Create meetup in Aurorachevron_right
Select a place on the map to change the location.
arrow_drop_down
schedule
Time
I want to meet
Verified required?
explore Aurora Guides
Things to Do in Aurora (2026)
π¦ Dinosaur Ridge Discoveries
Start your Aurora visit at Dinosaur Ridge, a National Natural Landmark at 16831 W Alameda Pkwy in nearby Morrison. The outdoor trail is free and open daily from dawnβ¦ π¦ Dinosaur Ridge Discoveries
Start your Aurora visit at Dinosaur Ridge, a National Natural Landmark at 16831 W Alameda Pkwy in nearby Morrison. The outdoor trail is free and open daily from dawn to dusk, with over 300 Jurassic-era footprints and bone sites. Guided tours run $15 for adults and $10 for kids, but the self-guided walk is just as rewarding. Insider tip: go early on weekday mornings to avoid school groups and have the tracks to yourself.
π¨ Aurora Cultural Arts District
The Aurora Cultural Arts District along East Colfax Avenue between Dayton and Florence streets is the city's creative heart. Check the schedule at the Aurora Fox Arts Center (9900 E Colfax Ave) for plays and concerts, with tickets typically $25 to $40. Don't miss the rotating exhibits at the People's Building (9995 E Colfax Ave), open Wednesday to Saturday from noon to 5 pm. Free monthly art walks happen on first Fridays, when galleries stay open late and local food trucks line the street.
π³ Cherry Creek State Park
Cherry Creek State Park (4201 S Parker Rd) is a 4,000-acre playground with a 880-acre reservoir for swimming, boating, and fishing. Daily vehicle passes cost $10, and the park opens at 5 am year-round, closing at 10 pm in summer. Rent a paddleboard or kayak from the marina for about $25 per hour, or bike the 12-mile paved trail that loops around the water. Insider tip: the east side near the swim beach is quieter on weekends than the main entrance.
ποΈ Stanley Marketplace
Stanley Marketplace (2501 Dallas St) transformed a former aviation hangar into a community hub with over 50 local shops and eateries. It's open Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 9 pm and Sunday from 8 am to 8 pm, with free parking. Grab a coffee at Logan House Coffee, browse the vintage finds at Rustic Thread, and catch a workout at the Stanley Fitness. Insider tip: the outdoor patio is dog-friendly and perfect for people-watching on sunny afternoons.
πΆ High Line Canal Trail
The High Line Canal Trail stretches 71 miles through the Denver metro, with a scenic 10-mile segment cutting through Aurora. Access it at the Aurora History Museum (15051 E Alameda Pkwy) and walk or bike east toward Cherry Creek. The trail is free and open daily from sunrise to sunset, with parking available at trailheads like Del Mar Park. Insider tip: the section between Del Mar and Utah Park is shaded and especially pretty in fall.
πΊ Local Breweries and Eats
Aurora's craft beer scene is growing fast, with spots like Dry Dock Brewing Co. (15120 E Hampden Ave) pouring award-winning ales in a laid-back taproom. A pint runs about $6 to $7, and tours are offered on weekends for $5. For a bite, head to Sam's No. 3 (2580 S Havana St) for hearty diner fare, or try the green chile at La Cueva (9742 E Colfax Ave). Insider tip: many breweries host food trucks on Friday nights, so check social media before you go.
π Aurora History Museum
The Aurora History Museum (15051 E Alameda Pkwy) offers a free, in-depth look at the city's transformation from a small farming community to a diverse urban center. It's open Tuesday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm and weekends from 11 am to 4 pm, with a suggested donation of $5. The exhibits on early aviation and the Fitzsimons Army Hospital are particularly fascinating. Insider tip: combine your visit with a stroll through the adjacent Aurora Municipal Center's landscaped gardens.
π Seasonal Events
Aurora shines during the holidays, especially at the Aurora Festival of Lights drive-through display in Cherry Creek State Park, running from late November to early January. Entry is $20 per vehicle, and it's open nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 pm. In summer, don't miss the Aurora Arts Festival in June, which fills the Cultural Arts District with live music and art vendors. Insider tip: the city's Fourth of July fireworks at the Aurora Municipal Center are free and draw big crowds, so arrive early for a good spot.
