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Fun Things to do in Aurora
Colorado
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city guide
Nestled alongside the renowned Mile-High City, Aurora, Colorado, stands as an integral part of the vast Metro Denver area, a dynamic metropolitan region with a population exceeding two million residents. Despite its proximity to the bustling cities of Denver and Lakewood, Aurora has managed to preserve a sense of its small-town charm while embracing significant developments such as the impressive Southlands Lifestyle Center and numerous top-notch 18-hole golf courses.
This unique blend creates a captivating and inclusive city where local breweries harmonize with family-owned eateries along the vibrant streets of Havana Street. In Aurora, residents can be found enjoying leisurely barbecues and relaxing by the shores of nearby reservoirs and creeks. As the sun sets, line-dancing and country music take center stage, reflecting the city's diverse and lively social scene.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and activities that Aurora has to offer, there are several must-try experiences. Visitors can explore the Aurora Reservoir for water activities such as paddleboarding and fishing, or venture into the expansive Cherry Creek State Park for hiking, biking, and picnicking. The Aurora History Museum provides insights into the city's rich heritage, while the Stanley Marketplace offers a unique shopping and dining experience within a repurposed aviation facility.
To stay updated on the latest events, attractions, and hidden gems in Aurora, following these social media accounts can be beneficial:
- Instagram: @AuroraGov
- Facebook: City of Aurora, Colorado
- Twitter: @AuroraGov
Additionally, noteworthy publications like "Aurora Sentinel" and "Visit Aurora" offer comprehensive guides and recommendations on the best activities, dining spots, and events to explore in the city. Whether you're a local resident or a curious traveler, Aurora promises a delightful blend of urban amenities and small-town charm, making it a destination worth discovering.
Best time to go
May 21st to October 7th
based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.
Fun city facts and activities
- Joined at the hip to the famed Mile-High City, Aurora (Colorado), forms one third of the colossal Metro Denver area; a sprawling metropolitan hub that totals more than two million locals in all.
However, unlike its near neighbors of Denver and Lakewood, Aurora has done well to retain something of its small town character, balancing that carefully with huge developments like the great Southlands Lifestyle Center and its countless 18-hole golf courses.
That makes for an interesting and welcoming town, where local breweries meet family-owned restaurants between the lively roadways around Havana Street; where residents barbecue and kick-back on the sands of nearby reservoirs and creeks, and where line-dances and country music are the order of the evening.
Neighborhoods to explore
- Aurora Hills
Heather Ridge
Saddle Rock
Expo Park
Meadow Hills
Aurora Highlands
Centre Pointe
Chambers Heights
Restaurants
Food Specialties
- Aurora is the third-largest city in Colorado and is on the fast track to becoming a culinary hot spot. The city showcases foods from cultures around the world, including Mexican, German, and Ethiopian dishes. With more than 250 eateries spread across this city, coined the "Gateway to the Rockies," youre sure to find something to make everyone at the table happy. These are the can't-miss restaurants in Aurora, Colorado.
Aurora Offbeat activities
Free or cheap things to do
1. Take a Ghost Tour Explore the darker side of Aurora's history by taking a guided ghost tour of the city.
2. Play Laser Tag Take your friends to one of the city's laser tag arenas and battle it out in the fog-filled arena.
3. Visit the Aurora History Museum Learn about the city's past at this museum filled with interactive exhibits and artifacts.
4. Take a Stained Glass Class Learn the art of stained glass at one of the city's many workshops.
5. Visit the Aurora Fox Theater See a classic movie or musical at this historic theater.
6. Take a Cooking Class Learn to make delicious dishes at one of Aurora's culinary classes.
7. Visit a Local Brewery Sample some of the city's best brews at one of Aurora's craft breweries.
8. Take a Hike Explore the great outdoors at one of the city's many hiking
Fun things to do in with kids
Free or cheap things to do
1. CROCK A DOODLE AURORA
Enjoy the fun of pottery painting in our bright and cheerful studio. A special place to gather with family and friends for art activities and every day fun.
