Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Aurora, Illinois. #Top Attractions

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Organizing a trip to Aurora, Illinois, right now? For the best travel experience in Aurora, Illinois, check out our curated list of things to do in Aurora, Illinois, and the best places to visit in Aurora, Illinois, below. Wondrous Drifter is a Web 3.0 startup in the tourism industry that aims to disrupt the industry as a whole by utilizing Web 3.0 technologies.

Abbey Farms

Abbey Farms , Aurora
Abbey Farms, Aurora / Underway In Ireland / Flickr

Folks! Bring it on. We’ve picked the best location to ensure you have an enjoyable day!

Since 1949, Abbey Farms in Aurora, Illinois, has been an excellent family-friendly agritourism destination.

It is a farm near Aurora, Illinois, operated by the monks of Marmion Abbey and is operated on a not-for-profit basis for the benefit of the community.

At almost 300 acres, Abbey Farms is one of the state’s oldest working farms available to guests.

The modern Abbey Farms provides a variety of fun activities that visitors of all ages may enjoy throughout the year.

Summer is a great time to take advantage of local farms’ seasonal crops, which you may sample and purchase.

You can either cut your own Christmas tree during winter or choose one already cut down.

You may select your own pumpkins and gaze at the beautiful scenery during the fall.

Besides the craft beer barn, the farm offers an assortment of baked products and cider for your enjoyment.

This is a terrific option for families looking for a fun activity that will keep everyone entertained for several hours when visiting the city.

Address:850 Butterfield Rd, Aurora, IL 60502-8609 United States

Aurora Regional Fire Museum

Aurora Regional Fire Museum, Aurora, Illinois
Aurora Regional Fire Museum is one of the best places to go in Aurora, Illinois

Who would have guessed that learning about the past could be so fun?

The Aurora Regional Fire Museum welcomes all ages and events. It serves as a hub for community engagement, educational opportunities, and reminiscence.

In addition to preserving and exhibiting the artifacts and history of fire departments in Aurora and the surrounding region, the Museum also educates visitors on fire safety and prevention and works to promote its mission.

The display shows how firefighters’ equipment and technology have evolved through time.

Driving a fire truck simulator and learning to utilize fire engine horns and sirens are available at Aurora Regional Fire Museum.

Visitors will get the opportunity to view a leather fire bucket that dates back to the early 1800s. 

An interactive Children’s Discovery Room and other displays relating to Aurora’s firefighting in the surrounding area may also be found there.

Those interested in the history of Aurora or firefighting really need to make the trip.

Address: 53 N Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505, United States

Aurora Tap House

Aurora Tap House, Aurora, Illinois
Aurora Tap House is one of the best places to go in Aurora, Illinois

Meet up with your pals at Aurora Tap House for your next get-together!

Chris Gonzalez and Dan Ardelean are the owners of this longest bar in Aurora. 

This place has been serving customers regularly since it opened in 2018. It is also one of the best bars and lounges in Aurora.

Various evening entertainment options are available at the bar, including karaoke, DJs, and live sports events. 

At Aurora Tap House, you’ll see that it has become a popular venue for parties and other special occasions.

Drinks of all kinds, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, are available at the Aurora Tap House.

They serve pizza, corn dogs, pretzels, and other treats to make your stay even more enjoyable.

You may also watch sporting events on one of the many large-screen TVs spanning the length of the bar.

If you get there, you may catch live performances by DJs and bands on Friday and Saturday nights.

Address:134 W Downer Pl, Aurora, IL 60506, United States

Discover Illinois on your next vacation! Choose your travel destination here on our travel guides for Naperville and Joliet. Don’t miss out on this amazing state. Check out the entertaining things to do in Naperville, Illinois, and things to do in Joliet, Illinois

Bad Axe Throwing

Bad Axe Throwing, Aurora, Illinois
Bad Axe Throwing is one of the best places to go in Aurora, Illinois

The Bad Axe Throwing is one of the best things to do in Illinois.

