Happy Roots

Aurora hikers hold the Cherry Creek Spillway in high regard as it is the main connecting trail between the Toll Gate system and Cherry Creek State Park and Greenway. Hikers can access this recreation trail from the east from Chambers Road at Yale Avenue. The west access point is the Parker Road underpass for Hampden Drive.

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.

If you're feeling lucky, then make plans to take a casino trip from Aurora to Black Hawk and Central City. This fun attraction is only a short 35 mile drive from Aurora, and you can enjoy gambling in Central City and Black Hawk. Central City is commonly referred to as the "Richest Square Mile on Earth" as it was a key area during the mining boom. Perhaps you'll strike gold of a different sort when your slot machine hits the big jackpot!