Things to do in Aurora, Illinois
- Aurora was the first city in the United States to install an all-electric street lighting system in 1881.
- The city is famously depicted as the setting for the 1992 film 'Wayne's World'.
- Aurora spans parts of four different counties: Kane, DuPage, Kendall, and Will.
- The city's historical downtown area features a high concentration of buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and his associates.
- Aurora's motto, 'City of Lights,' originated from the massive arc lamps that were manufactured locally and used to illuminate the city center.
About Aurora, Illinois
Aurora is the second most populous city in Illinois, situated along the Fox River about 40 miles west of Chicago. Historically known as the City of Lights, it was one of the first municipalities in the United States to implement a comprehensive electric street lighting system in the 1880s. Visitors can explore local nature at the Phillips Park Zoo or visit the culturally significant Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple. The city's landscape is dotted with public green spaces such as McCullough Park and Austin Park, which provide recreational access along the riverfront.
Highlights of Aurora, Illinois
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Temples
This temple is a prominent cultural landmark built according to traditional Hindu architectural principles.
Zoos
This facility provides free access to view a variety of rescued animals and local wildlife exhibits.
Parks
This riverside park is a central hub for community festivals and hosts the historical Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall.
Parks
A neighborhood green space offering recreational fields and quiet walking paths for residents.
Parks
This park serves as a community gathering space dedicated to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Top things to do in Aurora, Illinois
The 53 highest-rated places in Aurora, Illinois, ranked by travellers.
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Temples
The Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple in Aurora, Illinois, serves as a prominent center for Hindu worship in the Mi...
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Aurora, Illinois on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Aurora, Illinois
Late spring to early autumn, as the temperate weather is ideal for visiting the city's numerous riverside parks and outdoor recreational facilities.
2-3 days, providing sufficient time to explore the riverfront, local parks, and cultural sites.
A car is essential for navigating the suburban sprawl, though the downtown area is walkable and served by Metra rail connections to Chicago.
Staying near the historic downtown district offers easy access to the Fox River trail system and transit, while areas near the western edge provide quieter, hotel-dense accommodations.
Mid-range; lodging and dining prices are generally more affordable than in central Chicago.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 53 curated attractions in and around Aurora, Illinois, ranked by traveller ratings.
Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple is the highest-rated place to visit in Aurora, Illinois right now.
The largest category is parks, with 34 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Bayonne, New Jersey, Downtown Los Angeles, Washington, D.C..
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