An active city that’s no stranger to the great outdoors, Aurora has an alluring vibe and is close to a number of top attractions. Immerse yourself in the local parks, stores and museums, or take a day trip into the serene wilderness.
Get active in local parks
In this land of open space and nature trails, beautiful parks are no rare sight. The Cherry Creek State Park is one of the best, with more than 4,000 acres of recreational fields, lakes and grasslands. One lake even has its own beach, loved by families throughout the summer.
The modern campsite and nature trails here are open all year round, creating an oasis for relaxation and adventure lovers. On-site activities include boating, archery, horseback riding and even cross-country skiing in winter. For something a little more sedate, take the whole family to Piney Creek or Butterfly Hill to catch a glimpse of the local wildlife.
Treat yourself to boutique shopping
Staying in Aurora means you can enjoy hopping from city to nature - and back again. At its centre is a vibrant retail scene, filled with boutique stores, chic malls and niche brand outlets. Once you’re all shopped out, there are plenty of restaurants to refuel and refresh at.
Take a trip to the Town Center at Aurora shopping mall, with enough stores to help you feel pampered for the entire day. Or stop off at one of the retail parks on the outskirts, such as Southlands, on your way back from the mountains.
Dallas Street is home to Stanley Marketplace, where more than 50 independent businesses provide a local shopping experience. You’ll find microbreweries, coffee shops, fashion stores and much more all under one roof.
See the Mile High City
Aurora is one of the main cities in the Metro Denver region, so you can easily visit Denver, the Mile High City - named as it sits 5280 feet above sea level. The state capital is just 20 minutes away by car, so city lovers can get their skyscraper fix in a single afternoon.
Spend a few hours at Denver Art Museum, gazing at the Native American artworks. Afterwards, head to Denver Botanic Gardens, a sprawling oasis of green in the Cheesman Park neighbourhood. Wander the paths, fringed by local and tropical plants, and stop by the Water Gardens, where a series of pools are filled with gorgeous waterlilies.
Get inspired at out-of-this-world museums
A creative spirit runs through Aurora thanks to its thriving arts scene. The Aurora Cultural Arts District is where you can sample a taste of the Coloradan festival spirit. Catch a performance at the Aurora Fox theatre or stop the Downtown Aurora Visual Arts centre to discover exhibits by young local artists.
Science and tech lovers should set time aside to discover the intriguing Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. On the grounds of a former airbase, you can stroll around historic aircraft and rockets, including a WWII-era bomber. Explore an interactive aerospace exhibition and enjoy a thrilling flight simulator experience.
Take a trip to the slopes
Ancient snow-dusted mountains, pretty wildflower meadows, lush forests, pristine lakes - discover an awe-inspiring natural playground when you venture to the Rocky Mountains National Park. Around 90 minutes from Aurora, and with plenty of adventure sports, it’s the ultimate day trip destination for all the family.
Here you’ll find more than 570km of hiking trails winding past waterfalls and through verdant valleys. Twin Sisters Peak is one of the best with sweeping vistas of Estes Cone and Longs Peak. For a spectacular drive, follow Trail Ridge Road as it snakes into the heart of the national park, offering up romantic views of the alpine tundra along the way.
Rent a car in Aurora to see city lights, the wonders of nature and everything in between.
