Top Aurora Attractions to include in your Itinerary

Jumpstart your vacation planning with our guide to crafting your next Aurora adventure! Whether you're a traveler from afar seeking insider tips or a local in search of new experiences, we're here to turn your vacation dreams into reality.

Southlands | Directions

Aurora has amazing shopping destinations, and Southland's is no exception! Discover Colorado's largest outdoor mall and find boutiques, restaurants, a movie theater, classic department stores, seasonal family activities, and events like the Wine Walk, Derby Day, and holiday parade throughout Main Street! 

Stanley Marketplace | Directions

One of the most amazing spots in Aurora is Stanley Marketplace. Previously a former aviation manufacturing facility, the Stanley now boasts a hub of over 50 independent and locally owned businesses, including shopping, dining, a brewery, fitness spots, a cooking school, and more family-friendly activities, all within one community gathering place. Located in northwest Aurora, the Stanley Marketplace is a definite attraction for those who are new or have yet to explore. With exciting seasonal events from summer to holiday, Stanley Marketplace is a must-see in Aurora.

Umi | Directions

Meet Umi, Daniel Popper's 21-foot-tall art installation. 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. Learn more about Umi’s design inspiration and visit her at the Aurora Highlands!

Discover more exciting art installations and murals with the Art in the Park series along Hogan Park at Highlands Creek. Explore incredible artists adorning Aurora and uncover more hidden gems by checking out The Aurora Highlands in Aurora's airport neighborhood! 

Cherry Creek State Park | Directions

Immerse yourself in Colorado's outdoor wonders during your Aurora adventure! With an expansive 8,000 acres of open space, 119 miles of trails, 103 parks, 3 nature centers, and 2 reservoirs, Aurora beckons outdoor enthusiasts to explore its natural treasures. Discover Cherry Creek State Park, where summer adventures begin with paddleboarding, boating, kayaking, camping, and more. Linked to 12 Mile Stables, the park's trail systems offer scenic horseback rides, providing a unique perspective on Aurora's rich flora and fauna.

Aurora Reservoir | Directions

Colorado may be landlocked, but the Aurora Reservoir offers a beach experience with a Rocky Mountain twist. The reservoir offers seasonal fun with paddleboarding and boating during warmer months, the location of Aurora Pride in August ice fishing opportunities during the winter. It boasts everything from beach volleyball and prime fishing spots to picnic areas. Beachgoers can also enjoy the Senac Creek Nature Center for its educational programs on Aurora's ecosystems and other exhibits.

The Aurora Fox Arts Center | Directions

The Aurora Fox Arts Center stands as a distinguished professional theater company celebrated for its vibrant legacy of community, culture, and artistic excellence. Featuring many local Aurora artists, the Aurora Fox showcases fully produced shows, a summer children’s theater program, and special programming. If you’re a lover of theater, The Aurora Fox Arts Center is a must-see attraction during your stay.

Dine, See Performances, and Discover Aurora's Art Scene along E Colfax Ave | Directions

Aurora has many hidden gems, and Northern Aurora has incredible dining and art that are called to be explored! As another hub filled with incredible ethnic eateries, there's much to explore on E Colfax Ave.; find the best restaurants offering global cuisines like Dan Da Vietnam, Mango House, Banh & Buttery Bakery, and Guadalajara Authentic Mexican Buffet, to name a few! 

Besides offering some of the best bites in Aurora, immerse yourself in the arts scene with incredible performances by local artists inside The People's Building, Vintage Theatre, and the Aurora Fox Arts Center! These performing arts theaters host season performances featuring your favorite plays, musicals, and independent works that are a must-see for theater aficionados!

Remember to visit E Colfax Ave to view the highly beloved annual mural festival, Colfax Canvas, held every September! Immerse yourself in a vibrant mural journey at the Arts and Culture District of Aurora (ACAD). Step into a world of cultural richness and explore the many talents of local creatives and artists.

Eat On Havana Street | Directions

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. Immerse yourself in a tapestry of culturally diverse experiences as you explore Havana Street, where every bite tells a unique story, and every corner invites you to savor a global culinary adventure.

Where to stay?

Check out our list of more than 75 hotel partners to find your ideal stay or meeting space here!

If you're planning a stay in Aurora, check out the largest hotel in Colorado, The Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center (find Directions). Near Denver International Airport and accessible from downtown Denver, the Gaylord Rockies is the perfect hotel for your stay in Aurora to get the most out of your Colorado vacation. 

For those visiting Aurora in the summer months, explore the best activities and things to do, including their incredible poolside cabanas, s'mores station, and fun family activities like their scavenger hunts and kid's clubhouse! Or if you're visiting during the holidays or winter time, be sure to check out Gaylord's incredible ICE!, featuring larger-than-life ice sculptures of your favorite Christmas movies! ICE! is a masterpiece crafted by master artisans from Harbin, China, who meticulously sculpted 2 million pounds of ice over several weeks to present you with stunning renditions of holiday movie classics. Learn more about holidays at the Gaylord Rockies here! 

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 some more things to do during your stay, check out upcoming events and happenings on our events page. Need a jumpstart on how to spend a weekend in Aurora? Find the perfect weekend itinerary here!