Welcome to my United States travel blog, where I take you on a journey through the diverse landscapes and hidden gems of this incredible country. In this article, we explore Aurora, Colorado, and uncover the must-visit destinations as well as places to avoid. From the breathtaking natural beauty of Cherry Creek State Park to the vibrant cultural scene in Stanley Marketplace, Aurora offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags and join me as we discover the best and worst spots in Aurora – Colorado!
Must-Visit Attractions in Aurora – Colorado
Aurora, Colorado is a vibrant city with numerous attractions to explore. From natural beauty to cultural experiences, here are some must-visit places:
Aurora Reservoir: Located in the southeast part of the city, Aurora Reservoir offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and picnicking.
Stanley Marketplace: This former aviation manufacturing facility has been transformed into a bustling marketplace that houses local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It’s the perfect place to indulge in unique shopping and dining experiences.
Cherry Creek State Park: Nestled within the borders of Aurora, Cherry Creek State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its expansive trail system, water sports opportunities, and camping facilities, this park offers something for everyone.
The Plains Conservation Center: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the plains at the Plains Conservation Center. Take guided tours to learn about the area’s history and wildlife, and explore the preserved prairie ecosystems.
Southlands Mall: If you’re looking for a retail therapy session, head to Southlands Mall. This open-air shopping center boasts a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Hidden Gems in Aurora – Colorado
While some attractions may steal the spotlight, Aurora also hides several hidden gems worth discovering:
Aurora History Museum: Dive into the rich history of Aurora at the Aurora History Museum. Explore exhibits that showcase the city’s heritage, from pioneer days to modern times.
Great Plains Park: A lesser-known gem, Great Plains Park provides a serene escape from the crowds. Enjoy peaceful walks, bird-watching, and open green spaces perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Aurora Fox Arts Center: For theater enthusiasts, the Aurora Fox Arts Center offers a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts. Experience the local arts scene at this intimate venue.
Star K Ranch: Discover the beauty of nature at Star K Ranch, a hidden oasis in the city. This scenic park features walking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and picnic areas for a tranquil outdoor experience.
John Venezia Community Park: This recently developed park offers something for everyone. Engage in various recreational activities, such as playgrounds, splash pads, sports fields, and walking trails.
Popular Tourist Traps to Avoid
While Aurora has plenty to offer, there are a few tourist traps that might not live up to expectations:
Malls along Havana Street: While these malls may seem enticing, with their diverse range of stores, they often lack the unique charm and local flavor found elsewhere in the city.
Large chain restaurants: Instead of opting for big chain restaurants that can be found anywhere, explore the local dining scene and indulge in the flavors of Aurora’s diverse culinary offerings.
Crowded shopping areas: Some popular shopping areas can get crowded, especially during peak times. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds and have a more enjoyable shopping experience.
Generic hotels near the airport: If possible, explore accommodation options beyond the generic hotels near the airport. Look for boutique hotels or bed and breakfasts that offer a more personalized stay experience.
Overrated tourist attractions: Certain tourist attractions may receive excessive hype but fail to live up to expectations. Research and read reviews before visiting to ensure you spend your time wisely.
Tips for Exploring Aurora Safely
When exploring Aurora, it’s important to prioritize safety. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Stay aware of your surroundings: Like any city, Aurora has its share of neighborhoods and areas that might be less safe. Familiarize yourself with the local area and exercise caution, particularly at night.
Use reliable transportation: Opt for reputable transportation services or rent a car to ensure you can move around the city safely, especially if you plan to venture beyond the main tourist areas.
Follow COVID-19 guidelines: As of now, it is essential to stay updated on the latest COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions in Aurora. Follow social distancing protocols, wear masks when required, and prioritize outdoor activities.
Secure your belongings: Just like any other tourist destination, keep an eye on your personal belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended to minimize the risk of theft.
Seek local advice: Before embarking on any adventure, consider seeking advice from locals or tourism information centers. They can provide insider tips on safe areas and lesser-known attractions.
Seasonal Highlights and Events
Aurora offers an array of seasonal highlights and events throughout the year. Here are some notable ones to look forward to:
Fourth of July Spectacular: Celebrate Independence Day with a bang at the Fourth of July Spectacular in Aurora. Enjoy fireworks, live entertainment, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
Aurora Arts Festival: This annual arts festival showcases the talents of local artists through exhibitions, live performances, workshops, and interactive art displays.
Sights & Sounds of Christmas: Get into the holiday spirit with the Sights & Sounds of Christmas event. Experience festive light displays, ice skating, live music, holiday markets, and visits from Santa Claus.
Aurora Symphony Orchestra Concerts: Enjoy the melodious performances of the Aurora Symphony Orchestra throughout the year. Experience the beauty of live classical music in various venues across the city.
Summer Concert Series: Groove to live music at the Summer Concert Series held at various parks and outdoor venues. Pack a picnic and enjoy performances by local bands and musicians.
Note: The answers provided are fictional and based on general information about Aurora, Colorado.
Frequently Asked Questions in our travel blog
What are the top attractions and places to go in Aurora, Colorado?
Aurora, Colorado is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions and places to explore. Here are some of the top highlights:
1. Aurora Reservoir: This large reservoir offers a range of recreational activities, including swimming, fishing, and boating. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
2. Southlands Shopping Center: This outdoor mall features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
3. Cherry Creek State Park: Located just outside of Aurora, this state park offers opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The park also has a large reservoir for boating and fishing.
4. Stanley Marketplace: Housed in a former aviation manufacturing facility, Stanley Marketplace is a trendy hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment. It’s a must-visit spot for foodies and art enthusiasts.
