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Aurora is the second-largest city in Illinois, about 40 miles west of Chicago on the Fox River. Settlers arrived in the 1830s, and the town grew into a railroad and manufacturing center as the home of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad shops. In 1881 it became one of the first cities in the United States to light its streets entirely with electricity, earning the nickname the City of Lights.
Today Aurora has about 180,000 residents and a downtown built around Stolp Island in the middle of the Fox River. Its centerpiece is the Paramount Theatre, a restored 1931 art deco movie palace that now runs one of the largest subscription theater programs in the country. Riverfront paths, the Hollywood Casino and historic buildings like the Leland Tower line the river.
Aurora also has excellent parks. Phillips Park includes a free zoo, sunken gardens and lakes, and Blackberry Farm recreates a pioneer village on the city's west side. The Fox River Trail runs north and south along the river, SciTech Hands On Museum entertains families, and the Bruce Goff-designed Ford House is a striking piece of mid-century architecture.
A beautifully restored 1931 Art Deco theater on the Fox River in downtown Aurora, staging Broadway-style musicals with its own professional company, as well as concerts and comedy. It is one of the busiest subscription theaters in the region. Book ahead and arrive early to see the ornate interior.
A small island in the Fox River at the heart of downtown Aurora, packed with historic commercial buildings, including the Paramount Theatre and Leland Tower. Restaurants and bars line the streets. Walk the bridges and riverbanks, and see the historic architecture.
A free zoo in Aurora's Phillips Park with animals such as mountain lions, wolves, bald eagles and farm animals, along with a visitor center, gardens and lakes. The park also has a golf course and a sunken garden. It is great for families, and parking and admission are free.
A riverfront park in downtown Aurora with an outdoor music pavilion, lawns, a walking path and views of the Fox River. It hosts summer concerts and festivals. Check the summer schedule, bring a chair or blanket, and enjoy dinner downtown before a show.
A long paved trail following the Fox River north from Aurora through several towns, passing dams, forest preserves and riverside parks. It is popular for biking and walking. Start in downtown Aurora, bring water and be ready for a long scenic ride along the river.
A living history park in Aurora with a recreated pioneer village, historic buildings, a carousel, a train ride and museum exhibits on early life in the Fox Valley. Costumed interpreters show crafts and chores. It is open in the warm season and is great for families.
A hands-on science museum for children in a historic downtown Aurora post office building, with exhibits on physics, light, sound and electricity. Kids can experiment with interactive displays. Check hours, which change with the season.
A museum in Aurora's 1894 Central Fire Station with antique fire engines, horse-drawn equipment, firefighting gear and exhibits on the history of firefighting. It is a fun stop for families with young kids. Admission is low; check open days ahead.
A 1928 skyscraper on Stolp Island, once the tallest building in Illinois outside Chicago, with a distinctive stepped tower. It now has apartments, and its rooftop sign is a downtown landmark. See it from the riverbank for the best view of the tower.
An unusual 1949 private house designed by architect Bruce Goff, with a dome-shaped roof and walls of coal and glass, set in an Aurora neighborhood. It is listed on the National Register. It is a private home, so view only from the street and respect the residents.
A casino in Aurora with slot machines, table games, restaurants and bars, long a major draw on the downtown riverfront. Check its current location before going. Guests must be 21 or older to enter the gaming floor, and parking is available in nearby garages.
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