With its delightful mix of arts, entertainment, and family-friendly attractions, the Aurora Area of Illinois makes for the perfect road trip for St. Louisans. Located just a few hours north, this vibrant region is an accessible destination that promises a memorable experience without breaking the bank. The area is home to an award-winning Broadway musical theatre, premiere shopping destinations, and mid-century American architecture that will take your breath away.
One of the major draws of the Aurora Area is its affordability, especially when compared to big-city destinations, such as nearby Chicago. Downtown Aurora and the surrounding area provides a range of lodging options that cater to various budgets, from friendly, affordable spots to well-known hotel chains. This makes it easy for travelers to find comfortable accommodations without sacrificing their travel budget.
Award-Winning Entertainment
At the heart of Aurora’s arts scene is the Paramount Theatre, a stunning venue that rivals any in Chicago in terms of production quality. Known for its Broadway-caliber shows, the Paramount offers performances that often surpass those found in Chicago’s major venues—at a fraction of the cost. This season, the Paramount is even hosting the regional premiere of Disney’s Frozen: The Musical.
“Aurora may be The Second City’s Second City, but we’re No. 1 in Illinois when it comes to producing Broadway-caliber theater,” says Paramount Theatre president/CEO Tim Rater. “Paramount now runs three different theaters, all within a block of one another. Visitors here can choose from big, Broadway musicals in our gorgeous, Art Deco Paramount Theatre, an intimate and adventurous performance in our sleek new Copley Theatre, or a rockin’ new production of Million Dollar Quartet in our new Stolp Island Theatre, where audiences experience theater so close, they feel like they’re in the room with Elvis, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis.”
In the past three years alone, more than 600 patrons have come from Missouri to see shows at Paramount. “We scheduled a Memorial Day weekend trip to Chicago, and visiting Aurora to see Beautiful: The Carole King Musical at the historic Paramount Theatre was at the top of our list,” says Richmond Heights resident Greg Patton. “The theater is beautiful, the show was absolutely fabulous, and we really enjoyed exploring and dining in charming downtown Aurora before and after the show. It’s a must-see.”
Aurora is also home to the Edith Farnsworth House, an iconic piece of mid-century American architecture designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. Named a site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Farnsworth House celebrates Dr. Edith Farnsworth’s life and times through exhibitions and programming.
“Illinois-Made” Businesses & Products
The Aurora Area proudly hosts eight businesses recognized by the Illinois Office of Tourism as “Illinois Made,” celebrating the unique, high-quality products crafted by local artisans. These include craft breweries, distilleries, and specialty shops that offer everything from handmade candles to gourmet treats.
A trip to these businesses not only provides an opportunity to support local entrepreneurs, but you can also discover unique souvenirs and gifts along the way. These locations include Atrevete Confections, Endiro Coffee, Fox Valley Winery, Hardware Sustainable Gastropub & Brewery, Hearth & Hammer, Illuminate Space, Ms Jana’s Candy, and Wurst Kitchen.
Shopping & Dining Delights
Shopping in the Aurora Area is a treat for visitors, with a mix of charming boutiques, local markets, and popular retail outlets. Chicago Premium Outlets in Aurora is a shopper’s paradise, offering discounts on designer brands. For more local and artisan-based shopping, head to the Batavia Boardwalk Shops, located in downtown Batavia, or the area’s historic riverfront downtowns, which are packed with boutiques and specialty shops.
After a day of shopping, the area’s diverse dining scene awaits, featuring everything from farm-to-table restaurants to family-owned diners serving up hearty Midwestern fare. For a unique dining experience, visit Hardware Sustainable Gastropub & Brewery, where guests are greeted with a “living wall” overflowing with fresh herbs and greens.
Museums & Historical Sites
For history buffs and families alike, the Aurora Area is home to several museums that offer educational and engaging experiences. Kids and adults alike will love the Aurora Regional Fire Museum, which showcases the history of firefighting in the region. Or take in some art at the Smithsonian-affiliated Schingoethe Center at Aurora University, which houses a permanent collection of traditional and contemporary Native American art, with more than 4,000 works. The area also boasts beautiful historic architecture, with self-guided tours available for those interested in local heritage. Visiting multiple spots? Consider participating in the inaugural Aurora Area Museum Sticker Challenge to receive a special gift.
Visit Today
Whether you’re seeking a weekend getaway filled with arts and culture or a family-friendly adventure, the Aurora Area of Illinois is a destination that checks all of the boxes. With its easy access from St. Louis, affordable lodging, and a variety of attractions, it’s an ideal choice for those looking to explore a new part of the Midwest without venturing too far from home. Next time you’re planning a trip, consider the Aurora area—a destination that offers big-city experiences with small-town charm.
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of Aurora Area CVB. Learn more about the area, and plan your trip by visiting enjoyaurora.com.
