Discover the many things to do in Aurora, a vibrant city with a rich history and a thriving arts and culture scene. From exploring historical landmarks to enjoying outdoor activities, Aurora offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Aurora has something to offer. Read on to uncover the best attractions, outdoor activities, shopping, dining, and cultural experiences that this charming city has to offer.
Popular Attractions
Aurora, Colorado, offers a wide range of popular attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. From historical landmarks and museums to entertainment venues and outdoor recreation, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city.
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To help you plan your visit, here’s a comprehensive list of the most popular attractions in Aurora, organized into categories:
Historical Sites
- Aurora History Museum:Located in the heart of downtown Aurora, this museum tells the story of the city’s past, from its humble beginnings as a farming community to its present-day status as a thriving metropolis.
- Stanley Marketplace:This historic industrial complex has been transformed into a vibrant mixed-use development, featuring a collection of independent shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
- Aurora Municipal Center:This iconic building is home to the city’s government offices and features a stunning art collection and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city.
Museums
- Aurora Fox Arts Center:This performing arts center is home to a variety of theater productions, concerts, and exhibitions.
- Children’s Museum of Denver at Aurora:This interactive museum is designed for children ages 0-8 and features exhibits on science, art, and culture.
- Aurora Public Library:This award-winning library offers a wide range of programs and services, including author readings, book clubs, and computer classes.
Entertainment Venues
- Dick’s Sporting Goods Park:This soccer stadium is home to the Colorado Rapids Major League Soccer team and hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year.
- Aurora Sports Park:This state-of-the-art sports complex features a variety of indoor and outdoor facilities, including ice rinks, basketball courts, and a fitness center.
- The Spot:This outdoor entertainment complex features a variety of live music venues, restaurants, and bars.
Outdoor Activities
Aurora offers an array of outdoor activities that cater to diverse interests and fitness levels. From scenic hiking trails to tranquil fishing spots, the city’s natural surroundings provide ample opportunities for recreation and rejuvenation.
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Hiking
Aurora boasts a network of well-maintained hiking trails that wind through picturesque parks and nature preserves. The trails range in difficulty from easy to challenging, making them suitable for hikers of all abilities.
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- Aurora Reservoir Trail:This 5-mile loop trail offers stunning views of the Aurora Reservoir and the Rocky Mountains. The trail is mostly flat, making it a good option for beginners.
- Sand Creek Trail:This 2.5-mile trail follows the banks of Sand Creek and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The trail is mostly flat, with a few gentle slopes.
- High Line Canal Trail:This 71-mile paved trail stretches from Denver to Aurora and offers a unique perspective of the city. The trail is mostly flat, making it ideal for walking, running, or biking.
Biking
Aurora’s extensive trail system also caters to cyclists of all levels. From leisurely bike paths to challenging mountain bike trails, there’s something for everyone.
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- Cherry Creek Bike Path:This 15-mile paved trail follows the banks of Cherry Creek and offers a scenic ride through the heart of Aurora. The trail is mostly flat, making it a good option for families.
- Aurora Hills Mountain Bike Park:This 100-acre park offers a variety of mountain bike trails for all skill levels. The trails range from beginner-friendly to expert-only, so there’s something for everyone.
- Southlands Bike Park:This 20-acre bike park features a pump track, jump lines, and a skills course. The park is designed for all skill levels, so it’s a great place to learn how to ride or practice your skills.
Fishing
Aurora is home to several lakes and ponds that offer excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, trout, and walleye.
- Aurora Reservoir:This 800-acre reservoir is stocked with a variety of fish, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and largemouth bass. The reservoir is open to fishing year-round.
- Quincy Reservoir:This 160-acre reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon. The reservoir is open to fishing year-round.
- Sand Creek Park Pond:This 20-acre pond is stocked with rainbow trout, bluegill, and catfish. The pond is open to fishing year-round.
Boating, Things to do in aurora
Aurora Reservoir and Quincy Reservoir offer opportunities for boating and other water sports. Visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and fishing boats from the marinas at both reservoirs.
Shopping and Dining
Aurora is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from high-end boutiques to local markets. The city also has a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants serving everything from traditional American fare to international cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or a delicious meal, you’re sure to find it in Aurora.
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Shopping
- Cherry Creek Shopping Centeris an upscale outdoor mall with over 160 stores and restaurants. Anchor stores include Nordstrom, Macy’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue.
