Aurora, Illinois is an exciting city located in the heart of the Midwest. Home to a thriving downtown and many unique attractions, Aurora is a great place to explore and have fun. Whether you’re looking for a night out on the town, a relaxing weekend away, or a day filled with activities, you’ll find something to do in Aurora, IL.
From outdoor recreation to cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Read on to find out the best things to do in Aurora, IL.
Chicago Premium Outlets
The Chicago Premium Outlets offer an amazing shopping experience for those looking for great deals in Aurora, IL. Located just twenty minutes outside of downtown Chicago, the outlet mall features more than 160 stores including top brands such as Michael Kors, Nike, Gap, and Coach.
With such a wide variety of stores and great deals, it’s no wonder why the Chicago Premium Outlets are one of the most popular places to shop in Aurora. Whether you’re looking for a new wardrobe [1], a gift for someone special, or just browsing for fun, the Chicago Premium Outlets are the perfect place for all of your shopping needs.
Blackberry Farm
Blackberry Farm is a popular attraction in Aurora, IL. Located in the city’s Blackberry Creek neighborhood, this working farm offers a variety of activities for the whole family. Visitors can take part in guided tours of the farm, interact with the farm animals, pick fresh fruits and vegetables from the fields, or enjoy a picnic in the outdoor pavilion.
The farm also hosts special events throughout the year, including harvest festivals, corn mazes, and farmer’s markets. Blackberry Farm is a great way to spend the day outdoors and learn more about life on a farm.
Paramount Theater
The Paramount Theater in Aurora is a beautiful historic venue that has been entertaining guests since 1931. This stunning art deco theater features a grand lobby, luxurious seating, and a state-of-the-art sound system. Take your date to the Paramount Theater to see a thrilling live performance.
Observe a wide variety of performances, from movies to dance recitals to Broadway shows to stand-up comedy to comedy shows to concerts to musicals to movie screenings. The Paramount Theater also offers private rental packages for special occasions, such as weddings and corporate events.
Phillips Park Zoo
The Phillips Park Zoo has been an exciting animal attraction since 1915. Located in the city’s beautiful Phillips Park, the zoo features a variety of animals, including tigers, lions, wolves, bears, and birds. Visitors can take part in educational programs, enjoy a picnic lunch in the outdoor pavilion, or even stop by the petting zoo.
The zoo also offers a variety of special events throughout the year, such as a trick-or-treat event in October and a Christmas lights show in December. With its large selection of animals and unique events, the Phillips Park Zoo is a great place to visit for an educational and fun day out.
SciTech Hands-On Museum
The SciTech Hands-On Museum is the perfect place for a fun, interactive learning experience. This science and technology museum features more than 200 interactive exhibits that are designed to captivate young minds. There are plenty of hands-on activities for visitors of all ages to explore, from tinkering with robots to taking a virtual tour of the solar system.
The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and special events, such as birthday parties, school field trips, and summer camps. With its exciting and engaging exhibits, the SciTech Hands-On Museum is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple
The Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple is a beautiful Hindu temple located in Aurora, IL. This stunning temple was built in 1986 and is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, commonly known as Balaji. The temple is home to a variety of deities, including Lord Rama and Goddess Lakshmi. Visitors can enjoy a variety of special events, such as arati ceremonies, religious discourses, and cultural programs.
The temple also offers a variety of services, including puja ceremonies, Vedic astrology readings, and yoga classes. With its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere, the Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple is a great place to explore and experience the beauty of Hindu culture.
Abbey Farms
Abbey Farms was established in 1949 and is a destination that is enjoyable at any time of year. Located on the grounds of a historic monastery, the farm features activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Take a step back in time as you explore the historic Abbey buildings, or take a tractor-drawn tour of the farm’s picturesque grounds.
Enjoy a variety of seasonal activities, such as pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and hayrides. The farm also hosts special events throughout the year, such as music festivals and beer tastings. With its charming atmosphere and fun activities, Abbey Farms is the perfect place for a family outing or a romantic date.
