Esther Lee: Allstate Insurance

Aurora's Great Plains Park is great in so many ways. Visitors can enjoy several outdoor activities like splashing around in the water feature area, watching the kids play on the jungle-gym or running around and playing a game of catch on the spacious open fields. The park gets high marks from many visitors who site its cleanliness and family-friendly atmosphere. It is also a favorite of nature lovers, as you can enjoy a picnic lunch or just sprawl out on a blanket on the grass with your favorite book and take in some of that Colorado sunshine.

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to Hammond's Candies. The company has been creating some of the world's sweetest candies and confections since 1920. A large part of their continued success is the fact that they have stayed true to their original recipes and careful attention is still given to every aspect of the candy's production. A tour of the facility lasts approximately 30 minutes, and during that time you will see how candy canes and lollypops are made from start to finish. The tours are free and no reservations are required.

There's nothing quite like enjoying an adventure in the great outdoors, and when you're in Aurora, the best place to have that experience is at Cherry Creek State Park. There are group camping sites available, or just enough space for you and the family. Either way, camping fees apply and they do not include the price of a park pass. The site gets rave reviews for being a safe, quiet area with lots of great amenities and attractions that include walking paths, horse stables, restrooms, jet ski rentals and even firewood for your campsite.