Watch out! Make sure you’re aiming toward the proper spot!

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity to add to your Aurora itinerary, ax throwing is the way.

Bad Axe Throwing is a great place to improve your ax-throwing skills, whether you’re a newbie or a pro.

Guests may count on their ace ax-throwing instructors to guide them along the way.

As beginners or experienced ax throwers, their professional coaches can help you get the most out of your time with them!

During the winter months, Bad Axe Throwing offers leagues where you participate against competitors worldwide.

If you’re searching for a unique way to celebrate a special occasion, such as a birthday or a date, Bad Axe Throwing can help.

Beer and wine are available for guests to sip while participating in The Bad Axe Throwing’s activities.

If you want to avoid any inconvenience, call ahead to Bad Axe Throwing and make a reservation before you go.

Address: 1022 N Farnsworth Ave, Aurora, IL 60505, United States

Blackberry Farm

Blackberry Farm, Aurora, Illinois
Blackberry Farm is one of the best places to go in Aurora, Illinois

The Blackberry Farm is one of the best things to do in  Illinois.

With kids, it’s a great spot to visit! Everyone will have a good time at this activity.

Founded in the 1980s, Blackberry Farm sits on 54 acres of land and is known for its beautiful scenery.

The petting zoo offers guided tours, up-close encounters with the animals, and even the opportunity to feed them.

Many different animals live on the Blackberry Farm, including a famous donkey named Paco, a Pig named Olivia, and many others!

Amusement attractions may be ridden throughout Blackberry Farm’s children’s play areas, including a carousel, ponies, paddle boats, and more.

Also, kids find it fascinating to watch the blacksmith create horseshoes.

Several learning stations are located around the farm’s adventure playground, where visitors may read and touch various items.

Picnics are always enjoyable at the farm, and the grounds are equipped with complete amenities for your convenience.

In addition, there is a sizable playground for children, complete with slides and a zip line, where they may play and have fun.

Summer camps and seminars on animal care are also held at the farm.

The final stop on tour is the gift store, where you may pick up a few items to remember your trip.

Address:100 S. Barnes Rd. Aurora, IL 60506 United States

Discover Illinois on your next vacation! If you’re looking for unique travel ideas, see our guides for Springfield and Chicago! Superb things to do in Springfield, Illinois, and fun things to do in Chicago, Illinois, are also a must-experience!

Blackwell Forest Preserve

Blackwell Forest Preserve, Aurora, Illinois
Blackwell Forest Preserve is one of the best places to go in Aurora, Illinois

Visit Blackwell Forest Preserve for a much-needed escape from the city bustle!

As one of Illinois’ largest forest preserves, the Blackwell Forest Preserve boasts 1,366 acres, making it one of the city’s most popular destinations.

 Forest preserves provide an abundance of activities for all ages and interests.

The Blackwell Forest Preserve has a wide variety of hiking and walking routes, which are popular with tourists because this is the primary activity here.

While you’re having a nice time, you may also go fishing and catch fish, including northern pike, bluegill, largemouth bass, and catfish. 

In the Silver Lake area, you can rent a boat, go kayaking, or paddle boarding to have fun on the water. You can relax on the lake or explore the endless sand dunes. 

Owners of dogs will be happy to know that Blackwell’s off-leash dog area is completely fenced and ready for them to have some off-leash fun.

There are also picnic sites in the Blackwell Forest where you and your loved ones may enjoy a meal together. Grilling is permitted at the forest preserve, so feel free to bring your own. 

This location is a fantastic spot for having fun in the great outdoors.

Address: 3S580 Naperville Rd, Wheaton, IL 60189, United States

Cantigny Park

Cantigny-Park-Aurora
Cantigny-Park-Aurora / goatling / Flickr

Cantigny Park is a great area to take a stroll or simply sit back and enjoy the scenery.

In Cantigny Park, you’ll find museums, picnic spots, hiking trails, gardens, and good stuff you love.

The Robert R. McCormick Foundation, a Chicago-based non-profit public organization, owns and manages Cantigny.

