Couples Getaway & Vacation Guide to the Aurora Area of Illinois

Posted on 04/28/2021 by  James Cardis

Need a change of scenery? Enjoy a romantic getaway with craft beverages, eclectic dining, boutique shopping, immersive experiences, and concerts under the stars in the Aurora Area of Illinois. 

Tour an American icon, and see the rising stars of American independent music

Start your trip with a tour of an American icon at the Farnsworth House, designed by Mies van der Rohe as a distinctive mid-century country home for the pioneering nephrologist, poet, and translator, Dr. Edith Farnsworth. Find lunch at Burnt Barrel Social in Yorkville before shopping unique vintage goods at Vintage 71 Shops and Olde Farm Creek. Enjoy the romantic vibe at Mandrake for small plates and a lovingly crafted wine list, then take in a show at The Law Office Pub & Music Hall, where both legends and future stars of independent rock, folk, and country ply their trade. 

Handcrafted dining experiences are your reward for trying something new

Wake up with a gourmet breakfast at Grace Coffee + Wine and fuel up for a whitewater kayaking class with The Yak Shack at Marge Cline Whitewater Course (reservations required). Chow down on a deconstructed Chicago style hot dog for lunch at Hardware, a sustainable gastropub with its own on-site hop farm and a collection of over 400 varieties of whiskey from all over the world. Shop Aurora-made goods at Wyckwood House and The Cotton Seed Creative Exchange in downtown Aurora. Take in a concert under the stars at RiverEdge Park (weather and schedule permitting — view all dates) or enjoy nightly live entertainment on weekends at Two Brothers Roundhouse, where you can enjoy the big, bold flavors of Two Brothers Artisan Brewing, Spirits, and Coffee. 

Enjoy a day on the trails

Fuel up for your day on the Fox River Trails with Endiro Coffee, a tree-to-cup coffee roaster offering delicious American breakfast items with a Ugandan twist. Rent bikes from the Fox Valley Bike Share and tour scenic riverside trails with stops in Montgomery and Oswego: Find some of the region's tastiest craft beverages at Oswego Brewing Co. and sample French-inspired artisan pastries at Atrevete Confections. After returning your bikes, shop exclusive deals on designer goods at Chicago Premium Outlets, home to the only Shinola outlet store in Chicagoland. For dinner, try a diverse collection of Asian cuisine at Pacifica Square, home to a range of options including Korean BBQ, gourmet Chinese, boba tea, and more.

More things to do in the Aurora Area 

Looking for more options to enjoy the Aurora Area with that special someone? Visit our Events guide to find live entertainment and nightlife around which to plan your visit, including the full schedule of summer concerts at RiverEdge Park and award winning Broadway at Aurora's Paramount Theatre. 

Learn more with a copy of our Aurora Area Go Guide, available in print and online right here at enjoyaurora.com/VisitorsGuide. 

View more travel ideas for couples, grandparents, and more at enjoyaurora.com/TravelGuides.  

Endiro Coffee photo thanks to Jacquie & Ryan, The Chicago Couple