The city of Aurora, Illinois is located in the Chicago metropolitan area. It lies within DuPage, Kane, Kendall, and Will counties. It is the second-most populous city in Illinois after Chicago and the 144th-most populous in the United States. There are plenty of things to do in Aurora, Illinois, to make any visit to this beautiful city enjoyable and memorable. Check out the list below for ideas.
Mastodon Island
A visit to Mastodon Island in Aurora, Illinois will definitely be worth it. Located near Phillips Park, the island has an interesting paleontological and archaeological history. The park was created in the 1930s and is the perfect place to get out of the city for some quality time with nature. The trail begins in the Phillips Park Aquatic Center, where visitors can rent equipment for their next adventure. It is also easy to find parking near the lake and access to the trails.
West Recreation Area
For fun-filled family outings, visit Mastodon Island and West Recreation Area in Aurora. This unique playground for children has a mastodon slide and a tusk maze. This park has a gazebo, playgrounds, and basketball and volleyball courts. You can even enjoy the Aurora Regional Fire Museum, which provides an informative look at fire service history. You’ll also find a children’s sledding hill, as well as an 18-hole golf course.
Blackberry Farm
Located in Aurora, Illinois, Blackberry Farm is a small family attraction with a variety of activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy rides, exhibits, and historical demonstrations while learning about pioneer life. The Farm even offers a special weekend experience for children in the winter when it hosts Polar Express weekends complete with story readings and a train ride. The farm is open every day from May 1 through October 31, but it’s closed from November to February.
MISH MASH Adventures
MISH MASH Adventures in Aurora Illinois is a fun and challenging indoor game where players work together to complete challenges hidden behind different doors. Each challenge challenges them to solve a puzzle and earn a prize. It is recommended for ages 10 and up, but can be enjoyed by all ages – from kids to parents! This unique venue is great for team building, birthdays, and other private events.
Splash Country Water Park
This municipally-owned water park in Aurora, Illinois features two hundred feet of winding lazy river and the state’s largest zero-depth pool. Other water attractions include a children’s play area, two regulation sand volleyball courts, and a full concession stand. For groups of fifteen or more, Splash Country offers birthday party packages. There are also discounted rates for groups of 15 or more. While the park is family-friendly, it is best for younger children and is not recommended for older children.