Robert R. McCormick, who was born in 1880, resided on the property from the 1920s until the time of his passing in 1955.

If you want more information about his life and achievements, visit The Robert R. McCormick House, a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of the Colonel.

The Cantigny Gardens, with its over 30 acres of show gardening, theme plantings, and sculpture, is a must-see for anybody with even a passing interest in gardens.

If you’re visiting with children, take them to the education center. There are more than 300 children’s activities offered here and art classes and seminars.

In the mood for a walk? Try one of the approximately 3-mile-long walking trails.

If you have been seeking such a spot, this is the perfect opportunity for you to let your children run about freely.

Address: 1 S 151 Winfield Road, Wheaton, IL 60189, United States

Hollywood Casino Aurora

Hollywood Casino , Aurora
Hollywood Casino, Aurora / EarlRShumaker / Flickr

Visit one of the casinos in Aurora, Illinois, and see how lucky you are!

If you visit downtown Aurora, you’ll discover plenty of hidden treasures you never knew existed. Hollywood Casino is one of these.

The first riverboat casino operated by Hollywood Casino Corp., the Hollywood Casino Aurora, opened for business in 1993.

More than 1,000 slot machines and 26 gaming tables are available in the casino’s 53,000-square-foot gaming area.

You’ll find everything you need at Hollywood Casino! The accessible entrance, exciting activities, mouth-watering cuisine, and generous freebies.

If you have a few hundred dollars to spare, this is a great place to spend some time.

Classic casino games like blackjack and roulette are waiting for you at Hollywood Casino Aurora.

The Hollywood Casino is a great place to eat, play slots, and listen to music on a date night.

The employees at Hollywood Casino are working hard to guarantee that you have a wonderful time.

Put your feet up and drink as you play the most up-to-date versions of the slot machines available. Now’s your chance!

Address: 1 W New York St, Aurora, IL 60506, United States

Jake’s Bagels and Deli

Jakes's Bagels and Deli, Aurora, Illinois
Jakes’s Bagels and Deli is one of the best places to go in Aurora, Illinois

There is no harm in giving it a go. Jake’s bagels are to die for. Seriously.

Jake’s Bagel & Deli, a family-owned business in Aurora, is known for its delicious bagels and delicacies, as well as its cozy atmosphere and friendly service.

The bagels are always fresh since they are made from scratch and steamed-baked every day.

Customers can expect nothing but freshly prepared food at Jake’s. 

As there are more than a dozen varieties of bagels and over a dozen flavors of cream cheese, there is bound to be something for everyone! 

Assorted bagels and cream cheeses are available in a tray for parties. 

Each month they have a different flavor, which will keep you coming back for a new experience.

Soups and sandwiches were also the favorites of the customers!

During the warmer months, you’ll be able to enjoy the river views while eating outside.

A warm welcome awaits you from the restaurant’s staff, who are eager to assist you with your bagel selections! 

There is no better way to start your day than with breakfast from Jake’s Bagels and Deli.

Address: 220 N Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505, United States

 

Lindt Chocolate Shop

Lindt Chocolate Shop , Aurora
Lindt Chocolate Shop , Aurora / Chris Wilson / Flickr

You deserve a delicious treat because you’re such a sweet person!

Since its founding in 1845, Lindt Chocolate Shop has been dedicated to providing customers with the highest-quality chocolates that Switzerland offers.

The passion and skill of the people who work at Lindt Chocolate Shop help them make the best chocolates.

The Lindt Chocolate Shop is the ideal location to visit if you are looking for a wide selection of chocolates.

Since there is such a wide variety of tastes of chocolate to pick from, you should evaluate each one very carefully.

Samples of chocolate are available at all times so that you may make an informed decision about what kind of chocolate you want to buy.

If you’re a tourist to Illinois, this is a great place to pick up some souvenir chocolates for friends and family back home. 

A warm welcome and prompt assistance are guaranteed when you enter the chocolate shop and interact with the staff, who are always happy to assist you with any questions or purchases.

