Aurora CO

Aurora, CO – The Gateway to the Rockies, where scenic beauty meets urban charm. Just east of Denver, Aurora is a blend of outdoor adventure, diverse cultures, and a thriving arts scene. Whether you're exploring nature trails, dining at global eateries, or soaking in the local history, this city offers a unique Colorado experience.

• Population: ~398,000
• Weather: Four-season climate (20-90°F); snowy winters, warm summers, and plenty of sunshine year-round.
• Places To Visit: Cherry Creek State Park, Aurora Reservoir, Stanley Marketplace, Plains Conservation Center, Aurora History Museum.
• Top Activities: Hiking and biking scenic trails, boating at the reservoir, golfing on picturesque courses, exploring local breweries, attending cultural festivals.
• Famous Food: Smoked brisket at Rolling Smoke BBQ, Ethiopian cuisine on Havana Street, craft beer at Dry Dock Brewing, and green chili-smothered burritos.

Aurora, CO, is a growing city with a strong job market in healthcare, aerospace, education, and technology. As part of the Denver metropolitan area, it offers diverse career opportunities and competitive salaries.

Aurora, Colorado has plenty of fun, relaxed places perfect for students looking to unwind, socialize, and enjoy a break from study sessions. Whether you like cozy hangouts, outdoor adventures, or great food, Aurora has you covered.

Stanley Marketplace – A trendy gathering spot featuring unique eateries, coffee shops, and cool boutiques. Students love this area for its relaxed vibe and great atmosphere to meet friends.

Cherry Creek State Park – For the outdoor lovers, this park offers hiking trails, water activities, biking, or even just a peaceful place to hang out and relax by the beach area.

Southlands Mall – More than just a shopping destination, Southlands offers a chill vibe with plenty of cafés, affordable food spots, a movie theater, and outdoor events like live music throughout the year.

Dry Dock Brewing Company – This local brewery, located conveniently in Aurora, has a friendly atmosphere, board games, and non-alcoholic beverages as well, perfect for groups looking to catch up and unwind.

Utah Park – Ideal for laid-back afternoons, this spot has basketball courts, picnic areas, and plenty of grassy space to hang out, relax, and enjoy the sunshine.

AMF Aurora Lanes – A fun-filled classic bowling alley perfect for an evening with friends. Great spot to relax, bowl, and enjoy some friendly competition away from books and stress.

Aurora, Colorado, is home to some of the top colleges and universities in the state, offering excellent programs in healthcare, technology, business, and the arts.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Aurora

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus – A leading research university specializing in medical, pharmacy, nursing, and dental programs.

Community College of Aurora – A well-respected community college offering associate degrees and certificate programs in healthcare, business, and technology.

Colorado State University Global – An accredited online public university providing flexible degree programs in business, IT, and leadership.

Metropolitan State University of Denver (Aurora Location) – Offers a variety of bachelor's and master's programs with a focus on business, education, and healthcare.

Arapahoe Community College (Aurora Campus) – A popular institution for students pursuing associate degrees and career training programs.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Aurora

Colorado Technical University (Aurora Campus) – A private university offering career-focused programs in business, cybersecurity, and engineering.

Platt College – A small private college specializing in nursing and healthcare degrees.

Colorado Christian University (Aurora Center) – A faith-based institution providing degree programs in business, education, and theology.

American Sentinel College of Nursing & Health Sciences – A top choice for students looking to advance their careers in nursing and healthcare leadership.

Ecotech Institute (formerly in Aurora) – Previously a leader in renewable energy education before its closure.

Aurora, CO, is home to some of the best high schools in the state, offering excellent academics and extracurricular opportunities for students.

Top Public High Schools in Aurora, CO

• Grandview High School – A top-ranked public school with strong academics and athletic programs.
• Smoky Hill High School – Known for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program and diverse student body.
• Cherokee Trail High School – Offers an excellent college preparatory curriculum and strong athletics.
• Eaglecrest High School – Focuses on academic excellence and extracurricular involvement.
• Rangeview High School – Recognized for its advanced placement (AP) courses and strong arts programs.

Top Private High Schools in Aurora, CO

• Regis Jesuit High School – A top-tier college preparatory school with separate boys’ and girls’ divisions.
• Lutheran High School Parker – Offers faith-based education with strong academics and athletics.
• Colorado Early Colleges Aurora – Provides students with free college courses and a rigorous curriculum.
• Vanguard Classical School – A charter school with a classical education approach.
• Lotus School for Excellence – Focuses on STEM education and college readiness.

Aurora, Colorado, is part of the Denver metropolitan area, where sports fans can enjoy professional teams from major leagues, including basketball, football, baseball, soccer, and hockey.

🏀 Basketball – Denver Nuggets (NBA)

• Denver Nuggets – The Nuggets, based in nearby Denver, are a powerhouse in the NBA. They won their first NBA Championship in 2023, led by Nikola Jokić, a two-time NBA MVP. The team has been a consistent playoff contender in recent years.

🏈 Football – Denver Broncos (NFL)

• Denver Broncos – One of the most storied franchises in the NFL, the Broncos have won three Super Bowl titles (1997, 1998, 2015). They have had legendary players like John Elway, Terrell Davis, and Peyton Manning. The team is known for its passionate fan base and strong defenses.

⚾ Baseball – Colorado Rockies (MLB)

• Colorado Rockies – The Rockies joined Major League Baseball in 1993 and made their first World Series appearance in 2007. While they are still chasing their first championship, they have had star players like Todd Helton, Larry Walker, and Nolan Arenado.

⚽ Soccer – Colorado Rapids (MLS)

• Colorado Rapids – The Rapids compete in Major League Soccer and won their first MLS Cup in 2010. They have enjoyed success with players like Pablo Mastroeni and Tim Howard. The team plays at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, a premier soccer venue.

🏒 Hockey – Colorado Avalanche (NHL)

• Colorado Avalanche – The Avalanche have been one of the most successful teams in the NHL, winning three Stanley Cup championships (1996, 2001, 2022). They have had legendary players such as Joe Sakic, Patrick Roy, and Nathan MacKinnon. The team is known for its fast-paced and exciting style of play.

Aurora, CO, is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich history, beautiful outdoor spaces, and unique attractions. Whether you're a local or a visitor, here are some fun facts about Aurora:

1. Gateway to the Rockies – Aurora is known as the "Gateway to the Rockies" because of its close proximity to the beautiful Rocky Mountains.
2. One of Colorado’s Largest Cities – Aurora is the third-largest city in Colorado, after Denver and Colorado Springs.
3. Golf Lover’s Paradise – The city has over eight golf courses, including some of the best in the region.
4. More Than 100 Parks – With over 100 parks and thousands of acres of open space, Aurora is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
5. International Dining Scene – Aurora is home to one of the most diverse food scenes in Colorado, with restaurants serving cuisine from around the world.
6. Aviation History – The city is home to the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, which showcases historic aircraft and space exhibits.
7. Fast-Growing City – Aurora has been one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. in recent years.
8. Cherry Creek State Park – Aurora is home to Cherry Creek State Park, a popular spot for camping, fishing, boating, and hiking.
9. Home to Buckley Space Force Base – The city houses Buckley Space Force Base, which plays a vital role in U.S. missile warning systems.
10. Filmmaking Spot – Some Hollywood movies, like Things to Do in Denver When You’re Dead, have filmed scenes in Aurora.