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City in Illinois, United States
Photo: User: (WT-shared) Ethajek at wts wikivoyage, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Aurora is the second-largest city in the U.S. state of Illinois, located about 35 miles west of Chicago. It's at the very edge of Chicagoland and, situated on the Fox River, has many opportunities for urban, suburban, and rural recreation. Often overlooked, Aurora in fact has many surprisingly interesting attractions and a downtown unlike that of a typical suburb. It is probably best known for being the setting of the "Wayne's World" movies.
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Hundreds of sculptures of figures from African-American history displayed in the yard of Dr. Charles Smith's former home.
A collection of unique firefighting memorabilia set in Aurora's old Central Fire Station, built in 1894.
A living history museum of 19th century life spread out over 54 acres with a lake, ponds, a stream, and an arboretum.
The Aurora Public Art Commission hosts eight to 10 rotating exhibits displaying a full spectrum of innovative arts. The History Center has a collection of photographs, books, maps and other memorabilia. There is also a gift shop.
Built as a monument to Aurora's Civil War veterans in 1878, it's now a small structure next to the library that sticks out in its antiquity.
Home to "Broadway in the Burbs," this lovingly restored Art Deco movie palace presents live entertainment by world-class performers, plays, touring musicals and other special events.
There's a golf course, a swimming center operated by the Fox Valley Park District, a lake, some neat gardens, and a small free zoo filled specifically with North American animals.
A museum on the campus of Aurora University with 4 major exhibits on native peoples.
An engaging museum for kids that's rarely crowded. You can park in the nearby garage for free if the museum stamps your ticket.
A breathtaking example of whitewashed Indian temple craftsmanship. Don't worry about going and taking pictures - everyone else is doing it too.
An exhibit of Payton's entire life, from his football career (high school to pro, including his Super Bowl XX ring) to his auto racing and music interests.
Built in 1857, this Italianate-style house was the home to prominent merchant William Tanner and his family. The house features high ceilings, oak grained woodwork, ornate plaster decoration, and antique furnishings.
A private 4-year university with its main campus in Aurora, Illinois and the George Williams campus in Williams Bay, Wisconsin. Approximately 4000 students have a wide range of majors to choose from. The campus is also the home of the Schingoethe Center for Native American Cultures.
Bagels are their specialty, with at least one unique flavor always available with the rest of the regulars. Their coffees (they have Green Mountain) and sandwiches also shine.
formerly Walter Payton's Roundhouse
an international award-winning brewery with good American regional cuisine and pub food.
111 North Broadway. About 50 minutes away from the O'Hare International Airport and Chicago's Midway Airport, and 10 minutes away from the Aurora Municipal Airport. Has meeting facilities.
127 hotel guest rooms equipped with microwave and refrigerator, free internet, a 6,000 square feet Indoor Pool Complex, and five Meeting Rooms with Video Conferencing capability.
25 miles from O'Hare International Airport, 2002 Silver Hospitality Award winning hotel.qualityinn.com/hotel-aurora-illinois-IL068
By train
Aurora is part of Chicago's Metra commuter rail system, the last stop on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe line which leaves from Union Station in the Loop.
By bus
The Aurora train station is a local hub for Pace, the Chicagoland suburban bus service.
By plane
Aurora has a small municipal airport of its own, but the best way to go is to fly into one of the Chicago airports (O'Hare or Midway) and just take the train or a taxi to Aurora.
As is commonplace in the suburbs, the easiest way to get around is by car.
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Chicago · International · ORD
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