Start your Aurora visit at Dinosaur Ridge, a National Natural Landmark at 16831 W Alameda Pkwy in nearby Morrison. The outdoor trail is free and open daily from dawnβ¦ π¦ Dinosaur Ridge Discoveries
Start your Aurora visit at Dinosaur Ridge, a National Natural Landmark at 16831 W Alameda Pkwy in nearby Morrison. The outdoor trail is free and open daily from dawn to dusk, with over 300 Jurassic-era footprints and bone sites. Guided tours run $15 for adults and $10 for kids, but the self-guided walk is just as rewarding. Insider tip: go early on weekday mornings to avoid school groups and have the tracks to yourself.
π¨ Aurora Cultural Arts District
The Aurora Cultural Arts District along East Colfax Avenue between Dayton and Florence streets is the city's creative heart. Check the schedule at the Aurora Fox Arts Center (9900 E Colfax Ave) for plays and concerts, with tickets typically $25 to $40. Don't miss the rotating exhibits at the People's Building (9995 E Colfax Ave), open Wednesday to Saturday from noon to 5 pm. Free monthly art walks happen on first Fridays, when galleries stay open late and local food trucks line the street.
π³ Cherry Creek State Park
Cherry Creek State Park (4201 S Parker Rd) is a 4,000-acre playground with a 880-acre reservoir for swimming, boating, and fishing. Daily vehicle passes cost $10, and the park opens at 5 am year-round, closing at 10 pm in summer. Rent a paddleboard or kayak from the marina for about $25 per hour, or bike the 12-mile paved trail that loops around the water. Insider tip: the east side near the swim beach is quieter on weekends than the main entrance.
ποΈ Stanley Marketplace
Stanley Marketplace (2501 Dallas St) transformed a former aviation hangar into a community hub with over 50 local shops and eateries. It's open Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 9 pm and Sunday from 8 am to 8 pm, with free parking. Grab a coffee at Logan House Coffee, browse the vintage finds at Rustic Thread, and catch a workout at the Stanley Fitness. Insider tip: the outdoor patio is dog-friendly and perfect for people-watching on sunny afternoons.
πΆ High Line Canal Trail
The High Line Canal Trail stretches 71 miles through the Denver metro, with a scenic 10-mile segment cutting through Aurora. Access it at the Aurora History Museum (15051 E Alameda Pkwy) and walk or bike east toward Cherry Creek. The trail is free and open daily from sunrise to sunset, with parking available at trailheads like Del Mar Park. Insider tip: the section between Del Mar and Utah Park is shaded and especially pretty in fall.
πΊ Local Breweries and Eats
Aurora's craft beer scene is growing fast, with spots like Dry Dock Brewing Co. (15120 E Hampden Ave) pouring award-winning ales in a laid-back taproom. A pint runs about $6 to $7, and tours are offered on weekends for $5. For a bite, head to Sam's No. 3 (2580 S Havana St) for hearty diner fare, or try the green chile at La Cueva (9742 E Colfax Ave). Insider tip: many breweries host food trucks on Friday nights, so check social media before you go.
π Aurora History Museum
The Aurora History Museum (15051 E Alameda Pkwy) offers a free, in-depth look at the city's transformation from a small farming community to a diverse urban center. It's open Tuesday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm and weekends from 11 am to 4 pm, with a suggested donation of $5. The exhibits on early aviation and the Fitzsimons Army Hospital are particularly fascinating. Insider tip: combine your visit with a stroll through the adjacent Aurora Municipal Center's landscaped gardens.
π Seasonal Events
Aurora shines during the holidays, especially at the Aurora Festival of Lights drive-through display in Cherry Creek State Park, running from late November to early January. Entry is $20 per vehicle, and it's open nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 pm. In summer, don't miss the Aurora Arts Festival in June, which fills the Cultural Arts District with live music and art vendors. Insider tip: the city's Fourth of July fireworks at the Aurora Municipal Center are free and draw big crowds, so arrive early for a good spot.
