Aurora, Colorado: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you curious about what makes Aurora, Colorado, a top spot to visit? This lively city is just east of Denver and has lots to offer. It's perfect for those who love nature and culture. But what should you do in Aurora, Colorado? Let's explore the best things this city has to offer.

Key Takeaways

• Aurora, Colorado, is a vibrant city with a wide range of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and local attractions.
• The city is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Aurora Reservoir and the Plains Conservation Center.
• Aurora's cultural scene is thriving, with the Aurora Cultural Arts District, the Aurora History Museum, and the Stanley Marketplace offering a variety of arts and entertainment options.
• Visitors can explore the city's diverse dining and shopping opportunities, from international eateries on Havana Street to the premier Southlands Shopping Center.
• Aurora's annual events, such as the Aurora Globalfest and the Aurora Pride Fest, showcase the city's rich cultural heritage and community spirit.

Explore the Great Outdoors at Cherry Creek State Park

Just 10 miles south of downtown Aurora, Cherry Creek State Park is a natural gem. It has nearly 50 miles of trails for hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. This makes it perfect for outdoor lovers.

Hiking, Biking, Fishing, and Boating Opportunities

The 850-acre reservoir is great for water sports like swimming and fishing. It also offers non-motorized boating. For those who prefer land, the trails are perfect for hikers and cyclists of all levels.

Recently, 152 people hiked in the park. They found the trails challenging but enjoyable, moving at a pace of 3.9 km/h.

Picturesque Scenery and Abundant Wildlife

Cherry Creek State Park is famous for its beautiful views and wildlife. You can see everything from grasslands to forests. It's a place where you can find many birds, mammals, and other native animals.

Whether you want a calm walk or an exciting adventure, this park has it all. It's a place for everyone to enjoy nature.

Discover the Plains Conservation Center

In the heart of Aurora, Colorado, a hidden gem awaits - the Plains Conservation Center. This 1,100-acre preserve takes you back in time. It lets you experience the life of early settlers on the Colorado plains. It's an educational and immersive journey through the region's rich history.

Experience Life of Early Settlers

Walk in the footsteps of the brave pioneers who first called this land home. Discover their daily routines, challenges, and victories. Guided tours and exhibits make history come alive, showing you the settlers' resilience and creativity.

You'll learn about traditional farming and see blacksmithing and other crafts in action. The Plains Conservation Center lets you dive into the 1800s lifestyle, showing the beauty and challenges of frontier life.

Historical Exhibits and Interactive Displays

The center also has historical exhibits and interactive displays. They cover the region's natural and cultural history. You'll learn about the Plains Indians, the railroad, ranching, and how the environment shaped the area.

Interactive exhibits let you get hands-on with history. They help you connect with the past and honor the early settlers of Aurora.

If you love history, nature, or just want a unique learning experience, visit the Plains Conservation Center in Aurora. It's a journey back in time. You'll leave with a deeper respect for the early settlers in Aurora and the historical attractions in Aurora that define the area.

Enjoy the Aurora Reservoir

In the heart of Aurora, Colorado, the Aurora Reservoir is a beautiful place for outdoor fun. It covers over 800 acres and is great for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing.

There are trails around the reservoir perfect for hiking, biking, and jogging. You can enjoy the beautiful nature. The reservoir is ideal for a calm picnic or an exciting adventure. It's a top spot for those who love the outdoors in Aurora.

The Aurora Reservoir is a beautiful spot in the city. It offers natural beauty, fun activities, and a peaceful break from daily life.

Visit the Aurora History Museum

For a deeper look into Aurora's past, head to the Aurora History Museum. This museum is all about the city's history, culture, and growth. It has exhibits with historical items and interactive displays that make learning fun for everyone.

Exhibits Showcasing City's History and Culture

The museum has a lot of artifacts and exhibits that tell the city's story. You can see how Aurora started as a trading post in the 1800s. There are also interactive exhibits that make history come alive. They let you experience the historical experiences that helped shape the city.

Interactive Displays and Educational Experience

The museum isn't just about looking at old things. It has interactive displays that make learning fun. You can touch, see, and hear about Aurora's culture and heritage. There are also programs and workshops that make your visit even more special.

"The Aurora History Museum is a treasure trove of local history, providing an engaging and enlightening experience for visitors of all ages."

Experience the Arts at the Aurora Cultural Arts District

In the heart of Aurora, Colorado, the Aurora Cultural Arts District (ACAD) shines brightly. It's a place where art and culture come alive. You'll find galleries, theaters, and spaces for performances that show off the city's creative side.

If you love art or just want a fun night out, ACAD has it all. It hosts events all year, like art shows, live music, theater, and festivals. Don't miss the Fall Into Fun event at Aurora City Hall on October 1st for a taste of the community's artistic vibe.

ACAD is also where local artists get to shine. The Plant Fundraiser on October 1st is a great way to support them. Plus, the Colfax Art Jams event lets you see the wide range of art in Aurora.

For sports fans, the Colorado Rapids vs. FC Dallas game on October 1st at Dick's Sporting Goods Park is a must-see. It's a great mix of sports and culture, showing what makes Aurora special.

Walking through the Aurora Cultural Arts District, you'll meet a community full of creativity. You might enjoy the art, watch a show, or just soak up the atmosphere. Either way, you'll leave with a deeper love for how arts and culture make Aurora unique.

