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 68 highest-rated places in Aurora, Illinois, ranked by travellers.
1
Temples
The Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple in Aurora, Illinois, serves as a prominent center for Hindu worship in the Mi...
2
Parks
Raging Waves is Illinois' largest waterpark, spanning 58 acres in Yorkville. The facility features over 30 waterslides,...
3
Zoos
Phillips Park Zoo is a free-admission facility situated within the historic 325-acre Phillips Park in Aurora, Illinois....
4
Parks
Fabyan Forest Preserve is defined by the 1850s Dutch windmill, restored to working order, situated along the Fox River i...
5
Parks
Phillips Park Zoo is a free, municipally-operated facility located within the 325-acre Phillips Park in Aurora, Illinois...
6
Venues
Northwestern Medicine Field is a 10,900-seat minor league baseball stadium located in Geneva, Illinois, serving as the h...
7
Parks
Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area is a 1,350-acre preserve situated along the Fox River in Kendall County, Ill...
8
Parks
Peck Farm Park is a 385-acre site in Geneva, Illinois, functioning as both a recreational space and a center for environ...
9
Amusement parks
Sugar Grove Family Fun Center is an outdoor amusement venue located in Sugar Grove, Illinois, focused on classic recreat...
10
Parks
Red Oak Nature Center is situated on a 40-acre site along the banks of the Fox River in North Aurora, Illinois. The faci...
11
Parks
Oakhurst Forest Preserve is a 55-acre wildlife habitat in Aurora, Illinois, centered around a significant lake and marsh...
12
Parks
Bicentennial Riverfront Park serves as a central recreational hub located directly along the banks of the Fox River in d...
13
Parks
Hudson Crossing Park is a riverfront recreational space situated along the banks of the Fox River in Oswego, Illinois. T...
14
Parks
Splash Country Water Park is a municipal aquatic facility located on the campus of the Vaughan Athletic Center in Aurora...
15
Parks
Island Park is an island destination located in the middle of the Fox River in Geneva, Illinois, accessible via a dedica...
16
Museums
Fabyan Villa Museum is a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed residence located within the Kane County Forest Preserve in Geneva,...
17
Venues
The Batavia Fine Arts Centre is a 977-seat professional performance venue located on the campus of Batavia High School i...
18
Places of interest
19
Parks
20
Parks
21
Parks
22
Parks
23
Parks
24
Historical places
25
Parks
26
Museums
27
Parks
28
Museums
29
Parks
30
Parks
Explore by category
Jump straight to what you're into.
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 68 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 42 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Downtown Los Angeles, Bayonne, New Jersey, Washington, D.C..
Explore more of United States of America
Other cities ranked by number of curated places.
