Aurora Travel Guide

Explore the best of Aurora with our comprehensive tour guide, including must-visit places, food and drink scene, things to do, local culture, and safety tips.


Introduction to Aurora

Nestled in the Akron Metropolitan Area, Aurora is a small town in Northeast Ohio that showcases Midwest charm, natural beauty, and rich history. The town is known for its picturesque landscapes, diverse cultural attractions, and exciting outdoor adventures that attract visitors all year round. This travel guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best things to do in Aurora, including must-visit places, hiking and biking routes, local culture, safety tips, and transportation options.

List of Places to Visit in Aurora

Aurora is home to many culturally important attractions and natural wonders that offer excellent sightseeing opportunities. Here are some of the top places to visit in Aurora:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Aurora Historical Society and Museum: Learn about Aurora’s rich history and cultural heritage through a collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays.
  • Geauga Lake’s Wildwater Kingdom: Discover Aurora’s water park that offers a variety of water rides and attractions perfect for all ages.
  • Our Lady of Perpetual Help: A renowned church located in Aurora that serves as a place of worship and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
  • Aurora Farms Premium Outlets: Featuring more than 70 outlet stores, this shopping destination is the perfect place to find deals on designer brands.

Natural Attractions of Aurora: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Aurora Sanctuary: This beautiful natural sanctuary offers over 100 acres of scenic hiking trails, a picturesque woodland setting, and a diverse array of wildlife and plant species.
  • Tinker’s Creek State Nature Preserve: A stunning natural preserve with over 7 miles of hiking trails and views of the Tinker’s Creek Gorge.
  • Aurora Lake Trail: A scenic hiking and biking trail that winds through Aurora Lake Park and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Chagrin River Trail: A beautiful hiking and biking trail that offers spectacular views of the Chagrin River and surrounding natural areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aurora

Aurora offers an extensive network of hiking and biking trails that showcase the town’s natural beauty and rich history. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes of Aurora:

  • The Aurora Sanctuary Trail: This 1.5-mile trail winds through the Aurora Sanctuary and offers a variety of scenic vistas, hidden waterfalls, and stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside.
  • Tinker’s Creek State Nature Preserve Trail: Offering over 7 miles of hiking trails, this trail features incredible views of the Tinker’s Creek Gorge, awe-inspiring waterfalls, and memorable vistas of the surrounding natural areas.
  • Aurora Lake Trail: This 2.5-mile trail winds through Aurora Lake Park and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, lake, and dam.
  • Chagrin River Trail: This 20.7-mile trail offers a scenic and challenging route that winds through the heart of Aurora, passes through several scenic parks and natural areas, and ends at the scenic Chagrin River.

Best Things to Do in Aurora: Activities and Tours

From hiking and biking to shopping and dining, Aurora offers a wide variety of activities and tours that cater to all tastes and preferences. Here are some of the best things to do in Aurora:

  • Aurora Farms Premium Outlets: With over 70 outlet stores, this shopping destination is the perfect place to find great deals on designer and luxury brands.
  • Aurora’s Downtown District: Featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, this quaint downtown area offers excellent dining and shopping options for all visitors.
  • Farmer’s Markets: Aurora’s many farmers’ markets offer fresh, locally sourced produce, baked goods, and other artisanal offerings.
  • Aurora’s Summer Concert Series: Held in Hartman Park, Aurora’s Summer Concert Series features an eclectic mix of musical acts that draw large crowds from across the region.
  • Aurora’s Golf Courses: Aurora is home to some of Ohio’s best golf courses, including the Signature of Solon Country Club, Club Walden, and Barrington Golf Club.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aurora

Planning a week-long trip to Aurora? Here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your trip:

Day 1: Explore the Aurora Historical Society and Museum, followed by a scenic hike in the Aurora Sanctuary.

Day 2: Visit the Geauga Lake’s Wildwater Kingdom and enjoy a day of thrilling water rides and attractions.

Day 3: Discover the Tinker’s Creek State Nature Preserve and hike the breathtaking Tinker’s Creek Gorge Trail.

Day 4: Shop till you drop at the Aurora Farms Premium Outlets, followed by a relaxing afternoon at Aurora Lake Park.

Day 5: Take a ride on the scenic Chagrin River Trail, followed by a visit to one of Aurora’s many farmers’ markets.

Day 6: Tee off at one of Aurora’s premier golf courses, followed by an evening of dining and entertainment in Aurora’s downtown district.

Day 7: Take a day trip to nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Park and explore the park’s many natural wonders and hiking trails.

Food and Drink Scene of Aurora

Aurora’s food and drink scene offers a variety of delicious dining options and local beverages that are sure to delight any traveler. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to add to your list:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Blue Door Cafe & Bakery: Known for their delectable breakfast sandwiches and baked goods, this charming cafe is a must-visit for any foodie.
  • The Cabin Restaurant: This cozy, family-owned restaurant serves up incredible seafood dishes and famous burgers.
  • Taco Tonto’s: A colorful Mexican restaurant with a lively atmosphere, boasting delicious tacos, quesadillas, and homemade guacamole.

