Bocote Design Studio, LLC

The Centennial House is one of Aurora's most significant pieces of history for various reasons. The structure is a Queen Anne Victorian-styled home and is the oldest of the nine houses Donald Fletcher built to begin developing a new community east of Denver. The community's original name, Fletcher, was later changed to Aurora. The home was one of the first in the area to feature plumbing and has had both its interior and exterior restored to reflect its original 1890s appearance. Tours are available, but you must call to reserve your time.

Aurora's Plains Conservation Center offers you a chance to explore the area's natural history in a truly unique and memorable way. The admission price varies depending on the program or tour you are going on, but it is well worth it. You'll get a chance to explore the 1,100-acre Metro-close to Aurora site and you may encounter some "prairie originals" like pronghorns, prairie dogs, coyotes, owls, meadowlarks and red-tailed hawks. In all, it's a great way to see a side of Aurora's natural beauty that you otherwise wouldn't get a chance to encounter.

Instead of just settling for the usual dinner-and-a-movie routine, why not dress it up a bit? Put on your best evening attire and get ready for truly classy (and classical) entertainment when you visit the Gateway Performing Arts Center. This impressive venue is the home of the Aurora Symphony Orchestra, and the group frequently performs various works by well-known composers year round. The Center is located on the campus of Gateway Senior High School in Aurora.

If dogs are man's best friend, your pet will appreciate that friendship even more when you take him for some time outdoors at Grandview Dog Park. It's a great way for your dog to get some fresh air and exercise at this 5-acre park that offers plenty of "off-leash" fun. There is even a separate section for smaller dogs, a fun agility course and lots of shady areas for you to rest for awhile with your four-legged friend.