5. Denver Museum of Nature & Science: While technically located in Denver, this museum is easily accessible from Aurora. It features fascinating exhibits on natural history, space exploration, and anthropology.
6. Children’s Hospital Colorado: For those interested in volunteering or supporting a good cause, this renowned hospital is worth a visit. They often have events and programs open to the public.
7. The Plains Conservation Center: This center offers visitors the chance to learn about the region’s prairie ecosystems and cultural history. They offer guided tours and interactive exhibits.
8. Arapahoe Park Racetrack: Horse racing enthusiasts can head to Arapahoe Park to watch live races and place bets. The park also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year.
These are just a few of the many attractions Aurora, Colorado has to offer. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities, shopping, or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic city.
Are there any areas or neighborhoods in Aurora that visitors should avoid or be cautious about?
While Aurora is generally a safe city, there are a few areas or neighborhoods that visitors should exercise caution in. One of these areas is the East Colfax Avenue corridor, particularly around the area between Yosemite Street and Peoria Street. This area has a higher crime rate compared to other parts of the city. It is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in this specific area.
Additionally, it is recommended to exercise caution in certain parts of the Original Aurora neighborhood, especially around North Chambers Road and East 6th Avenue. While this area has seen improvements in recent years, it still has some higher crime rates.
Overall, visitors to Aurora should prioritize their safety by staying in well-populated and well-lit areas, avoiding displaying valuable possessions, and using common sense precautions. As with any travel destination, it is always a good idea to research and familiarize yourself with the local neighborhoods and follow any guidance provided by local authorities or tourism boards.
What are some family-friendly activities and places to go in Aurora, Colorado?
Aurora, Colorado offers a variety of family-friendly activities and places to explore. Here are some recommendations:
1. Great Plains Park: This spacious park features playgrounds, picnic areas, walking trails, and a splash pad, perfect for family outdoor fun.
2. Aurora Reservoir: Families can enjoy water activities such as swimming, fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking at this beautiful reservoir. The surrounding area also has picnic spots and nature trails.
3. Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum: This interactive museum showcases vintage aircraft and offers hands-on exhibits that will captivate aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
4. Southlands Shopping Center: This open-air shopping center not only provides a variety of shops and restaurants but also hosts events like concerts, movie nights, and holiday celebrations throughout the year.
5. Urban Air Adventure Park: This indoor trampoline park offers a range of activities such as trampoline jumping, climbing walls, warrior courses, and virtual reality experiences for the whole family to enjoy.
6. Cherry Creek State Park: Located nearby, this state park offers opportunities for swimming, boating, camping, and hiking. Families can also enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting in the park’s natural surroundings.
7. Aurora History Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Aurora through various exhibits, including interactive displays and hands-on activities suitable for all ages.
8. Blackstone Country Club: If your family enjoys golf, this country club offers a family-friendly atmosphere, golf courses, and facilities for dining and relaxation.
Remember to check the Aurora event calendar for special family-friendly events happening during your visit.
Are there any specific restaurants or dining options in Aurora that are worth checking out?
There are several fantastic restaurants in Aurora that are worth checking out during your visit. Here are a few recommendations:
1. Totally Tacos: This popular Mexican restaurant offers a wide variety of delicious tacos, burritos, and other traditional Mexican dishes.
2. Five Loaves Eatery: Known for their mouthwatering sandwiches and salads, Five Loaves Eatery is a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
3. Sweet Treats Bakery: If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss Sweet Treats Bakery. They offer an array of delectable pastries, cakes, and cookies that are sure to satisfy any dessert craving.
4. The Bent Fork Grill: For a more upscale dining experience, head to The Bent Fork Grill. They specialize in contemporary American cuisine and offer a diverse menu with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
5. Shanahan’s Steakhouse: If steak is what you’re craving, Shanahan’s Steakhouse is the place to go. They serve high-quality cuts of beef cooked to perfection, accompanied by delicious sides and an extensive wine list.
Remember to check each restaurant’s opening hours and make reservations if necessary, as some places might get quite busy, especially during peak dining hours. Enjoy exploring the culinary scene in Aurora!
Are there any safety concerns or areas to avoid when visiting Aurora, Colorado?
When visiting Aurora, Colorado, it is important to be aware of certain safety concerns and areas to avoid. While Aurora is generally a safe city, like any other place, it is always good to take precautions.
Firstly, it is recommended to avoid walking alone late at night, especially in unfamiliar or isolated areas. It is always safer to travel in groups or use transportation services.
Secondly, it is advisable to keep an eye on your belongings and not leave valuables unattended, especially in crowded places such as shopping centers or tourist attractions. Pickpocketing can occur in any destination, so being mindful of your personal belongings is essential.
Thirdly, it is important to stay informed about the local news and any potential safety alerts or warnings that may be issued for the area. This can be done by monitoring local news channels, websites, or contacting the local authorities for updates.
Lastly, like with any travel destination, it is important to use common sense and trust your instincts. If a particular area or situation seems unsafe, it is best to avoid it and find an alternative.
Overall, Aurora is a vibrant and welcoming city for travelers, but being aware of these safety concerns and taking necessary precautions will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
In conclusion, Aurora, Colorado offers a plethora of breathtaking attractions and must-visit destinations for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. From the stunning beauty of Cherry Creek State Park to the vibrant cultural scene of Stanley Marketplace, this city has something for everyone. However, it is important to exercise caution and avoid certain areas that may pose safety concerns, such as the East Colfax Avenue corridor. By following this guide and heeding local advice, visitors can fully enjoy their time exploring all that Aurora has to offer. Remember to stay informed about current conditions and adhere to any travel warnings or advisories that may be in place. With proper preparation and an adventurous spirit, Aurora will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on any traveler.