Become a Local Guide
in Aurora to earn up to $50.00/hour by helping travelers that are interested in Aurora and want to connect to learn about the current climate, discover hidden gems, or get help planning their itinerary.
arrow_drop_up
1
arrow_drop_down
Solid list, though I'd add the Aurora Reservoir (5800 S Powhaton Rd) for paddleboarding, quieter and cheaper than Cherry Creek at $10 a day.
arrow_drop_up
21
arrow_drop_down
One thing the guide missed is the Plains Conservation Center out on Hampden, where the raptor and prairie dog walks are worth the small fee.
arrow_drop_up
8
arrow_drop_down
Check the Aurora Fox box office for their pay-what-you-can preview nights, usually the Thursday before a run opens.
arrow_drop_up
4
arrow_drop_down
load 7 more replies
3 Days in Aurora: Itinerary 2026
πΊοΈ Day 1 Morning: Downtown Core
Start your day at the Aurora History Museum (15051 E Alameda Pkwy), which opens at 9am and costs $5 for adults. Spend about an hour exploring local exhibits, then wβ¦ πΊοΈ Day 1 Morning: Downtown Core
Start your day at the Aurora History Museum (15051 E Alameda Pkwy), which opens at 9am and costs $5 for adults. Spend about an hour exploring local exhibits, then walk five minutes to the Aurora Municipal Center for a quick photo at the Great Lawn. Grab coffee at Corvus Coffee (1547 S Broadway) around 10:30am; it's a 10-minute walk from the museum.
π½οΈ Day 1 Afternoon: Stanley Marketplace
From downtown, take the R Line light rail to Central Park Station (15 minutes), then walk 10 minutes to Stanley Marketplace (2501 Dallas St). This converted aviation building houses over 50 local vendors, including Denver Biscuit Company and Sweet Cow Ice Cream. Lunch options range from $10 to $20, and the marketplace is open until 9pm on weekdays.
π Day 1 Evening: Olde Town Aurora
Head to Olde Town Aurora (bounded by E Colfax Ave and S Peoria St) for dinner at La Cueva (9742 E Colfax Ave), a local favorite for New Mexican cuisine with plates around $15. After dinner, catch a show at the Aurora Fox Arts Center (9900 E Colfax Ave); tickets typically start at $27. The area is a 15-minute drive from Stanley Marketplace, or take bus route 15 along Colfax.
π Day 2 Morning: Cherry Creek Trail
Rent a bike from Aurora Bike Share (stations near the Aurora Municipal Center) for $5 per hour and ride the Cherry Creek Trail east toward the Plains Conservation Center (21901 E Hampden Ave). The 12-mile route takes about 45 minutes one way and offers prairie views. Alternatively, drive 20 minutes and join a guided tour at 10am for $10 per person.
ποΈ Day 2 Afternoon: Southlands Mall
After your ride, drive 15 minutes to Southlands Mall (6155 S Main St) for lunch at one of the many restaurants, such as Ted's Montana Grill (main plates $15-$25). Spend the afternoon shopping or catch a movie at the AMC Southlands 16. The mall is open from 10am to 9pm, and parking is free.
π Day 2 Evening: Cultural District
Return to the Aurora Cultural District for an evening at the Aurora Symphony Orchestra (performs at the Aurora Fox Arts Center, 9900 E Colfax Ave); check their website for the 2026 schedule and ticket prices (usually $20-$40). Before the show, have dinner at the Summit Steakhouse (2700 S Havana St), a 10-minute drive away, where entrees run $25-$40. The area is well-lit and easy to navigate by car or rideshare.
π³ Day 3 Morning: Aurora Reservoir
Start early at the Aurora Reservoir (5800 S Powhaton Rd), which opens at 6am for fishing and boating; entry is $10 per vehicle. Rent a kayak from the marina for $20 per hour or hike the 8-mile trail around the water. Bring sunscreen and water, as shade is limited.
π Day 3 Afternoon: Local Eats
After working up an appetite, drive 15 minutes to the Havana Street corridor, known for its diverse food scene. Try the authentic tacos at Tacos Selene (15600 E 6th Ave) for around $3 each, or grab a burger at the Cherry Cricket (2641 E 2nd Ave) for about $15. Most spots are open for lunch from 11am to 2pm.
π Getting Around Aurora
Aurora is spread out, so a car is recommended for most itineraries; rideshares are readily available but can add up. The RTD light rail R Line connects downtown Aurora to Denver, and local buses like the 15 and 21 serve major corridors. Allow 20-30 minutes for most cross-town trips by car during non-rush hours.