Explore the Stanley Marketplace

The Stanley Marketplace is just 20 minutes from Denver International Airport. It's a top spot in Aurora, Colorado. This place is special because it's in an old aviation building, now a shopping and dining spot.

Repurposed Aviation Manufacturing Facility

The Stanley Marketplace shows how old buildings can become lively spots. It was once a place for making airplanes, but now it's a modern spot for the community. The building keeps its old charm but feels new and welcoming.

Diverse Shops, Restaurants, and Services

At the Stanley Marketplace, you'll find many local shops and eateries. There are artisan food stalls and unique boutiques. Whether you want a great meal or a special gift, you'll find it here.

The marketplace hosts special events all year. In the holiday season, it turns into a magical place with "Camp Christmas." This includes huge holiday displays and art by Lonnie Hanzon. On some Friday and Saturday nights, jazz musician Sebastian Maa plays holiday music.

The Stanley Marketplace is known for its mix of old charm and new life. It has local shops and fun events. It's a key spot for anyone visiting Aurora, Colorado.

Relax at the Morrison Nature Center

In the heart of Aurora, the Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch is a peaceful spot away from city life. It's perfect for those who love nature, offering chances to see local wildlife and enjoy the outdoors.

Wildlife Observation and Nature Walks

The Morrison Nature Center has trails that go through different habitats like wetlands, woods, and meadows. Walking these paths, you might see birds, small mammals, and other wildlife in their natural settings.

For a deeper experience, try a guided nature walk. Experts will show you the local plants and animals, sharing stories about the ecosystem.

Serene Escape from City Life

The Morrison Nature Center is a peaceful break from city life. It's surrounded by nature's calm, helping you relax and refresh. Whether you want a quiet walk, time to think, or to enjoy outdoor recreation in Aurora, this is the place to be.

Walking the trails and enjoying the views, you'll feel like you're in a world of calm and beauty. It's close to Aurora, but feels far away from the city.

Aurora, Colorado: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Aurora is a city in the heart of Colorado, full of things to see and do. It has outdoor adventures and cultural experiences for everyone. Let's explore the best things to do in Aurora, Colorado.

Embrace the Great Outdoors

Start your adventure at Cherry Creek State Park. This beautiful park is perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. It's surrounded by the stunning Rocky Mountains.

Discover the City's Rich History

Learn about Aurora's history at the Aurora History Museum. The museum has exhibits and displays that tell the city's story. The Hometown Pride Exhibit is a must-see for a deeper look at the community.

Explore the Arts and Culture

Check out the Aurora Cultural Arts District for the city's creative scene. It has galleries, performance spaces, and art installations. Don't miss the Aurora Arts Festival, celebrating "Arts on the Block."

Experience Unique Attractions

Visit the Plains Conservation Center for a journey back in time. It lets you experience life as an early settler. The exhibits and displays are interactive and educational.

Aurora has many must-see places, like the peaceful Morrison Nature Center and the lively Stanley Marketplace. It's a former aviation facility now filled with shops, restaurants, and services. Aurora, Colorado, will surely amaze and delight you.

Aurora, Colorado, has outdoor adventures and cultural experiences for everyone. Whether you want to hike, learn about history, or enjoy the arts, this place will impress you.

Enjoy a Day at Southlands Shopping Center

In the heart of Aurora, Colorado, Southlands Shopping Center is a top spot for shopping and fun. It has a wide range of stores, restaurants, and events. It's ideal for a day of exploring.

Southlands is known for its great shopping. You'll find everything from big brands to small, local shops. Whether you want clothes, home decor, or something special, there's plenty to choose from.

But it's not just about shopping. Southlands is also famous for its food scene. You can enjoy everything from quick bites to fancy meals. There's a wide variety of foods to try, from American classics to dishes from around the world.

Southlands is also a place for community events and fun. All year, there are live music, movies under the stars, festivals, and events for families. These activities bring people together and show off what makes Aurora special.

Looking for a day of shopping, dining, or community fun? Southlands Shopping Center is the place to be. With its many options and lively vibe, it's a favorite spot in Aurora for both locals and visitors.

So, why not spend your next day in Aurora at Southlands Shopping Center? It has amazing shopping, dining, and entertainment. It's the perfect way to experience what this Colorado city has to offer.

Conclusion

Aurora, Colorado, is a city full of life and variety. It has many activities and attractions for both locals and visitors. You can enjoy outdoor fun at places like Cherry Creek State Park and the Aurora Reservoir. Or, dive into culture at the Plains Conservation Center, Aurora History Museum, and Aurora Cultural Arts District.

There are also unique spots like the Stanley Marketplace and Southlands Shopping Center for shopping, dining, and entertainment. No matter what you're looking for, whether it's nature, history, or city life, Aurora is a top spot in Colorado.

Outdoor lovers will find plenty to do, from paddleboarding at the Aurora Reservoir to hiking at the Morrison Nature Center. Food enthusiasts can try craft brews at Dry Dock Brewing Company or ciders at the Haykin Family Cider Tasting Room. Families will love the fun at Big Air Trampoline Park and KA-KO JO'S.

Aurora also boasts a rich cultural scene. Events and attractions like the Stanley Marketplace, Southlands Shopping Center, and the Civic Center Night Market highlight this. You can learn about the city's history at the Aurora History Museum or explore the arts at the Aurora Cultural Arts District. There's always something new to explore in this lively Colorado city.