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Aurora History Museum tourist attraction in Aurora, CO
Photo: Lewis Cuthair
View of Aurora History Museum in Aurora, CO
Photo: Cash Kevin
View of Aurora History Museum in Aurora, CO
Photo: 두인선

Aurora History Museum

4.6(271 reviews)$Museum
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 5-12. Elementary-aged children particularly enjoy the interactive displays and hands-on activities, while the museum's approachable size prevents younger visitors from getting overwhelmed. Teens interested in Colorado history will also find the exhibits engaging.

About

The Aurora History Museum offers hands-on exploration of local history that keeps kids engaged through interactive exhibits and family-friendly programs. With artifacts spanning from pioneer days to modern Aurora, children can touch, explore, and learn about Colorado's past in a welcoming environment that encourages curiosity and discovery.

Highlights

  • Interactive exhibits where kids can touch and explore historical artifacts
  • Programs and activities specifically designed for family learning
  • Rotating exhibits that showcase different aspects of Aurora's diverse history
  • Kid-friendly displays at accessible heights for younger visitors
  • Free admission making repeat visits easy on the family budget

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Visit on Tuesday through Thursday mornings right when they open at 9 AM for the quietest experience and personalized attention from staff
  2. 2.Admission is FREE, making this an excellent budget-friendly option for families
  3. 3.Check their website before visiting for special family programs and seasonal activities that offer extra hands-on experiences
  4. 4.The museum is smaller than major city museums, making it perfect for shorter attention spans,you can see everything without rushing
  5. 5.Parking is readily available and free in the lot adjacent to the museum

Best Time to Visit

Tuesday through Thursday mornings offer the most relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds. Saturday afternoons (11 AM-4 PM) work well for working parents, though they can be busier. Avoid the first hour on Saturdays if you prefer a quieter visit.

What to Know

Admission is free to the public. The museum is located within the Aurora Municipal Center complex with ample free parking. Plan to bring snacks as there's no café on-site, though you're welcome to eat in designated areas.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round with consistent hours Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday. The museum is closed Friday, Sunday, and Monday. Check their calendar for special holiday programs and seasonal family events that enhance the regular exhibits.

Nearby Eats

Panera Bread and Chipotle are located within a mile for quick, kid-friendly meals. For sit-down dining, try Tokyo Joe's or Noodles & Company, both offering healthy options children typically enjoy.

More Activities Near Aurora

Adventure

Westerly Creek Trail

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Westerly Creek Trail offers families a peaceful escape into nature right in Aurora, with paved and natural surface paths that wind through scenic wetlands and open spaces. The trail system features gentle terrain ideal for young bikers learning their skills, jogger strollers, and little hikers who want to explore without exhausting climbs. With multiple access points and varying distances, you can customize your adventure based on your family's energy level and experience.

Park

Saddle Rock Ridge

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Saddle Rock Ridge offers families a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure with its distinctive rock formations, well-maintained hiking trails, and playgrounds. Kids will love scrambling around the unique geological features while parents enjoy panoramic views of the Front Range, making it an ideal spot for active families looking to explore Colorado's natural landscape without venturing far from Aurora.

Water Park

Rocky Mountain Splash Synchronized Swimming Lessons

5.0$$

Rocky Mountain Splash offers synchronized swimming lessons in a fantastic seasonal water park setting that's perfect for families. With a 5-star rating, this Aurora facility combines quality swim instruction with fun recreational amenities including water slides, a relaxing lazy river, an exciting wave pool, and dedicated shallow areas where little ones can safely play and build confidence in the water.

Playground

Go bonkers

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Go Bonkers is Aurora's ultimate indoor playground paradise where kids can literally bounce off the walls! This massive facility features trampolines, exciting slides, challenging obstacle courses, and thoughtfully designed age-specific zones ensuring safe fun for everyone from toddlers to tweens. With a stellar 4.8-star rating from nearly 400 families, it's the perfect energy-burning destination rain or shine.