Aurora, Colorado
Aurora, Colorado: A Three-Day Weekend Wonderland
Immerse yourself in the charm and natural beauty of Aurora, Colorado over a three-day weekend. Famed for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant arts scene, Aurora offers a wide array of experiences, from wine tastings to wildlife viewing. Follow along with our handpicked itinerary to make the most out of your visit to this suburban haven.
Day 1: Immersion in Arts and Culture
Begin your journey by delving into Aurora’s thriving arts scene. Start at the Aurora Cultural Arts District (ACAD) (website), home to a vibrant collection of galleries, theaters, and studios. ACAD’s mission is to enhance the city’s cultural identity through art, music, theater, and dance. Don’t miss the “Art in Public Places” program, an impressive collection of public art installations, sculptures, and murals scattered throughout the district.
Next, head over to the Vintage Theatre (website). This intimate, 146-seat theater is known for its varied productions, from Broadway-style musicals to thought-provoking dramas. It’s a must-visit for anyone with a love for riveting performances and dynamic storytelling.
For lunch, visit Annette (website), an acclaimed restaurant located in the Stanley Marketplace. Annette serves wood-fired dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, coupled with a unique, globally inspired wine list.
After lunch, explore the rest of the Stanley Marketplace (website), a community hub housing over 50 independently owned Colorado businesses. Here, you’ll find everything from boutique shops to craft breweries.
Before ending your day, take a sunset stroll through Aurora’s Art in Public Places (website) exhibits, which are scattered throughout the city, turning mundane places into living art galleries.
Day 2: Engage with Nature and Wildlife
Aurora is home to over 100 parks, and Cherry Creek State Park (website) is one of the most impressive. Spend your morning hiking, bird-watching, or picnicking amidst the park’s 4,000 acres of natural beauty.
Afterward, visit The Plains Conservation Center (website), a nature preserve offering a glimpse into Colorado’s past. Explore pioneer homesteads, admire the native prairie ecosystem, and embark on a guided tour to see bison, pronghorn, and other wildlife.
For lunch, head over to Cuba Cuba Sandwicheria (website). This Cuban restaurant offers a variety of authentic sandwiches, bowls, and salads.
In the afternoon, make your way to Aurora Reservoir (website). Rent a paddleboard or kayak, or just enjoy the three-mile-long sandy beach.
Wrap up your day at Dry Dock Brewing Company (website), Aurora’s first brewery. Here, you can sample award-winning beers and take a behind-the-scenes brewery tour.
Day 3: Savor the Flavors of Aurora
Start your day at the Southlands (website), an outdoor lifestyle center featuring a variety of shops and restaurants. Enjoy a brunch at The Lost Cajun (website), which serves authentic Cajun cuisine.
Follow this with a visit to the Aurora History Museum (website), which offers a deep dive into Aurora’s history through engaging exhibits.
After, take part in a wine tasting at Wine Experience Café (website). Enjoy an extensive selection of wines from around the world, paired with exquisite culinary creations.
Finally, make dinner reservations at Cafe Paprika (website), a Moroccan and Mediterranean eatery known for its authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
Aurora offers a blend of urban and natural attractions that cater to diverse interests. From its rich cultural scene to its stunning wildlife, it promises a memorable weekend getaway.