9 Things Not to Miss in Aurora

To ensure you make the most of your visit, we've handpicked our top nine must-see attractions and experiences that promise to leave you awe-inspired.

The Aurora Borealis Festival | Coming November 2024

Get ready for an unforgettable 2024 with the inaugural Aurora Borealis Festival coming this November! This three-day extravaganza promises to ignite Aurora with unparalleled excitement. Prepare to be mesmerized by a symphony of light and innovation featuring breathtaking video mapping, mesmerizing aerial drone displays, captivating light installations, and engaging interactive experiences. From the spellbinding spectacle of lights to live entertainment that will leave you in awe, a vibrant gift bazaar showcasing local creatives and small businesses, tantalizing flavors of Aurora’s culinary scene, and so much more, this festival is a celebration of Aurora's community spirit, boundless creativity, and rich culture. It's an event that visitors and locals alike won't want to miss! Learn more about what to expect! 

Global Fest | Directions

For summer travelers, don't miss out on one of Aurora's standout events: Global Fest! Hosted by the City of Aurora, Global Fest embodies the spirit of 'the world in a city,' celebrating our rich diversity and vibrant communities. It's a can't-miss opportunity to immerse yourself in Aurora's multicultural hub. Global Fest promises an unforgettable journey through Aurora's cultural landscape with live performances, an eclectic global marketplace, a captivating parade of nations, dazzling global fashion showcases, and countless other enriching experiences. Global Fest 2024 is August 17!

A Rocky Mountain Stay at the Gaylord Rockies | Directions

Lose yourself in the Rocky Mountain ambiance and Front Range allure right here in Aurora. Positioned near the Denver International Airport and adjacent to family-friendly attractions like Stanley Marketplace, The Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center stands as the quintessential destination to embrace all that Aurora, CO has to offer. From lively outdoor games on the Grand Lawn to the refreshing Arapahoe Springs Water Park, energizing morning yoga sessions, and indulgent relaxation at Relâche Spa, The Gaylord promises an unparalleled stay experience. Plus, adults can enjoy tailored cocktail classes, ensuring every guest finds their own slice of bliss.

Exciting enhancements and expansions are on the horizon at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center! Enjoy recent additions like the Topgolf Swing Suites, where you can practice your swing and explore an immersive gaming experience, and treat yourself to the tastes of London with the debut of its new English pub, the Fortunate Prospector. Stay in the loop about Gaylord's expansion plans by clicking the link.

Shopping at Stanley Marketplace | Directions

Stanley Marketplace stands out as a gem in Aurora. Once an aviation manufacturing site, it has transformed into a vibrant hub hosting more than 50 independent, locally-owned establishments. From boutique shops to diverse dining options, a brewery, fitness centers, a culinary school, and various family-friendly activities, the Stanley offers a plethora of experiences under one roof. Nestled in northwest Aurora, this bustling marketplace beckons newcomers and seasoned explorers alike to uncover its charms.

Seasons at Southlands | Directions

For an unparalleled shopping adventure, set your sights on Southlands, Colorado's premier shopping destination! Spanning an impressive 1.7 million square feet, it's a retail paradise waiting to be explored. But Southlands offers more than just shopping; it's a year-round spot for entertainment. From the vibrant Southlands Farmer's Market to the soulful tunes of local bands at Sounds of Southlands, the delicious Wine Walk, the spooktacular Fall-O-ween festivities, and the heartwarming Holiday Hometown Parade, Southlands has something for everyone. And for the little ones, there's endless summer fun at Southlands Splash Pad, transforming into a winter wonderland with its ice rink pond when the cold season arrives. Get ready for a shopping experience like no other, coupled with endless entertainment options for the whole family!

Take a Trip to Aurora's Breweries 

Colorado's thriving beer culture shines brightly, and Aurora stands out with its exceptional brews! Join us this National Beer Day as we raise a glass to the remarkable breweries that call Aurora home. With so many unique spots, choosing just one favorite is impossible! Beer enthusiasts and aficionados, uncover your ultimate Aurora Brewery Guide here! Cheers!

Korea Town On Havana Street 

Renowned as one of America's most diverse cities, Aurora boasts a dynamic community brimming with flavors from around the globe. No visit to Aurora is complete without a journey down Havana Street, a culinary haven stretching 4.3 miles, adorned with locally owned restaurants and shops. Koreans are the fourth largest immigrant population in Aurora and along South Havana Street between Sixth and Parker Road is designated as Aurora's Korea Town. Visitors can discover many Korean-owned shops, spas, eateries, pubs, and more. This unique spot offers a flavorful journey; visitors won't want to miss out; your taste buds will thank you! Eating along Havana Street is a definite must-do on your Aurora itinerary!

Aurora Reservoir | Directions

Did you know that Aurora is home to a beach? Well, sort of! The Aurora Reservoir brings the beach vibes to the Rocky Mountains! With over 800 acres of water surface, the reservoir is the perfect trip for all your recreation needs. The reservoir offers seasonal fun with paddleboarding, beach volleyball, kayaking, boating, and swimming during warmer months. Guests can also put ice fishing at the top of their itinerary during the winter season. Beachgoers can also enjoy the Senac Creek Nature Center for its educational programs on Aurora's ecosystems and other exhibits. That's not all; the Aurora Reservoir is home to Aurora Pride during August, where visitors can come together to honor and celebrate our LGBTQ+ community with a large gathering featuring food trucks, various local vendors, live music, and performances. 

Umi | Directions

Meet Umi, the 21-foot-tall art installation by Daniel Popper. Embodying the concept of "Gaia," the goddess of earth, Umi depicts the convergence of woman and tree and is the latest addition to Aurora's cultural and arts scene. This hidden gem is located in Aurora's airport neighborhood. Learn more about Umi's design inspiration and visit her at the Aurora Highlands! The Aurora Highlands also boasts a 2-mile-long art walk experience where visitors can walk through Hogan Park at Highlands Creek while viewing 20 installations featuring sculptures and collections by talented artists. 

Create a memorable trip with family-friendly activities, explore global flavors amid our top-notch culinary scene, or view our many trail systems with breathtaking mountain views. If you need more things to do during your stay, check out upcoming 2024 events and happenings here. Need a jumpstart on how to spend a weekend in Aurora? Find the perfect weekend itinerary here!

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