Start your day at the Aurora History Museum (15051 E Alameda Pkwy), which opens at 9am and costs $5 for adults. Spend about an hour exploring local exhibits, then wβ¦ πΊοΈ Day 1 Morning: Downtown Core
Start your day at the Aurora History Museum (15051 E Alameda Pkwy), which opens at 9am and costs $5 for adults. Spend about an hour exploring local exhibits, then walk five minutes to the Aurora Municipal Center for a quick photo at the Great Lawn. Grab coffee at Corvus Coffee (1547 S Broadway) around 10:30am; it's a 10-minute walk from the museum.
π½οΈ Day 1 Afternoon: Stanley Marketplace
From downtown, take the R Line light rail to Central Park Station (15 minutes), then walk 10 minutes to Stanley Marketplace (2501 Dallas St). This converted aviation building houses over 50 local vendors, including Denver Biscuit Company and Sweet Cow Ice Cream. Lunch options range from $10 to $20, and the marketplace is open until 9pm on weekdays.
π Day 1 Evening: Olde Town Aurora
Head to Olde Town Aurora (bounded by E Colfax Ave and S Peoria St) for dinner at La Cueva (9742 E Colfax Ave), a local favorite for New Mexican cuisine with plates around $15. After dinner, catch a show at the Aurora Fox Arts Center (9900 E Colfax Ave); tickets typically start at $27. The area is a 15-minute drive from Stanley Marketplace, or take bus route 15 along Colfax.
π Day 2 Morning: Cherry Creek Trail
Rent a bike from Aurora Bike Share (stations near the Aurora Municipal Center) for $5 per hour and ride the Cherry Creek Trail east toward the Plains Conservation Center (21901 E Hampden Ave). The 12-mile route takes about 45 minutes one way and offers prairie views. Alternatively, drive 20 minutes and join a guided tour at 10am for $10 per person.
ποΈ Day 2 Afternoon: Southlands Mall
After your ride, drive 15 minutes to Southlands Mall (6155 S Main St) for lunch at one of the many restaurants, such as Ted's Montana Grill (main plates $15-$25). Spend the afternoon shopping or catch a movie at the AMC Southlands 16. The mall is open from 10am to 9pm, and parking is free.
π Day 2 Evening: Cultural District
Return to the Aurora Cultural District for an evening at the Aurora Symphony Orchestra (performs at the Aurora Fox Arts Center, 9900 E Colfax Ave); check their website for the 2026 schedule and ticket prices (usually $20-$40). Before the show, have dinner at the Summit Steakhouse (2700 S Havana St), a 10-minute drive away, where entrees run $25-$40. The area is well-lit and easy to navigate by car or rideshare.
π³ Day 3 Morning: Aurora Reservoir
Start early at the Aurora Reservoir (5800 S Powhaton Rd), which opens at 6am for fishing and boating; entry is $10 per vehicle. Rent a kayak from the marina for $20 per hour or hike the 8-mile trail around the water. Bring sunscreen and water, as shade is limited.
π Day 3 Afternoon: Local Eats
After working up an appetite, drive 15 minutes to the Havana Street corridor, known for its diverse food scene. Try the authentic tacos at Tacos Selene (15600 E 6th Ave) for around $3 each, or grab a burger at the Cherry Cricket (2641 E 2nd Ave) for about $15. Most spots are open for lunch from 11am to 2pm.
π Getting Around Aurora
Aurora is spread out, so a car is recommended for most itineraries; rideshares are readily available but can add up. The RTD light rail R Line connects downtown Aurora to Denver, and local buses like the 15 and 21 serve major corridors. Allow 20-30 minutes for most cross-town trips by car during non-rush hours.
Become a Local Guide
in Aurora to earn up to $50.00/hour by helping travelers that are interested in Aurora and want to connect to learn about the current climate, discover hidden gems, or get help planning their itinerary.
arrow_drop_up
7
arrow_drop_down
solid plan but i'd swap the reservoir for Cherry Creek State Park instead, closer & the prairie dog loop is fun
arrow_drop_up
15
arrow_drop_down
Appreciate the detail here, especially the bus route callouts. One thing worth adding: the R Line stops running around midnight on weekdays, so if you're catching a Fox show, plan the ride home in advance or budget for a rideshare. Also, Tacos Selene on 6th has a location closer to the reservoir on Quincy if you want to cut the drive.
arrow_drop_up
5
arrow_drop_down
Delaney Farm, the barn tour Saturdays.
arrow_drop_up
4
arrow_drop_down