Aurora is a Home Rule Municipality city in the state of Colorado. It also happens to be one of the principal cities of the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO Metropolitan Statistical Area. In terms of population, it is third most populous city in the state of Colorado and has a charm of its own. Its many picturesque destinations coupled with thriving art scene and quintessential laid back ambiance make this city an affable place.
Image Courtesy:
commons.wikimedia.org
History
Aurora city came into being in the year 1880; Denver based businessman Donald Fletcher was it's founder. Aurora was a small city way back then. Donald Fletcher along with his another business partner had invested their hard earned money in huge acres of land in this city, hoping that their investment would double up in real estate boom in coming years. Their expectations, however, were severely dashed after Silver Crash of 1893, subsequently forcing them to leave the city and its people in lurch. These were among the darkest time in Aurora’s history. The city though braved all the odds and was able to stand on its feet in less than in decade.
In a symbolic gesture to signal a new beginning, the city was officially renamed as Aurora in 1906. Until then city was known by the name ‘Fletcher’. ‘People’ could not have thought of any other better name but ‘Aurora’, which stands for Roman Goddess of Dawn. By giving this name, people certainly wanted this city to make a new beginning after tumultuous period that it had been through during the last decade.
Aurora’s success in emerging from the shadow of its past also meant that people’s wishes and dream did came true. The city slowly but steadily thrived under the shadow of Denver.
Important Tourist Locations in Aurora
SouthlandsSouthlands is an outdoor shopping mall offering pretty much everything that people look for in a mall- shopping, dining, entertainment and lots of musical and other events. This outdoor shopping mall, in other words, is one of the most visited places in the city.
Address: 6155 South Main Street, Suite 260, Aurora, CO 80016,
Phone no: 303-627-5000
Website: http://www.shopsouthlands.com/Great Plains Park
A great fun place for kids with two awesome playgrounds along with a small splash water park. A must visit place if you are visiting Aurora city on family vacation.
Address: 20100 E Jewell Ave, Aurora, CO 80013, United States
Phone no: 1 303-739-7160
Aurora Reservoir
Image Source: commons.wikimedia.org This is a small beach but in Aurora city people flock here expecting a lot of fun and stress free time, this is what they exactly get – that too in great abundance. Fishing, boating, sunbathing, relaxing or simply losing into scenic views around this beach. It is like a small gem of a place that will certainly make up your day.
Address: 5800 S Powhaton Rd, Aurora, CO 80016, United States
Golf TrailsAurora city holds the unique distinction of being home to innumerable beautiful golf clubs. This is not just a awesome place for all die hard golfers, but for anyone who wants to have a great time while learning the nuances of golf. The expansive patches of lush greenery overlooking the mountains and hills will make your experience surreal. Local golf clubs here offer short as well as long term golf courses.
Aurora History Museum
If you have interest in history of Colorado’s third largest city then hop in this museum that touches on the topics of history and decorative exhibits. Almost all the artifacts kept here are very intriguing and engrossing. Do not forget to check out old Colfax Trolley Car, which is a new addition to this museum.
Address: 15051 E Alameda Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80012, United States
Phone no: 1 303-739-6660
Aurora Sports Park
If today Aurora city is recognized as a sports town in the United States, it's mainly because of Aurora Sports Park . It 220 acre site which hosts local, state and national competitions, featuring 23 full sized soccer fields and 12 baseball/softball fields. It’s a must visit destination for any sports buff.
Address: 19300 E Colfax Ave, Aurora, CO 80011, United States
Phone no: 1 303-739-7000
Arapahoe Park
This is Aurora’s most popular horse racing park. If gambling and horse racing is something that intrigues you, then this place is just right for you. Arapahoe Park also hosts many musical and non-musical events throughout the year. The must visit place in Aurora city where you will have blended pack of action and adventure both.
Address: 26000 E Quincy Ave, Aurora, CO 80016, United States
Phone no: 1 303-690-2400
Plains Conservation Center Image Source: commons.wikimedia.org
This is a small conservation center for wildlife animals and you can see birds in their natural settings. This is another place amazing place for kids to be at for educational and fun activities, especially if you want to encourage their interest in wildlife and nature.
Address: 21901 E. Hampden Ave, Aurora, CO 80013
Phone no: 303-693-3621
Website: http://www.plainscenter.org
People and Culture of Aurora
Aurora’s demography is dominated by white population making up to 61% of total population of the city.. The rest of the local population is made of African American and Asian population. There are approximately 30,000 Ethiopians and Eritreans refugees living in the Denver-Aurora area. Besides, there is also sizable presence of Nepalese. Aurora is a lively city with rich art and culture surely makes it distinct. People here have immense interest in theater and wide range of music – including classical music. Last but not the least, Aurora’s dynamic and passionate sports culture find immense appreciation even outside Denver.
Time Zone and Dialing Code of Aurora
Aurora City falls in Mountain Time Zone: UTC-07:00. The Summer Daylight Saving Time (DST) is Pacific Daylight Time is MDT (UTC-6).
Zip Codes: 80010-80019, 80040-80047 (80045 PO Boxes), 80137, 80247[6]
Phone codes: Area Code 303 and 720, International Code: 1
Best Time to Visit Aurora
Aurora city can be visited any time of the year as it's enjoys sunshine almost throughout the year. However, if you don’t want to face inconvenience of extra humidity, then avoid traveling from June to August.
Annual events and festivals in Aurora
Aurora Arts FestivalKidSpree Festival Punkin Chunkin Festival For more information on forthcoming festivals and events please visit:
http://www.aurorachamber.org/.
Important Locations Map Guide of Aurora
