes and stays out of the way as much as he can. If you ask him, he’ll tell you that he tries to stay out of the way, but he makes sure the plumbing, electrical, and TVs are working.
Favorite Beer: The one in my hand
What I love about WS: The connection WS has with the local community and our customers
Julie Asher-Brown
Julie is affectionately known throughout the shop as the “CEO” and the one who really runs the show. She is responsible for creating the warm and inviting atmosphere that is at the core of what Whistle Stop is. She personally creates every beer sign (well over 350 signs so far!) and is always rearranging the decor at the shop for each season. Julie knows that it’s the small details that truly make Whistle Stop a unique experience.
Favorite Beer: Diet Coke (I don't drink beer!)
What I love about WS: Meeting new people and hearing their stories
Aryn Simpson
Aryn is Whistle Stop's General and Bar Operations Manager. She started working at Whistle Stop in 2022 and is a crowd favorite! She is passionate about customer service and makes it a point to remember every customer’s name, story, and favorite beverage.
Favorite Beer: Sean Minor Chardonnay (let's be real!)
What I love about WS: Ringing the "last call" bell as loud as I can
Olivia Bond
Olivia is Whistle Stop's General and Social Media Manager. She started working at Whistle Stop in 2021 and has been a star employee ever since. Over the years, Olivia has developed a passion for the craft beer industry and orders all of the craft beers you enjoy!
Favorite Beer: Back Forty Truckstop Honey
What I love about WS: All the dogs I meet
Wyatt
Favorite beer: Any Belgian Tripel
What I love about WS: Chatting with the customers
Doug
Favorite beer: St. Bernardus Abt 12
What I love about WS: Working with the staff and helping customers experience new beers
Shannon
Favorite beer: I prefer mead and love B Nectar's Kill all the Golphers
What I love about WS: The relationships formed with coworkers and customers
Lauren
Favorite beer: Kona Big Wave
What I love about WS: That it made me a better listener, making new friends, and petting the dogs
Antonio
Favorite beer: Aslin Volcano Sauce
What I love about WS: Meeting people from all over the US and making them feel at home in Opelika
Morgan
Favorite beer: Any Ciderboys Cider
What I love about WS: Working with the staff and serving wonderful customers