Aurora Colorado Guide | Restaurants, Hotels & Things to Do

Your Guide to Aurora

Denver's eastern neighbor with incredible diversity and hidden gems

Aurora is Colorado's third-largest city, stretching across three counties east of Denver. What many visitors don't realize is that Aurora is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the United States, with over 160 languages spoken. This diversity translates directly into one of the most exciting food scenes in the metro area.

While Aurora lacks the mountain views of Denver's western suburbs, it makes up for it with authentic international cuisine, affordable accommodations near the airport, and a growing arts and entertainment scene. The Stanley Marketplace, housed in a former aviation factory, has become a destination for food halls, boutiques, and local businesses.

Aurora shares a border with Denver International Airport, making it a practical home base for travelers. Hotels here are often 30-50% cheaper than downtown Denver, with RTD light rail connecting to Union Station in under an hour.

Explore Aurora

Discover what makes Aurora unique

FOOD

International Cuisine

Aurora's diversity shines through its food. Ethiopian on Havana Street, Korean on Mississippi, Vietnamese on Alameda.

PARK

Cherry Creek State Park

4,000 acres of trails, a reservoir for swimming and boating, wildlife viewing, and camping. An urban oasis minutes from the city.

WATER

Aurora Reservoir

Quieter alternative to Cherry Creek. Swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and scuba diving training.

SHOP

Southlands Shopping

Open-air shopping and dining center. 100+ stores with main street feel in south Aurora.

HOTEL

Where to Stay

Hotels near Denver airport. 30-50% cheaper than downtown with easy access.

CAR

Getting There

Adjacent to Denver International Airport. RTD A Line and R Line connections.

Practical Information

Planning your Aurora visit

DIA

Airport Access

Aurora borders Denver International Airport. Many hotels offer free shuttles. RTD A Line connects to downtown Denver. Convenient for early flights or late arrivals.

TRANSIT

Getting Around

RTD R Line runs through Aurora with connections to downtown. Aurora is more car-dependent than Denver proper. Rideshare is widely available.

HAVANA

Havana Street

The heart of Aurora's food scene. Ethiopian, Eritrean, Mexican, Vietnamese, and Korean restaurants line this corridor. Come hungry, leave happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Aurora

Is Aurora safe for tourists?

Aurora is a large, diverse city with safe and less safe areas like any metro. Tourist areas like Stanley Marketplace, Southlands, and hotels near the airport are generally safe. Use normal urban awareness.

Why stay in Aurora instead of Denver?

Hotels are significantly cheaper, especially near the airport. If you're flying in late or out early, Aurora saves time and money. The food scene is incredible for authentic international cuisine.

How far is Aurora from downtown Denver?

Aurora shares a border with Denver. Stanley Marketplace is about 15 minutes from downtown. The eastern edges near the airport are 25-30 minutes. RTD light rail connects the cities.

What's the best food in Aurora?

Ethiopian on Havana Street (try Abyssinia or Queen of Sheba), Korean on Mississippi Avenue, Vietnamese on Alameda. Stanley Marketplace for upscale-casual variety. Aurora's diversity means authentic global cuisine.

Aurora, Colorado