The Chatfield Reservoir was built for the primary purpose of flood control as well as being one of the many reservoirs that supplies water to the city of Denver and the surrounding areas. The reservoir is surrounded by Chatfield State Park and attracts many visitors who enjoy various recreational activities like boating, horseback riding and camping.
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.
Get a feel of what it was like to attend class in a two-room schoolhouse when you visit Aurora's Melvin School. The structure, built in 1922 and named a landmark in 1986, originally served the outlying community of Melvin. In 1949, the structure was carefully moved to make room for the Cherry Creek Reservoir. After being used as a tavern for 17 years, the Cherry Creek Historical Society moved the school to its current location on the grounds of Smoky Hill High School where it continues to be owned and maintained by the Cherry Hill School District.
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.