A reminder that sure chocolates may be very pricey, to be honest. In the end, it’s all about the quality, and this chocolate does not disappoint!

Address:1650 Premium Outlets Boulevard Space 416, Aurora, IL 60502, United States

Luigi’s Pizza

Luigi's Pizza, Aurora, Illinois
Luigi’s Pizza is one of the best places to go in Aurora, Illinois

Friday is Pizza Night! To get the greatest pizza in town, make sure to swing by Luigi’s Pizza.

In 1953, Luigi’s Pizza was a small sandwich store run by Mrs. Duncan, and soups and sandwiches were the restaurant’s most popular offerings.

However, in the same year, she made the decision to include pizza on her menu in an effort to draw in more customers, as the majority of people like pizza.

Many Illinois residents were happy when Luigi’s Pizza opened, and it quickly became their go-to pizza shop.

After a series of owners, Bill Poss, the current owner, purchased Luigi’s Pizza in 1981.

If your children become bored while waiting for their pizza, the restaurant has a 12,000-square-foot game room.

If you’re planning a celebration, four banquet rooms are available to accommodate parties of up to 300 people.

For the adults, there’s a complete bar with over 50 beers on tap and bottled, as well as a wide range of wines. 

Customer service and hospitality are also top priorities here.

Luigi’s is a great place to bring the whole family, so don’t miss it!

Address: 732 Prairie St, Aurora, IL 60506, United States

Mastodon Lake and Trail

Mastodon Lake and Trail, Aurora, Illinois
Mastodon Lake and Trail is one of the best places to go in Aurora, Illinois

Mastodon is a great spot for a day out with the whole gang!

Located in the middle of Phillips Park lies Mastodon Lake and Trail.

After discovering mastodon bones there on March 7, 1934, they renamed the park Mastodon Lake and Trail after the discovery.

The Mastodon Lake and Trail offers a wide range of activities for visitors.

It’s a great place to bring your kids for some fun in the sun at the playground and the mastodon-shaped slide!

At Mastodon, guests may also use the basketball court, volleyball court, sandpits, and tusk maze to participate in various enjoyable activities with their friends and family.

There is also a Gazebo at Mastodon Lake and Trail that may be used by families and big gatherings to gather and have their lunch.

The one-mile path around the island is ideal for running or strolling while taking in the beautiful scenery.

The Mastodon Lake and Trail in Aurora, IL, should definitely be on your list of exciting things to do!

Address: On the Grounds of Phillips Park, Aurora, IL 60505 United States

MISH MASH Adventures

MISH MASH Adventures, Aurora, Illinois
MISH MASH Adventures is one of the best places to go in Aurora, Illinois

The challenge awaits you at MISH MASH Adventures, so take it on!

An adventure game known as MISH MASH requires teams to collaborate to successfully perform the tasks tucked away behind each door.

Having an Adventure allows you and your team to have fun and unwind while pushing you to your limits.

For the best score, you and your team of 2-6 individuals must finish as many rooms as possible in the least period while working together to accomplish the task.

As a team, you’ll need to use your skills of crawling, kicking, thinking, and throwing to complete the task.

Some rooms need physical effort, and others require mental concentration. Rooms might be easy or challenging.

When a team fails to complete a task, they can start again from the beginning and do it all over again.

In addition to that, there is a lounge area where you may take a rest and unwind!

There will be a lot of fun challenges for you and your loved ones.

Address:2402 Fox Valley Mall Upper Level, Center Court, Aurora, IL 60504-4140 United States

O’Malley’s Pub & Eatery

O'Malley's Pub and Eatery, Aurora, Illinois
O’Malley’s Pub and Eatery is one of the best places to go in Aurora, Illinois

If you happen to be in Aurora, you should pay O’Malley’s Pub & Eatery a visit.

In 1974, O’Malley’s Pub & Eatery first opened its doors to the public. It was started by the Poulakidas family.

