Aurora Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and more in Aurora, Canada with this comprehensive travel guide. Plan your trip with ease!


Introduction to Aurora

Nestled in York Region and considered part of the Greater Toronto Area, Aurora is a beautiful town in the province of Ontario, Canada. With a population of around 60,000 people, this town is a hidden gem, offering numerous tourist attractions, scenic natural landscapes, and delightful local cuisine.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or a food enthusiast, Aurora has something to offer for everyone. With over 600 acres of parks, there are endless hiking and biking trails, magnificent waterfalls, picturesque lakes, and wildlife sanctuaries to explore.

This guide will help you make the most out of your trip to Aurora by highlighting some of the top places to visit, the best local cuisine to try, and providing you with travel tips to make your trip a memorable one.

List of Places to Visit in Aurora

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hillary House National Historic Site: This beautiful Georgian-style house built-in 1862 has been designated a National Historic site and serves as a museum today. Visitors can explore the house, which has preserved some of the subjects’ Victorian-era artifacts and experience what life would have been like in the past.

  • Aurora Cultural Centre: A place where art, history, and culture converge, the Aurora Cultural Centre is an art and performance venue that hosts exhibitions, concerts, and workshops throughout the year. From art exhibitions and theatre performances to unique events like cocktail-making workshops, the Aurora Cultural Centre is a vibrant hub for all things artistic in Aurora.

  • Aurora Museum & Archives: A treasure trove of artifacts and records, Aurora Museum & Archives, aims to preserve the rich history of the town of Aurora. The museum houses permanent and temporary exhibits that showcase Aurora’s past, and visitors can also explore the archives to learn about the leaders, stories, and events that shaped the town.

Natural Attractions of Aurora: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Aurora Arboretum: A beautiful natural space, the Aurora Arboretum is situated on the banks of St. John’s Sideroad and is an ideal spot for a family picnic or a solo hike. Visitors can explore the 100-acre park’s varied ecosystems, including ponds, meadows, and woodlands.

  • Aurora Farmers’ Market & Artisan Fair: Held every Saturday from late May to early October, the Aurora Farmers’ Market is a must-visit for foodies and art lovers. Visitors can browse vendors selling local produce, meats, baked goods, and handmade goods from local artists and craftspeople.

  • Lake Wilcox Park: This is the largest park in Aurora, and visitors will fall in love with its serene and tranquil atmosphere. With a variety of recreational activities like fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, Lake Wilcox Park is the perfect outdoor adventure spot.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aurora

  • Tom Taylor Trail: A stunning hiking trail that runs along the east side of Aurora is the Tom Taylor Trail. This former railway line is a nature lover’s paradise and is an excellent spot for birdwatching and picnicking.

  • Sheppard’s Bush Trail: This trail is perfect for hiking, biking, or just taking a relaxing stroll in the great outdoors. With lush forests, scenic views, and some wildlife spotting opportunities along the way, the Sheppard’s Bush Trail is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Best Things to Do in Aurora: Activities and Tours

  • Aurora Farmers’ Market & Artisan Fair: As mentioned earlier, the Aurora Farmers’ Market is a great place to experience the town’s local flavors while enjoying live music and performances.

  • Aurora Cycle & Sports: Ideal for families with kids, Aurora Cycle & Sports offers numerous sports activities like karting, bowling, mini-golf, and batting cages to enjoy.

  • Cinemaclock: A classic cinema house, Cinemaclock is the perfect place to catch the latest blockbuster or an old classic. The cozy and comfortable atmosphere is a great way to unwind after a day packed with activities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aurora

Day Activity
1 Visit the Aurora Museum & Archives and explore the history and culture of Aurora
2 Hit the trails at the Aurora Arboretum and hike along the Tom Taylor Trail
3 Go fishing, kayaking, or canoeing, or just relax by the lake at Lake Wilcox Park
4 Join a cocktail-making workshop or attend an art exhibition at the Aurora Cultural Centre
5 Explore the natural beauty of Sheppard’s Bush Trail and have a picnic
6 Visit the Hillary House National Historic Site and learn about the Victorian era
7 Enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Aurora Farmers’ Market & Artisan Fair

Food and Drink Scene of Aurora

Must-Try Dishes

  • Butter Chicken: A staple of Indian cuisine, butter chicken in Aurora is packed with spices and flavors that spice lovers will adore.

  • Fish and Chips: An all-time classic, Aurora’s fish and chips are fresh, delicious, and bursting with flavor.

  • Poutine: A Canadian specialty, Aurora’s poutine is a must-try dish. With fluffy fries, squeaky cheese curds, and delicious gravy, it’s a perfect snack for any time of the day.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Aurora’s local brewing company, Arch Brewing Co., specializes in small-batch beer production, and their microbrews are well worth the visit.

  • Wine: Visit Magnotta Winery and indulge in some of the best wines Aurora has to offer.

Where to Stay in Aurora: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Best Western Parkway Inn & Conference Centre: Located on Yonge Street, this hotel is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for a comfortable yet affordable stay.

  • Aurora House Bed & Breakfast: Close to most of the tourist attractions, this charming and cozy bed and breakfast is perfect for a romantic getaway.

What to Buy in Aurora: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Maple Syrup: Canada’s most prized export, Aurora’s maple syrup, is the perfect souvenir to bring back home.

  • Handmade Crafts: Support local artisans and purchase their handmade crafts, like pottery, jewelry, and textiles, as souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Aurora

Aurora is a friendly town where residents take pride in their traditions and local customs. Always polite and hospitable, Aurora’s culture celebrates diversity and promotes inclusiveness.

Best Time to Visit Aurora

The best time to visit Aurora is in the summertime, from June to September. With a range of festivals and outdoor activities hosted during these months, visitors can enjoy pleasant weather and experience the town’s vibrant culture.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aurora

Do:

  • Respect the town’s local customs and traditions.

  • Explore the natural landscapes of Aurora and participate in activities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking.

  • Take part in the town’s thriving local food scene.

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the town’s environment in any way.

  • Disrespect locals or their property.

  • Ignore traffic rules when driving around the town.

Safety and Health

Safety in Aurora

Aurora is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors can move around the town without any safety concerns. However, it’s always best to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking around dark, isolated areas at night.

Health in Aurora

Medical facilities in Aurora are excellent, with top-notch hospitals and clinics providing high-quality care. Travelers are advised to take health precautions, like getting travel insurance and carrying their medical records and prescriptions during their trip.

Getting to Aurora: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Aurora

  • Toronto Pearson International Airport: This is the closest international airport, located around 42 kilometers south of Aurora.

Bus Stations Near Aurora

  • Newmarket GO Station: Situated less than 5 kilometers away from Aurora, the Newmarket GO Station is well-connected with various travel points and serves as a major bus terminal in the area.

Other Options

Visitors can also choose to rent a car or hire a taxi to explore the town’s numerous attractions.

How to Get Around in Aurora

Aurora is a small town that is easy to navigate. Visitors can choose between public transportation, renting a car, or hiring a taxi to explore the town’s various attractions.

Where to Go Next from Aurora: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Toronto: Only 35 kilometers away from Aurora, Canada’s largest city offers a host of tourist attractions and cultural experiences.

  • Guelph: Situated around an hour’s drive from Aurora, Guelph is a thriving college town that boasts medieval-style architecture and rich history.

Conclusion

Aurora may be a small town, but its rich culture, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant local cuisine provide an unforgettable travel experience. Use this guide to plan your trip and discover the best this town has to offer.

Aurora Library Aurora Library Trinity Anglican Church Trinity Anglican Church Hillary House and Koffler Museum of Medicine Hillary House and Koffler Museum of Medicine