Attractions and Places To See around Aurora - Top 5

Aurora offers a variety of outdoor activities, from exploring expansive parks to enjoying water sports. You can find opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and paddleboarding at places like Cherry Creek State Park and Aurora Reservoir. The Aurora–Lawrenceburg Trail is a popular paved path for cycling and walking along the Ohio River.

Yes, Aurora is rich in history. You can visit the Hillforest Mansion, an Italian Renaissance-style home built in 1855, or explore Shawnee Lookout Park, which features Native American archaeological burial mounds and historical buildings from the 1800s. Other sites include the Aurora History Museum, DeLaney Farm Historic District, and the Colorado Freedom Memorial.

Many attractions in Aurora are family-friendly. Parks like Cherry Creek State Park and Aurora Reservoir offer swimming beaches, trails, and open spaces. Shawnee Lookout Park is also a great option with its historical elements and open areas. For indoor fun, Stanley Marketplace offers diverse shopping and dining experiences that can appeal to families. You can also find more family-specific information at visitaurora.com.

Yes, the Aurora–Lawrenceburg Trail is a wide, paved multi-use path that is mostly flat and considered wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for strollers as well. Several parks also offer paved paths and accessible facilities.

For nature and wildlife, visit the Plains Conservation Center to see native wildlife like pronghorns, eagles, and bison, or Bluff Lake Nature Center, a 123-acre wildlife park ideal for observing prairie dogs, frogs, rabbits, and various bird species. Cherry Creek State Park and Aurora Reservoir also provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying natural landscapes.

Aurora boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The Aurora Cultural Arts District is home to galleries like The People's Building and DAVA Gallery. You can also enjoy live performances at the Vintage Theatre and the Aurora Fox Arts Center, or listen to the Aurora Symphony Orchestra. Stanley Marketplace also blends shopping, dining, and art installations.

Absolutely. The Aurora–Lawrenceburg Trail is a dedicated cycle way connecting Aurora and Lawrenceburg, offering a 4.5-mile paved path along the Ohio River. For more road cycling options, you can explore various routes around Aurora, including loops from Lawrenceburg that pass by Hillforest Mansion. Find more cycling routes on the Road Cycling Routes around Aurora guide.

Beyond the Hillforest Mansion and Shawnee Lookout Park, Aurora features the DeLaney Farm Historic District with restored 19th-century farm buildings, including the DeLaney Round Barn. The Centennial House, a preserved Queen Anne Victorian home, offers a glimpse into late 19th-century architecture. The Colorado Freedom Memorial is a significant site honoring military members.

Yes, Aurora has several popular spots for shopping and dining. Stanley Marketplace is Colorado's largest indoor marketplace, offering a diverse array of shops, eateries, and community events. Southlands Lifestyle Center is another major destination with numerous stores, dining options, and a central plaza that hosts seasonal events.

Aurora's attractions can be enjoyed year-round. Many outdoor areas like Cherry Creek State Park offer activities in all seasons, from water sports in summer to hiking and wildlife viewing throughout the year. Historical sites and cultural venues are generally open regardless of the season, making Aurora a versatile destination.

For a tranquil experience away from the crowds, consider Bluff Lake Nature Center, a peaceful wildlife park that prohibits motorized vehicles. The DeLaney Farm Historic District offers a quiet look into Aurora's agricultural past. Exploring the public art along Colfax Canvas Murals and On Havana Street can also reveal unique local character.

From Shawnee Lookout Park, you can enjoy great views of the Ohio River. The Aurora–Lawrenceburg Trail also runs along the Ohio River, offering scenic vistas across the water and interesting wooden rail bridges. Many of Aurora's parks and reservoirs provide expansive natural landscapes and water views.