Local Beverages

  • M Cellars Vineyard: This award-winning vineyard offers a variety of wines that are made from locally sourced grapes and offer unique, distinct flavors.
  • Mad Cap Brewery: A local brewery known for its refreshing IPAs and seasonal brews that are made with locally inspired ingredients.
  • Aurora’s Coffee Shops: From the charming Tree City Coffee & Pastry to the hipster-inspired Aurora Coffee Roasters, Aurora’s coffee shops offer the perfect spot to relax and indulge in locally roasted coffee.

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

Aurora offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to consider:

  • Inn Walden: A luxurious boutique hotel that offers a world-class spa, golf courses, and impeccable service.
  • Aurora Inn Hotel & Event Center: A charming 19th-century hotel located in the heart of downtown Aurora, offering well-appointed rooms and excellent dining options.
  • Bertram Inn & Conference Center: This elegant hotel features spacious guest rooms and suites, as well as a wide range of amenities that cater to business and leisure travelers alike.

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

Looking for the perfect souvenir to bring back home? Here are some local products and souvenirs to add to your list:

  • Aurora Farms Premium Outlets: Offering over 70 outlet stores, Aurora Farms Premium Outlets is the perfect spot to find deals on designer brands, clothes, and other accessories.
  • The Aurora Historical Society Gift Shop: Located within the Aurora Historical Society Museum, this gift shop offers a variety of locally made crafts, books, and souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Aurora

Aurora is steeped in rich history, culture, and traditions that offer visitors a unique glimpse into Midwestern life and customs. Here are some of Aurora’s local culture and customs to be aware of:

  • Farm-to-Table Practices: Aurora is known for its emphasis on locally sourced food and farm-to-table practices, which are reflected in the town’s many farmers’ markets and restaurants.
  • Industrial Heritage: Aurora has a rich industrial heritage that is reflected in its many museums and historical sites, including the Aurora Historical Society and Museum.
  • Sports: Aurora is home to several prominent sports teams, including the Aurora Greenmen high school football team, which has won several state championships over the years.

Best Time to Visit Aurora

The best time to visit Aurora is between May and October when the weather is warm and pleasant, and many outdoor attractions are open. However, Aurora also offers a variety of indoor activities and attractions that are open year-round and offer unique experiences during the off-season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aurora

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Aurora:

Do:

  • Try local cuisine: Aurora offers a variety of delicious local dishes and beverages that are worth trying.
  • Explore the outdoors: Aurora’s many parks, hiking trails and natural areas offer excellent opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.
  • Respect the locals: The people of Aurora are friendly and welcoming, and it’s important to be respectful of their customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Aurora’s natural areas are beautiful and pristine, and it’s essential to keep them that way by disposing of trash properly.
  • Get too rowdy: While Aurora is a fun-loving town, it’s important to be respectful of the locals and not disturb the peace.
  • Ignore safety guidelines: Aurora’s many outdoor activities and adventures can be thrilling, but it’s important to follow safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Safety and Health

When visiting Aurora, it’s important to be aware of safety and health guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Safety in Aurora

  • When hiking or biking, be aware of your surroundings and be cautious of any potential hazards such as uneven terrain or wildlife encounters.
  • Follow traffic laws and drive defensively when on the road.
  • Observe safety warnings and guidelines posted at local attractions and nature preserves.

Health in Aurora

  • When hiking or being outdoors, bring sufficient water and staying hydrated is important.
  • Practice good hand hygiene and take necessary precautions to avoid the spread of infectious diseases.

Getting to Aurora: Transportation Options and Logistics

Aurora is easily accessible by car, bus, and plane, with several transportation options available to visitors.

Airports Near Aurora

  • Akron-Canton Regional Airport, located approximately 26 miles away from Aurora.
  • Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, located approximately 35 miles away from Aurora.

Bus Stations Near Aurora

  • Greyhound Station in Mentor, located approximately 20 miles away from Aurora.
  • Akron Metro Regional Station, located approximately 18 miles away from Aurora.

Other Options

  • Driving: Aurora is conveniently located near several major highways, including State Route 43 and Interstate-480, making it easily accessible by car.
  • Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available in Aurora.

How to Get Around in Aurora

Aurora is easily navigable on foot, with many attractions located within walking distance of downtown Aurora. For visitors who want to travel further afield, rental cars, bike rentals, and local taxi and ride-sharing services are available.

Where to Go Next from Aurora: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Aurora is located within easy driving distance of several exciting destinations and attractions, including:

  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park: A scenic and expansive national park located just 15 miles from Aurora, offering a variety of hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures.
  • Cleveland: Located just 25 miles away from Aurora, Cleveland is a vibrant city that offers a variety of cultural attractions, excellent dining options, and exciting nightlife.
  • Akron: Known for its thriving arts scene and stunning natural attractions, Akron is located just 15 miles away from Aurora and is well worth a visit.

Conclusion

Aurora is a gem of a town that offers visitors exceptional natural beauty, rich history, and diverse cultural attractions. Whether you’re looking to hike, birdwatch, shop, or relax, Aurora has something to offer for every type of traveler. Use this guide to plan your next trip to Aurora and experience all that Ohio has to offer.

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