Things to Do in Aurora, Illinois

The City of Aurora is home to an outstanding collection of things to do and see. Here you'll find award-winning theatre, the region's newest outdoor concert venue, the region's best shopping destinations, family fun at museums and entertainment centers, and outdoor adventure at Aurora's parks and nature trails along the Fox River. 

Upcoming Events in Aurora

At the heart of it all is the Paramount Theatre. Consistently ranked among the top producing theatres in the Chicago theater landscape, the Paramount owns a record-breaking 30 "Jeff" Award nominations and 8 wins for its triumphant Broadway Series. Critics and audiences alike delight in the Paramount Theatre's Broadway Series for its breathtaking performances, larger-than-life set design, and innovative directing. And unlike many regional theatres that play host to touring shows, the Paramount Theatre's awe-inspiring productions are built from the ground up right here in Aurora. The 2017/2018 season of the Broadway Series at the Paramount Theatre includes the smash hit rock n' roll musical Million Dollar Quartet, the modern Christmas classic Elf: The Musical, the captivating thriller Cabaret, and the heart-warming tale of love and the power of song, Once. 

Off-season events at the Paramount Theatre include one night only appearances from the biggest names in show business, dollar movie nights, art gallery galas, and more great entertainment in the heart of Downtown Aurora. In fact, Aurora's rise to prominence as an arts & culture hub in the Fox River valley is thanks in large part to the success of the Paramount Theatre, as well as its growing community of downtown businesses and the creative scene fostered there. First Fridays in Downtown Aurora are immensely popular, providing an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to enjoy pop-up art galleries and live music at dozens of venues throughout Downtown Aurora. 

With its picturesque setting on a gorgeous stretch of the Fox River just north of Downtown Aurora, RiverEdge Park is where concertgoers flock to see rising stars, indie darlings, and legendary acts take the stage to play their hits at Chicagoland's newest outdoor concert venue. Summer Concert Series headliners and annual events like the Two Brothers Summer Festival bring the hottest groups to the Aurora Area. Aurora's signature music festival, Blues on the Fox, celebrates over 20 years of attracting the very best blues musicians from around the world to pay tribute to the rich history of the blues in Aurora. 

When you're not soaking in the sounds from the RiverEdge Park stage, there's plenty more live entertainment waiting for you just across the street at Two Brothers Roundhouse. Dine on chef's specials of sumptuous pub fare, sip delicious house roasted coffees in the cafe, and enjoy award-winning craft beers from Two Brothers Artisan Brewing. The Tavern at Two Brothers hosts a varied rotation of touring and local acts every week, as well as the suburbs' premier stand-up comedy showcase. A new distillery, where Two Brothers Artisan Spirits will be produced on-site, makes its debut in the space at the end of 2017. 

High stakes thrills and gaming can be found at Hollywood Casino Aurora, one of the largest poker venues in Illinois and home to over 1,100 of the hottest slots. At Fairbanks Steakhouse you can fine in updated elegance consistent with the casino's theme of the golden age of Hollywood. 

Conveniently located along major driving routes, visitors can access destination shopping at Chicago Premium Outlets and Fox Valley Mall. Chicago Premium Outlets is one of the largest outdoor outlet shopping destinations in the Midwest, providing a high-end experience for shoppers seeking exceptional values on over 160 exclusive designer and premium brands. 

Fox Valley Mall is the anchor of the Route 59 retail corridor in Aurora, where you can shop popular brand names and round out your stay with nearby dining and recreation options. Round 1, a new on-site entertainment center, provides bowling, billiards, private karaoke rooms, arcade gaming, and more on two fun-filled floors at the mall. 

Families will find a lot to love about Aurora, too, from interactive learning opportunities at SciTech Hands On Museum, the Mastodon Gallery at Phillips Park Zoo, and the region's largest collection of antique fire equipment at the Aurora Regional Fire Museum. Pioneer living comes to life along with seasonal fun at Blackberry Farm. Splash pads, water parks, and fun-filled entertainment centers can be found throughout the city at other family-friendly hot spots like the 

While you're here, visit the Aurora Farmer's Market, the longest-running market of its kind in the State of Illinois, where regional farmers and artisans present fresh produce and wares for shoppers at the Aurora Transportation Center.

The picturesque Fox River and its adjacent trails reward outdoor enthusiasts with excellent recreation opportunities for runners, paddlers, and cyclists. 

Paramount Theatre photo credit: Liz Lauren

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