The restaurant has a diverse selection of mouth-watering dishes for diners to choose from on the menu.

 There’s also a patio where visitors can enjoy their food and beverages while enjoying the wonderful scenery outdoors!

 Within the bar, there are a total of 24 high-definition televisions (HDTVs) for customers to use in order to watch any and all of their preferred sporting events.

There are various games to choose from at O’Malley’s, including Golden Tee, darts, and pool.

In addition, there are five video gaming machines in the bar for your amusement.

They frequently hold significant events, such as live entertainment and team trivia.

It doesn’t matter if you’re there for the view, the food, or the sports; this family-friendly restaurant offers it all! 

Address: 701 Hill Ave. Aurora IL, 60505

Paramount Theatre

Paramount Theatre , Aurora
Paramount Theatre , Aurora / BWChicago / Flickr

The Paramount Theatre is one of the best places to visit in  Illinois.

Get your tickets now and prepare for a crazy theatre experience at the Paramount Theatre!

The Paramount was genuinely exceptional as one of Aurora’s premier movie theaters.

Since the day it first opened its doors on September 3, 1931, the Paramount Theatre has stood as a pillar in the heart of the city’s central business sector.

A Venetian decor can be seen throughout the structure, created by C.W. and George Rapp, two of the most prominent theater architects in 1930.

Variety concerts, Broadway productions, and other events have taken place here. It’s an excellent location for many types of events.

The theater has been used for various performances, including comedies, musicals, dramas, and more!

Even if some of the topics covered are more mature, most of the shows they produce are focused on children and are typically engaging and informative.

The Paramount Theatre is equipped with high-quality sound systems and comfy seating, giving guests everything they need to relax and enjoy themselves.

If you are thirsty, you can also buy a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy at your seat.

Getting a ticket here will be the best decision you’ll ever make!

Address: 23 East Galena Boulevard Aurora, IL 60506

Phillips Park

Phillips Park , Aurora
Phillips Park, Aurora / joiseyshowaa / Flickr

To have the most enjoyable experience, go to Phillips Park for the day.

Aurora, Illinois, is home to Phillips Park, a municipal park that spans over 325 acres and is open to the public.

The Sunken Garden, an 18-hole golf course and driving range, and the Mastodon Visitors Center are just a few of the interesting attractions you’ll see here.

If you’re a big fan of animals, the Phillips Park Zoo is a must-see while you’re in the area.

One hundred years after it opened, the Phillips Park Zoo is still available to the public for free.

You’ll be able to see more than a hundred different creatures here, including forty-one distinct species.

 One of Aurora’s most well-kept secrets! It’s a cheap and exciting way to observe animals in a short time.

The 3-mile tram trip around Phillips Park is narrated by a knowledgeable guide who shares exciting facts and stories about the park’s history.

While there, be sure to stop by during the winter for the Festival of Lights, one of Northern Illinois’ largest and most free outdoor drive-through Christmas light displays.

The park is well-kept and periodically updated to make it more entertaining for all.

Address:1000 Ray Moses Dr, Aurora, IL 60505-5786 United States

Red Oak Nature Center

Red Oak Nature Center, Aurora, Illinois
Red Oak Nature Center is one of the best places to go in Aurora, Illinois

Discover one of Aurora’s hidden treasures, the Red Oak Nature Center!

The Red Oak Nature Center is encircled by more than 40 acres of green forest and is home to several species of wildlife.

At this location, visitors may get a first-hand look at nature and gain a deeper understanding of the wonders of the outdoors. 

Make the most of your time at Red Oak Nature Center by taking one of their hiking paths.

Additionally, the Fox River Trail provides hiking and biking opportunities as well as interpretive signage for visitors.

There are several live animal displays in the exhibit that are both educational and fun for visitors. 

There’s also an observation tower at the Nature Center where you can take in the scenery.

Deer, red foxes, bald eagles, and many other birds and animals are just some of the species that may be observed in the nature center.

In addition to being an excellent location for a getaway, the Nature Center features a designated picnic area where you can enjoy a delicious meal.