2. AIR RIDERZ TRAMPOLINE PARK
Our Trampoline Recreation Centre provides an excellent atmosphere where youll experience fun and fitness by jumping on wall-to-wall trampolines in our 23,000 sq. ft. facility. We take pride in building the safest environment for everyone.
3. LAZER RUNNER
We are the top choice for sports team parties, youth group events, day camp outings, educational school field trips and corporate team building. Laser tag combines the classic game of hide-and-seek and tag with a high tech twist.
4. AURORA ARBORETUM
5. LABYRINTH ESCAPE GAMES
Labyrinth Escape Games is Auroras first live action escape room. Offering multiple, exciting themed experiences to challenge you and your friends.
6. CINEPLEX ODEON AURORA CINEMAS
7. KID'S CUCKOOS NEST
8. URBAN PARK PLAYLAND
City data and FAQ
What is Aurora famous for?
Mostly military, it is home to Buckley Airfield. Buckley has a strong presence in the US National security arena. Fitzsimmons was a large army/airbase in the 50s. Today the largest remnant is the Vetrans Medical Hospital.
Aurora also used to be home to Lowrey Airforce Base. There were a large number of missle silos that were built and maintained by Lowrey. My Grandfater was a painter inside the silos and as a kid I got to go into them with him. That was a real shock and awe moment for me the first time I went inside one.
Today Aurora is very suburban but does still have a large military population. There is also a world class Medical presence in the area. Fitzsimmons, CU Medical Campus, Childrens Hospital and the Anshutz Cancer Research Center are all within walking distance from each other.
Daniel Wofford Lives in Colorado (1957 Present)
Is Aurora Worth visiting?
Well it really depends what youre looking for, if youre looking to meet amazing people from all over the world while having amazing authentic food from all over the world this Aurora is most definitely worth visiting. The dispensaries in Aurora are generally better than the ones in Denver as well Im not too sure why but theyre a lil cheaper, a lot more laid back and try to take care of the customers. Theres some great trails and outdoor activities in Aurora as well and some of the best golf championship golf courses in the state. Since Aurora is situated to the east most part of the Tri state area you have the best views of the mountains you can get in the state as well. Absolutely stunning sunrises and drop dead gorgeous sunsets. If youre visiting Denver or Colorado in general I would definitely take a trip to Aurora, Havana has 100s of restaurants and cuisines that are all amazing and pretty affordable for the most part. And go to Murphy Creek Golf Course to see the best sunsets in the state. Now obviously I was raised in Aurora so there might be some bias however I left the state for a while and just cant stop talking about it to other people. Aurora is honestly one of the 23 cities Id choose to visit and live in if I was doing it all over again. So, YES is it worth visiting Aurora!
Quezdon Ivey Lives in Aurora, CO
Landmarks in the city
1. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: A unique outdoor music venue located in Morrison, Colorado, known for its stunning natural rock formations and acoustics.
2. Cherry Creek State Park: A recreational area offering activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and biking, located in Aurora.
3. Aurora Reservoir: A scenic spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, paddleboarding, and picnicking, with beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains.
4. Southlands Mall: A shopping and dining destination in Aurora with a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
5. The Plains Conservation Center: A 1,100-acre outdoor education facility that showcases the natural and cultural history of the Colorado prairie.
6. Aurora History Museum: A museum that showcases the history and culture of Aurora through exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.
7. Anschutz Medical Campus: A leading medical and research facility in Aurora, home to the University of Colorado Hospital and Children's Hospital Colorado.
8. Aurora Fox Arts Center: A historic theater in Aurora that hosts a variety of performing arts productions, including plays, musicals, and concerts.
9. Buckley Air Force Base: A military installation in Aurora that serves as the headquarters for the 460th Space Wing and provides support to various defense and intelligence operations.
10. Aurora Sports Park: A large sports complex in Aurora with multiple fields for baseball, softball, soccer, and other sports tournaments and events.
