Aurora IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Aurora, Illinois.
1. Chicago Premium Outlets
SHOPPER'S PARADISE
Chicago Premium Outlets is a premier shopping destination in Aurora offering discounted prices on designer brands. Visitors can explore over 170 stores featuring luxury and mainstream retailers in an outdoor mall setting. The outlet mall provides amenities such as dining options, comfortable seating areas, and special events throughout the year.
2. Paramount Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Paramount Theatre is a beautiful 1,843-seat historic venue at the heart of Aurora's thriving arts scene. This award-winning theater produces breathtaking Broadway Series performances with shows built from the ground up right in Aurora. The Paramount has earned numerous Jeff Award nominations and wins, making it one of the top producing theaters in the Chicago theater landscape.
3. Blackberry Farm
LIVING HISTORY FARM
Blackberry Farm offers visitors a charming glimpse into pioneer life with its living history demonstrations and historic buildings. The family-friendly attraction features a carousel, train ride, and various seasonal activities throughout the year. Visitors can also enjoy peaceful pond settings, picnic areas, and special events that celebrate the agricultural heritage of the region.
4. Phillips Park Zoo
FREE WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Phillips Park Zoo is a compact, free-admission zoo located within the larger Phillips Park in Aurora. Visitors can observe a variety of North American wildlife including wolves, otters, mountain lions, and various birds of prey. The zoo provides educational signage and occasional keeper talks, making it an excellent family-friendly destination year-round.
5. RiverEdge Park
OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
RiverEdge Park is Aurora's premier outdoor concert venue situated along the scenic Fox River. The park hosts a variety of music festivals, concerts, and community events throughout the summer months. Visitors can enjoy performances while relaxing on the lawn with views of the river, creating a perfect backdrop for summer entertainment.
6. Two Brothers Roundhouse
HISTORIC BREWERY RESTAURANT
Two Brothers Roundhouse is a unique dining and entertainment venue housed in a historic limestone railroad roundhouse built in 1856. The establishment features handcrafted beer from the Two Brothers Brewing Company alongside a full menu of contemporary American cuisine. Visitors can appreciate the architectural significance of the building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, while enjoying live music and events throughout the year.
7. Fox Valley Mall
REGIONAL SHOPPING CENTER
Fox Valley Mall is a spacious indoor shopping center offering a wide range of retail stores and dining options. The mall features major department stores alongside specialty retailers, creating a comprehensive shopping experience for visitors. Throughout the year, the mall hosts special events and seasonal attractions that appeal to shoppers of all ages.
8. Phillips Park Visitors Center and Mastodon Gallery
PREHISTORIC DISCOVERY SHOWCASE
Phillips Park Visitors Center and Mastodon Gallery showcases fascinating mastodon bones that were unearthed in the park during a 1934 Civil Works Administration Project. The gallery provides visitors with an educational look at prehistoric life that once roamed the Aurora region. Interactive displays and informative exhibits make this free attraction an interesting stop for history and science enthusiasts.
9. Hollywood Casino Aurora
RIVERSIDE GAMING ENTERTAINMENT
Hollywood Casino Aurora offers an exciting gaming experience with over 1,000 slot machines and table games including blackjack, mini-baccarat, roulette, and craps. The casino features a sportsbook where visitors can place bets on their favorite sporting events. Multiple dining options are available on-site, making it a complete entertainment destination in downtown Aurora.
10. Aurora Regional Fire Museum
FIREFIGHTING HISTORY EXHIBITION
The Aurora Regional Fire Museum preserves and celebrates the rich history of firefighting in Aurora and the surrounding region. Housed in a historic fire station, the museum displays antique fire engines, equipment, and memorabilia dating back to the 19th century. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to learn about fire safety and the evolution of firefighting techniques through engaging hands-on experiences.
11. First Fridays in Downtown Aurora
MONTHLY ART WALK
First Fridays in Downtown Aurora is a popular monthly event featuring pop-up art galleries and live music throughout the downtown district. Visitors can explore dozens of venues while enjoying special exhibits, performances, and activities that showcase local creative talent. The event has become a cornerstone of Aurora's growing reputation as an arts and culture hub in the Fox River valley.
12. Paramount School of the Arts
PERFORMING ARTS EDUCATION
Paramount School of the Arts offers comprehensive performing arts education for students of all ages in Aurora. The school provides classes in theater, music, dance, and visual arts taught by experienced professionals. Throughout the year, the school produces student showcases and performances that highlight the talents of local artists and aspiring performers.
13. Copley Theatre
INTIMATE DRAMATIC PERFORMANCES
Copley Theatre hosts the Paramount Theatre's BOLD Series featuring thought-provoking dramatic works in an intimate setting. The theater provides audiences with an up-close experience of contemporary plays and challenging theatrical productions. Its smaller size compared to the main Paramount Theatre allows for experimental and innovative performances that complement Aurora's diverse cultural offerings.
14. Aurora Reservoir
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Aurora Reservoir is a breathtaking outdoor destination perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking water-based recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking along scenic trails that showcase the natural beauty of the area. The reservoir provides a peaceful retreat from urban life while offering amenities for day-use visitors and outdoor adventurers alike.
15. Fox River Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATH
The Fox River Trail winds through Aurora along the picturesque Fox River, offering a paved path for walking, running, and cycling. The trail connects various parks and attractions while providing beautiful views of the river and surrounding natural landscape. Visitors can enjoy seasonal wildlife sightings and access to riverside amenities along this scenic recreational corridor that stretches beyond Aurora's city limits.