A visit to the nature center is a must for anybody who wants to learn more about our natural world.

Address: 2343 S River St, Batavia, IL 60510, United States

Saddle Up Saloon & Dancehall

Saddle Up Saloon and Dancehall, Aurora, Illinois
Saddle Up Saloon and Dancehall is one of the best places to go in Aurora, Illinois

Dance the night away at Saddle Up Saloon & Dancehall, and show off your finest skills!

Saddle Up Saloon & Dancehall in Aurora, Colorado, serves up delicious meals that the whole squad will enjoy!

There are several televisions throughout the saloon and dancehall for your watching enjoyment.

When the weather permits, take advantage of the Saddle Up Saloon & Dancehall outside sitting area.

On the weekends, the restaurant features a live DJ, so you can let your hair down and let loose!

In terms of late-night dancing, Saddle Up Saloon & Dancehall is the place to go.

During a line dance, you’re likely to witness a burst of flashes from cameras as people capture the moment! 

At the bar, guests can choose from a wide range of tasty and refreshing drinks and small plates.

Saddle Up Saloon and Dancehall is also a great location for birthday parties, bachelorette parties, and more!

It is a pleasure to interact with the staff, who are always cheerful, polite, and eager to assist the guests.

On a weeknight, making a reservation in advance may help you secure a table quickly.

You won’t be able to find this kind of excitement anyplace else.

Address:4440 Ogden Ave, Aurora, IL 60504-7949 United States

Splash Country Water Park

Splash Country Water Park, Aurora, Illinois
Splash Country Water Park is one of the best places to go in Aurora, Illinois

Take your family to Splash Country Water Park for a fun-filled day while visiting Aurora.

Splash Country Water Park is where you may enjoy various water-related attractions and activities.

This amusement park for families is equipped with a six-lane zero-depth pool with soft play attractions,

Here you’ll find Illinois’ second-longest lazy river at 1,100 feet.

This location has two water slides and a kid-friendly section for children under 48 inches tall that includes a waterfall, spray cannons, and other interactive attractions.

There are two sand volleyball courts available for adults and children alike looking for a fun way to get some exercise.

Every pool at the water park has a lifeguard on duty to keep an eye on swimmers, so you don’t have to be concerned about the safety of your children.

If you’d want your youngster to learn to swim, the water park provides private instruction in the off-hours.

You may also throw a memorable birthday celebration in the water park!

Relax in one of the provided lounge chairs when you’ve had enough of the activities.

There are free life jackets available for your protection as well.

Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon at the water park!

Address:195 S Barnes Rd, Aurora, IL 60506, United States

Sport Zone

Sport Zone , Aurora
Sport Zone , Aurora / Ruth Hartnup / Flickr

A trip to Aurora’s Sports Zone is a must for families traveling together!

Because of its popularity with families, Sports Zone has been open for business continuously since 1988.

This family entertainment center has a lot of fun things for families, individuals, and groups of all sizes to do.

The 18-hole-themed falls mini-golf course makes its way around the zone’s stunning waterfalls.

It will make you feel like you’re in a tropical paradise, with palm trees and water spouts running by!

With this game, you’ll be able to challenge yourself and your kids simultaneously!

The condition of the batting cages will be tested next. 

Baseball enthusiasts will enjoy practicing their swings in these exciting training cages. There are all kinds of sports to enjoy, from softball to baseball!

If you’re feeling adventurous, you may try your hand at the impressive-looking “rocket bungee.” Do you have the courage to take them on?

Let your inner champion run wild on those go-karts as well.

A wide variety of activities await visitors at Sports Zone! What’s the first thing you’ll do?

Traveling and having fun in the USA? You have to check out this page – the best states to visit in USA for the most fun and unusual travel ideas.

Need more reasons to visit Aurora, Illinois? Check out reasons to visit Aurora, Illinois, at least once in your lifetime here.

Address:1900 Hill Ave, Aurora, IL 60504, United States

 

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