Aurora Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit in Aurora, Colorado, and learn about its culture, food, accommodations, safety, transportation options, and nearby destinations.
- Introduction to Aurora
- List of Places to Visit in Aurora
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Aurora
- Best Things to Do in Aurora: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Aurora
- Food and Drink Scene of Aurora
- Where to Stay in Aurora: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Aurora: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Aurora
- Best Time to Visit Aurora
- Do’s and Don’ts of Aurora
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Aurora: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Aurora
- Where to Go Next from Aurora: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Aurora
Located in the Denver metropolitan area, Aurora is a picturesque city that is surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, offering visitors a wide range of activities, including outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and culinary experiences. Home to over 375,000 residents, Aurora is a diverse and vibrant city with over 100 parks, numerous museums, and a rich history.
List of Places to Visit in Aurora
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Aurora History Museum: This museum showcases Aurora’s history, from its early pioneer days to the present day.
- Bicentennial Art Center: The center is a hub for the local arts community, with a rotating collection of exhibits and workshops.
- Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum: Experience aviation history and learn about the pioneers who made it possible.
Natural Attractions of Aurora: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Cherry Creek State Park: This park has a reservoir, beaches, camping, and hiking trails.
- Aurora Reservoir: The reservoir offers fishing, boating, and hiking trails.
- Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge: The refuge is home to bison, deer, and bald eagles.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Aurora
- The High Line Canal Trail: This trail spans over 70 miles and is perfect for walking, biking, or jogging.
- Sand Creek Greenway Trail: This 14-mile trail follows Sand Creek and offers scenic views of the city.
Best Things to Do in Aurora: Activities and Tours
- Aurora Sports Park: The park offers multiple sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails.
- Aurora Symphony Orchestra: Enjoy classical music performances throughout the year.
- Aurora Farmer’s Market: The market sells local produce, unique crafts, and artisanal foods.
Week-Long Itinerary for Aurora
| Day | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit the Aurora History Museum | Aurora |
| Day 2 | Explore the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge | Denver |
| Day 3 | Hike at Cherry Creek State Park | Aurora |
| Day 4 | Enjoy a concert at the Aurora Symphony Orchestra | Aurora |
| Day 5 | Shop at the Aurora Farmer’s Market | Aurora |
| Day 6 | Bike along the Sand Creek Greenway Trail | Aurora |
| Day 7 | Visit the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum | Denver |
Food and Drink Scene of Aurora
Must-Try Dishes
- Green Chili: A spicy pork stew served with tortillas or bread.
- Rocky Mountain Oysters: Deep-fried bull’s testicles that are often served as a bar snack.
- Pho: A Vietnamese noodle soup that is popular in Aurora’s diverse community.
Local Beverages
- Colorado Craft Beer: Sample some of the state’s best craft beers at Dry Dock Brewing or Comrade Brewing.
- Local Wines: Visit Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, which offers tastings of Colorado wines made from grapes grown in the state.
Where to Stay in Aurora: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Hyatt Regency Aurora-Denver Conference Center: A luxury hotel that offers easy access to the airport and downtown Denver.
- Denver Airport Marriott at Gateway Park: A comfortable, business-friendly hotel that is just minutes from the airport.
- Aloft Denver International Airport: A hip, modern hotel that offers trendy decor and a fun atmosphere.
What to Buy in Aurora: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Colorado Craft Beer: Bring back some of Aurora’s best craft beers to share with your friends and family.
- Local Honey: Pick up some honey from local beekeepers and farmers’ markets.
- Native American Crafts: Visit one of the many shops that sell pottery, jewelry, and other crafts made by local Native American artisans.
Local Culture and Customs of Aurora
Aurora is a diverse city that celebrates a variety of cultures, including African American, Asian American, and Hispanic. Be respectful of the customs and traditions of each group, and take the time to learn about their history and contributions to the city.
Best Time to Visit Aurora
The best time to visit Aurora is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor activities are in full swing. The fall months are also a beautiful time to visit, with the changing colors of the leaves adding to the already stunning scenery.
Do’s and Don’ts of Aurora
Do:
- Take advantage of the numerous outdoor activities available in the area.
- Embrace the local culture and diversity.
- Sample the local cuisine and craft beer.
Don’t:
- Ignore the local customs and traditions.
- Underestimate the changing weather conditions at high altitudes.
- Forget to pack sunscreen and drinking water for outdoor activities.
Safety and Health
Safety in Aurora
Aurora is a relatively safe city, but like any city, it is important to exercise caution and common sense. Avoid walking alone in dark or unfamiliar areas, and always lock your car and hotel room.
Health in Aurora
At high altitudes, it is crucial to stay hydrated and to avoid overexertion. Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, which can include headache, nausea, and difficulty breathing.
Getting to Aurora: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Aurora
- Denver International Airport: The airport is located about 15 miles from Aurora and is the largest airport in the region.
- Centennial Airport: A smaller airport that primarily serves private and business jets.
Bus Stations Near Aurora
- Greyhound Stations: Located in downtown Denver and the nearby city of Lakewood, these stations offer bus service to Aurora and other surrounding areas.
Other Options
- Car Rentals: Rent a car from one of the many rental car companies located at the airports or in downtown Denver.
- Ride-Sharing Services: Companies like Uber and Lyft operate in the Denver area and offer affordable and convenient transportation options.
How to Get Around in Aurora
The best way to get around Aurora is by car, but there are also bus routes and bike share programs available:
- RTD Bus Routes: The Regional Transportation District (RTD) operates numerous bus routes throughout Aurora.
- Bike Share Programs: Aurora is home to bike share programs, including B-cycle and Lime.
Where to Go Next from Aurora: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Denver: The bustling city of Denver is just a short drive from Aurora and offers world-class museums, parks, and attractions.
- Boulder: Known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural events, Boulder is a popular daytrip destination.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: This national park offers stunning scenery, hiking trails, and a chance to see wildlife like elk and bighorn sheep.
Conclusion
With its combination of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities, Aurora offers something for everyone. Whether you prefer hiking in the mountains, exploring museums, or trying new foods, you will find plenty to do and see in this vibrant city. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to experience all that Aurora has to offer.
