Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you uncover hidden gems and iconic sights in Aurora, ensuring seamless communication while exploring 10 must-visit places that showcase the best of the destination’s culture, landscapes, and history.
Aurora sits just outside Denver, but this sprawling city of 400,000 has its own identity. The high-desert landscape transitions into prairie, with the distant Rockies beckoning on the horizon. In this guide, we’ll unpack the top things to do in Aurora Colorado, from golfing pristine courses to hiking scenic trails.
1. Tee Off at Award-Winning Golf Courses in Aurora
Aurora boasts eight municipal golf courses set amid stunning mountain vistas. Here are some standouts:
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Saddle Rock Golf Course: This 18-hole, par-72 course stretches over 7,351 yards across rolling terrain with numerous water hazards.
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Murphy Creek Golf Course: Designed by acclaimed architect Ken Kavanaugh, this semi-private course sprawls across prairie grasslands.
Course |
Yardage |
Par |
Amenities |
---|---|---|---|
Saddle Rock |
7,351 | 72 |
Driving range, putting green, lessons |
Murphy Creek |
7,456 | 72 |
Practice facilities, bar & grill |
Insider tip: Book your tee times online in advance. Saddle Rock fills up quickly on weekends.
2. Spot Bison at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
Once a chemical weapons manufacturing site, this 15,000-acre expanse of prairie has been reclaimed by nature. It’s now one of the top places to visit in Aurora for wildlife viewing. Traverse the 9-mile Wildlife Drive loop to spot bison, deer, and over 280 bird species.
Tip: Stop by the visitor center to pick up a map and chat with rangers about recent animal sightings. In October, you might catch the elk bugling at sunrise.
3. Take a Day Trip to the Things to Do Near Aurora CO
Aurora’s central location makes it an ideal launchpad for exploring the Front Range. Here are some top day trips:
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Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre (24 miles): This iconic concert venue is carved out of 300-foot sandstone monoliths. Hike the trails by day, and catch a show at sunset.
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Boulder (41 miles): Home to the University of Colorado, this vibrant college town has a quaint pedestrian mall lined with bookshops and cafes. Hike the Flatirons for aerial views.
Insider tip: Pack layers. Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly once the sun goes down. A reliable international roaming plan ensures you can check the forecast on the go.
4. Browse the Stanley Marketplace
This 1950s aviation factory has been transformed into a trendy food hall and retail space. Grab an espresso at Logan House Coffee, peruse vinyl at Wax Trax Records, and catch an indie flick at the Stanley Film Center. With over 50 businesses under one roof, the Marketplace is one of the top attractions in Aurora Colorado.
Tip: Visit on a Friday between 4:00-8:00pm to coincide with the Aurora Arts Festival. Over 100 local artisans showcase handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, and more.
5. Catch a Show at the Historic Fox Theatre
Built in 1946, the Fox is an Art Deco gem in the heart of Aurora. The theatre hosts a diverse lineup of concerts, comedy shows, and film screenings. Recent acts have included Melissa Etheridge and the Second City comedy troupe.
Insider tip: Snag tickets to the monthly Aurora Symphony Orchestra performances for a classy date night. Linger afterward for a nightcap at the Vintage Theatre next door.
6. Paddle Around the Aurora Reservoir
The 800-acre Aurora Reservoir is a summertime oasis. Rent kayaks and paddleboards from the marina, or cast a line for trout and bass (a Colorado fishing permit is required). On sweltering days, the sandy swim beach is the place to cool off.
Activity |
Cost |
Time |
---|---|---|
Kayak rental |
$20/hour |
2 hours |
Paddleboard rental |
$25/hour |
1 hour |
Fishing permit |
$11 for a 1-day pass |
Half-day |
Note: The reservoir is closed on Wednesdays. Beat the weekend crowds by visiting on a Thursday or Friday.
7. Stroll Through the Gardens on Spring Creek
These 10-acre demonstration gardens showcase native High Plains plants like penstemon and yucca. Wind through the ornamental grass garden, and relax in the shade of the pergola. Check the garden’s online calendar for hands-on workshops on pruning and xeriscaping.
8. Bike the High Line Canal Trail
Once an irrigation channel, the 71-mile High Line Canal Trail is now a beloved greenway. The crushed gravel path weaves through neighborhoods and open space, making it one of the best places to go in Aurora Colorado for a scenic cycle.
Insider tip: Rent bikes from Pedego Electric Bikes in Southlands Mall. The shop offers guided tours and will deliver rental bikes anywhere in Aurora.
9. Tour the Aurora History Museum
Delve into Aurora’s pioneer past at this free museum on the Municipal Center campus. Exhibits span from the town’s 1891 founding to the present day. Highlights include a 1920s trolley car and a WWII-era Quonset hut.
Note: The museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays. Visit on the third Tuesday of the month for free family craft activities.
10. Sample Craft Beer Along the Colfax Ale Trail
Colfax Avenue is the longest commercial street in the U.S., as well as a burgeoning brewery district. Download the Colfax Ale Trail passport, and collect stamps at 10 participating taprooms. Standouts include FlyteCo Brewing (set in a former Air Force flight simulator) and Bent Barley Brewing Company.
Insider tip: Designate a driver or hail a ride with a tap.
Explore Aurora Seamlessly with Airtel
With Airtel’s robust international roaming network, you can easily book an Uber to ferry you between breweries.
From pristine golf greens to historic museums, Aurora offers a plethora of places to explore. Pack your hiking boots and prep your palate – an adventure awaits in this vibrant Colorado city. Before you embark, consider investing in a reliable data plan to keep you connected. With Airtel’s international roaming, you can access maps, book tickets, and make reservations on the go, ensuring a seamless travel experience. Adventure is calling in Aurora – will you answer?