Splash Country
Splash Country is a great place to beat the summer heat which makes it one of the top summer destinations in Aurora. This outdoor water park features a variety of slides, pools, and attractions that are perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Take the family on a thrilling ride down the Black Hole or speed down the Twister Slide.
Little ones can enjoy the kids’ area, which features several age-appropriate slides, a lazy river, and a giant tipping bucket. The park also offers a variety of dining options, from quick snacks to full meals. Spend a fantastic day at this water park with your family, friends, or that special someone in your life.
RiverEdge Park
RiverEdge Park is a scenic outdoor venue located on the banks of the Fox River and the downtown Aurora skyline. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax or a place to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, RiverEdge Park is the perfect place for you. The park offers a variety of amenities, including a playground, walking trails, and a fishing pier.
The park also hosts many exciting events throughout the year, from outdoor concerts to festivals to movie nights. With its stunning views and variety of activities, RiverEdge Park is the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors in Aurora.
Waubonsie Lake Park
Waubonsie Lake Park is a popular destination for visitors to Aurora, Illinois, located just north of downtown. This beautiful park features a large lake, hiking trails, and plenty of recreation areas for all ages. The park’s main attraction is the lake, which is stocked with bass, bluegill, catfish, and more.
Visitors can take part in fishing and boating, or explore the many hiking trails in the park. Other amenities include picnic areas, playgrounds, tennis courts, and a disc golf course. With its beautiful scenery and variety of activities, Waubonsie Lake Park is the perfect place to spend an afternoon in Aurora.
Aurora Regional Fire Museum
The Aurora Regional Fire Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of firefighting in the city and is a great way to learn about the brave men and women who have served in the Aurora Fire Department over the years. The museum, housed in a historic building constructed in 1984, is home to numerous engaging and informative displays.
The museum houses a variety of artifacts, including firefighting equipment, photographs, and documents. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the museum and view the displays of firefighting equipment and memorabilia from the past. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs, such as fire safety classes and school field trips.
NV Massage Foot Spa
One of the best things to do in Aurora is to stop by NV Massage Foot Spa. It’s an Asian spa with top-notch facilities for maintaining physical well-being. This tranquil spa offers a variety of services to help you unwind, including reflexology, Swedish and deep tissue massage, and hot stone massage.
The spa also offers a variety of spa packages, such as the signature NV Deluxe Package, which includes a hot stone massage and a full body massage with aromatherapy oils. In addition, NV Massage Foot Spa also offers a variety of facial treatments and waxing services.
Mastodon Lake and Trail
At the heart of Phillips Park is the scenic Mastodon Lake and Trail, an ideal location for a day out with loved ones. This scenic lake and trail are perfect for a day of exploration. The lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including beavers, deer, and a variety of fish. Visitors can explore the lake and its surrounding areas on foot or by kayak.
The trail is also a great place to go hiking, with options ranging from easy walking trails to more challenging hikes. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or an adventurous hike, Mastodon Lake and Trail has something for everyone.
Banana Split Inc.
Banana Split Inc. is a one-of-a-kind ice cream shop located in Aurora, IL. This fun and quirky shop offers numerous flavors of delicious homemade ice cream, as well as vegan and gluten-free options. They also offer a variety of sundaes, shakes, and floats, so you can customize your treat however you like.
If you’re looking for something more than just ice cream, Banana Split Inc also offers a wide selection of snacks, such as candy, popcorn, and pretzels. With its fun atmosphere and delicious treats, Banana Split Inc. is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day.
Lindt Chocolate Shop
Since its founding in 1845, Lindt Chocolate Shop has supplied customers with the highest quality Swiss chocolates. This unique shop features an array of delectable treats, from truffles and bars to gift baskets and cakes. At the Lindt Chocolate Shop, you can find a variety of flavors, including dark, milk, and white chocolate.
They also offer special seasonal items, such as Easter eggs and Halloween-themed chocolates. Whether you’re looking for a special gift or just a sweet treat for yourself, the Lindt Chocolate Shop has something for everyone. Stop by today and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Vaughan Aquatic Center and Indoor Water Park
There is no better way to spend a day in Aurora than at the Vaughan Aquatic Center and Indoor Water Park, especially if you consider lounging by the pool to be the definition of a good time. This state-of-the-art center features a wide variety of attractions, from thrilling slides and water rides to a lazy river and a children’s play area.