- The Streets at SouthGlennis another popular outdoor mall with over 100 stores and restaurants. Anchor stores include JCPenney, Target, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
- Aurora Mallis a large indoor mall with over 150 stores and restaurants. Anchor stores include Sears, Macy’s, and JCPenney.
- Stanley Marketplaceis a unique indoor-outdoor market with over 50 vendors selling everything from food to clothing to home goods.
- Aurora Farmers Marketis a seasonal market that runs from May to October. The market features over 100 vendors selling fresh produce, meat, cheese, and baked goods.
Dining
Aurora has a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants serving everything from traditional American fare to international cuisine. Some of the city’s most popular restaurants include:
- The Melting Potis a fondue restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. Guests cook their own food in a fondue pot at their table.
- Ruth’s Chris Steak Houseis a steakhouse that serves USDA Prime steaks and seafood.
- Maggiano’s Little Italyis an Italian restaurant that serves classic Italian dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.
- P.F. Chang’s China Bistrois a Chinese restaurant that serves a variety of traditional and modern dishes.
- Chipotle Mexican Grillis a fast-casual Mexican restaurant that serves burritos, tacos, and bowls.
Arts and Culture
Aurora boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with a diverse array of local theaters, art galleries, and music venues. The city’s cultural offerings provide entertainment and enrichment for residents and visitors alike.
Local Theaters
Aurora is home to several renowned local theaters, including the Aurora Fox Arts Center, the Aurora Theatre Company, and the Vintage Theatre Company. These theaters stage a variety of productions, from classic plays to contemporary dramas and musicals.
Art Galleries
Aurora’s art scene is thriving, with numerous galleries showcasing the works of local, national, and international artists. The Aurora Cultural Arts District is a hub for art enthusiasts, featuring galleries such as the Aurora Arts Council Gallery, the Aurora City Center for the Arts, and the Aurora Symphony Guild Gallery.
Music Venues
Aurora’s music scene is eclectic and vibrant, with venues catering to diverse musical tastes. The Aurora Symphony Orchestra performs at the Aurora Fox Arts Center, while the Levitt Pavilion at Aurora offers free concerts featuring a wide range of genres.
The city also hosts several music festivals throughout the year, such as the Aurora Summer Arts Festival and the Aurora Fine Arts Festival.
Upcoming Events
Aurora’s arts and culture calendar is always packed with upcoming events. The Aurora Fox Arts Center hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and dance recitals. The Aurora Theatre Company presents thought-provoking plays and musicals, while the Vintage Theatre Company specializes in classic works.
Aurora’s art galleries host regular exhibitions featuring the works of emerging and established artists. The city’s music venues offer a diverse lineup of concerts, from classical to rock to jazz.
Special Events and Festivals: Things To Do In Aurora
Aurora hosts a variety of special events and festivals throughout the year. These events celebrate the city’s diverse culture, history, and community spirit.
Here is a calendar of upcoming special events and festivals in Aurora:
Aurora Festival of Lights
- Dates: December 1-31
- Location: Aurora City Center
- Theme: Holiday lights and decorations
- Special activities: Santa’s Workshop, ice skating, live music, and more
Aurora ArtWalk
- Dates: Second Friday of every month
- Location: Downtown Aurora
- Theme: Local art and culture
- Special activities: Gallery openings, live music, and food trucks
Aurora Farmers Market
- Dates: Saturdays from May to October
- Location: Aurora City Center
- Theme: Local produce, crafts, and food
- Special activities: Cooking demonstrations, live music, and kids’ activities
Conclusive Thoughts
From its stunning parks to its vibrant arts scene, Aurora offers a wealth of experiences for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family adventure or a relaxing getaway, Aurora has something for everyone. So, come explore this hidden gem and create lasting memories.
FAQ Insights
What are the most popular attractions in Aurora?
Aurora offers a range of popular attractions, including the Aurora History Museum, the Stanley Marketplace, and the Aurora Reservoir. These destinations provide insights into the city’s past, offer unique shopping experiences, and showcase its natural beauty.
Are there any outdoor activities available in Aurora?
Yes, Aurora boasts several parks and trails perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and boating in scenic locations like Cherry Creek State Park and Aurora Hills Golf Course.
What are the best shopping and dining options in Aurora?
Aurora offers a diverse array of shopping and dining options. The city is home to shopping malls like Aurora Mall and Southlands Mall, as well as charming local boutiques and markets. For dining, Aurora has a wide selection of restaurants serving cuisines from around the world.
