Aurora Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Aurora, Illinois in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Aurora

Aurora is a vibrant city located in the Fox River Valley of Chicagoland in the state of Illinois in the Midwest region of the United States of America. With a rich history, cultural attractions, and scenic views, Aurora has something to offer for everyone. In this tour guide, we will take you on a journey through Aurora, sharing with you the best places to visit, things to do, and local customs to make your trip a memorable one.

List of Places to Visit in Aurora

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Aurora has a rich history, and there are plenty of museums and historical places that detail the city’s past. Some of the must-visit museums and historical places in Aurora include:

  • The Aurora Regional Fire Museum: This museum showcases the history of firefighting in Aurora and includes exhibits on the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.
  • The Aurora History Museum: This museum showcases Aurora’s history, including exhibits on agriculture, industry, and education.
  • The Tanner House Museum: This historical house museum offers a glimpse into life in the 19th century and features exhibits on local history and decorative arts.

Natural Attractions of Aurora: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you love the great outdoors, Aurora has plenty of natural attractions to explore. Here are some of the top outdoor adventures and scenic views to visit in Aurora:

  • The Fox River Trail: This 44-mile trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and walking and offers stunning views of the Fox River.
  • Red Oak Nature Center: This nature center features hiking trails, a butterfly garden, and educational exhibits on local wildlife and ecosystems.
  • Blackberry Farm: This historic farm features a petting zoo, pony rides, and a miniature train ride around the property, perfect for families with young children.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aurora

Aurora has a variety of hiking and biking routes to explore the city’s natural beauty. Here are some of the top trails to hit in Aurora:

  • Virgil L. Gilman Trail: This trail is 11 miles long and runs through both Aurora and neighboring communities down to the Fox River Trail.
  • Waubonsie Lake Trail: This trail is a scenic 2.4-mile loop around the lake, perfect for a quick but picturesque hike.
  • Illinois Prairie Path: This 62-mile converted railway is perfect for a long distance bike ride, offering scenic views of the natural habitats along the way.

Best Things to Do in Aurora: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours that you can enjoy in Aurora. Here are some of the best things to do while you’re in Aurora:

  • Paramount Theatre: This historic theatre has been restored to its original beauty and offers a variety of concerts and performances throughout the year.
  • SciTech Hands-On Museum: This interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits on science, technology, engineering, and math, perfect for families with young children.
  • Ghost Tours: Aurora has a rich history, and you can explore its haunted past on various ghost tours offered throughout the city.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aurora

If you have a week to spend in Aurora, here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Aurora History Museum, The Paramount Theatre, and Prairie Street Brewing Company
2 Explore the natural beauty of Aurora with a hike on the Fox River Trail followed by a picnic at Hudson Crossing Park
3 Head to the Aurora Regional Fire Museum and Tanner House Museum followed by dinner at Two Brothers Roundhouse
4 Take a day trip to Chicago and enjoy the city’s famous attractions
5 Visit the SciTech Hands-On Museum and take a ghost tour of Aurora
6 Enjoy the art exhibits at the Aurora Public Art Commission and indulge in some shopping at the Chicago Premium Outlets
7 Spend a relaxing day at the Phillips Park Zoo and Red Oak Nature Center followed by dinner at Ballydoyle Irish Pub

Food and Drink Scene of Aurora

Aurora boasts a diverse food and drink scene with something for every palate. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages you should indulge in while in Aurora:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicago-style hot dogs and pizza: While technically not unique to Aurora, these are staples of the Chicago area food scene.
  • Italian beef sandwiches: A Chicago-area specialty, the Italian beef sandwich is a must-try when visiting Aurora.
  • Pierogis: These Polish dumplings are a favorite among Aurora’s Polish community.

Local Beverages

  • Two Brothers Brewing Company: This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers and is a popular spot among locals.
  • Tredwell Coffee: This coffee roastery and cafe offers a variety of coffee drinks made with beans roasted in-house.

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

Aurora offers a variety of accommodation options for all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay in Aurora:

  • Hotel Indigo: This boutique hotel offers stylish accommodations in the heart of downtown Aurora.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites along with free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
  • Aurora Fox Valley Inn: This budget-friendly hotel is great for travelers on a tight budget.

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

When in Aurora, some of the best souvenirs to bring back home with you include:

  • Handmade soaps from Soapology
  • Local artwork from the Aurora Public Art Commission
  • Aurora-themed souvenirs from Wyckwood House

Local Culture and Customs of Aurora

Aurora is a welcoming and diverse community, and it’s essential to respect its customs and traditions. Some important customs to keep in mind include:

  • Be respectful towards others, regardless of their cultural backgrounds.
  • Aurora has a rich history, and it’s important to be mindful of historical landmarks and protect them.
  • The Fox River is an essential natural resource in Aurora, so it’s important to dispose of trash responsibly and not pollute.

Best Time to Visit Aurora

The best time to visit Aurora is in the summer, when the weather is mild and many outdoor activities and events take place. Fall is another great time to visit Aurora when the foliage starts to change, offering breathtaking views.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aurora

Do:

  • Enjoy the natural beauty of Aurora, but be mindful of responsible disposal of trash.
  • Respect the cultural rights of others and be inclusive.
  • Take care of historical landmarks and protect them for future generations.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the Fox River or surrounding natural habitats.
  • Ignore historical landmarks or damage them.
  • Disrespect local culture or violate the rights of others.

Safety and Health

Safety in Aurora

Aurora is generally a safe city, but as with any urban area, it’s important to be vigilant and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

  • Keep an eye on your belongings while in public areas.
  • Exercise caution when visiting unfamiliar neighborhoods, especially after dark.
  • Follow traffic laws and use designated crosswalks when walking or cycling.

Health in Aurora

Aurora has quality medical facilities, but it’s still important to take care of your health during your visit. Here are some health-related tips to keep in mind:

  • Stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.
  • Wear sunscreen when spending time outdoors.
  • Wash your hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer with you.

Getting to Aurora: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Aurora

The closest airport to Aurora is Chicago O’Hare International Airport, which is about an hour’s drive away.

Bus Stations Near Aurora

The Aurora Transportation Center offers bus service to various destinations throughout the region, including Chicago.

Other Options

If you prefer to drive, Aurora is easily accessible via major highways, including Interstate 88 and 55.

How to Get Around Aurora

Aurora is a walkable city, especially in the downtown area. If you prefer to drive, car rentals are available, or ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft are also available.

Where to Go Next from Aurora: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If visiting Aurora, you may also consider exploring nearby destinations like:

  • The city of Chicago, located about an hour away.
  • The scenic Starved Rock State Park, about an hour and thirty minutes away.
  • The charming town of Galena, located about two hours away.

Conclusion

Aurora is a city with a rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty. From museums and historical landmarks to outdoor adventures and delicious food and drink options, Aurora has something for everyone. By following the tips and recommendations in this tour guide, you can make the most of your visit to Aurora and create lasting memories.

The Paramount Theater and Leland Tower downtown The Paramount Theater and Leland Tower downtown The Sunken Garden in Phillips Park The Sunken Garden in Phillips Park The Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall The Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall The Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple of Greater Chicago The Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple of Greater Chicago