The center also offers a variety of activities, such as swimming lessons, scuba diving lessons, and water aerobics classes. With its exciting attractions and activities, the Vaughan Aquatic Center and Indoor Water Park is sure to provide hours of fun for the whole family.
Sport Zone
Sport Zone should be at the top of your list of things to do in Aurora if you want to have a truly memorable day with your loved ones. This family-friendly entertainment center features a variety of activities, including go-karts, laser tag, and mini golf. Sports fans can also practice their skills in batting cages and soccer arenas.
In addition, the center features a wide selection of arcade games, from classic favorites to the most recent releases. After you’ve worked up an appetite, you can refuel at the onsite restaurant, which serves a variety of tasty snacks and meals. You may bring the whole family here and have a blast without limits. Bring a camera so you can record all the special moments.
Luigi’s Pizza
Luigi’s Pizza is a beloved pizzeria in downtown Aurora, IL. Serving up delicious Italian-style pizza since 1981, Luigi’s is a local favorite. After relocating into a former supermarket in 1999, the name of the restaurant was changed to Luigi’s Pizza and Fun Center. In 2005, a massive laser tag was built, and in 2010, four lanes of mini-bowling were included.
More than fifty bottled and draft beers, as well as a broad selection of wine, are available at the full-service bar. A total of three hundred guests can be accommodated in Luigi’s Pizza’s four function rooms.
Oakhurst Forest Preserve
Oakhurst Forest Preserve is a hidden gem in Aurora, IL. This expansive preserve offers visitors a chance to connect with nature and explore the many trails that wind through the park. Oakhurst Forest Preserve is a great place to go for a relaxing walk or a vigorous hike. The park features beautiful forests, meadows, and wetlands, along with a variety of wildlife, from songbirds to deer.
The preserve also offers a variety of recreational activities, such as bird watching, fishing, and picnicking. With its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, Oakhurst Forest Preserve is the perfect place to spend the day in Aurora.
Saddle Up Saloon and Dancehall
If you’re looking for a great place to kick up your heels and have a good time, look no further than Saddle Up Saloon and Dancehall. This unique bar features a variety of entertainment options, including live music, line dancing, and an outdoor patio. The saloon also offers karaoke, pool tables, and a variety of video games.
The bar features a full menu of pub favorites, including burgers, wings, and sandwiches. Enjoy a cold beer and some great food while listening to live music or dancing the night away. With its friendly atmosphere and fun activities, Saddle Up Saloon and Dancehall is the perfect place to enjoy a night out in Aurora.
Fox Valley Mall
Fox Valley Mall is the perfect place to shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment in Aurora. This premier shopping destination offers over 130 stores, including a variety of specialty stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. The mall features a number of popular retail stores, such as Macy’s, JCPenney, and Best Buy. Dining options range from fast food to fine dining, with options such as P.F. Chang’s, California Pizza Kitchen, and the Cheesecake Factory.
Plus, the mall also features a movie theater, an ice-skating rink, and a mini-golf course. With its wide selection of stores, restaurants, and entertainment, Fox Valley Mall is the perfect place for a day of shopping and fun.
Dead Haunted House
If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, then you need to check out the Dead Haunted House. This haunted house is one of the most popular in the area and has been providing thrills and chills for over 20 years. Guests will have to make their way through a variety of eerie and terrifying scenarios, from dark mazes to creepy clowns to terrifying monsters lurking in the shadows.
The Dead Haunted House offers a variety of activities to choose from, such as a 3D haunted house experience, a zombie laser tag game, and a virtual reality escape room.
Conclusion
Aurora, IL is a great city for exploring and having fun. There’s something for everyone, from outdoor recreation and cultural attractions to shopping and dining. Whether you’re looking for a night out on the town, a relaxing weekend away, or a day filled with activities, you’ll find something to do in Aurora.
From the Chicago Premium Outlets to the Blackberry Farm to the Paramount Theater to the SciTech Hands-On Museum, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to do and places to explore in this vibrant city.
