Healing Touch by Jeanna

William Smith was an Aurora pioneer who went from raising sheep on his humble property to eventually founding Aurora's Public Schools and donating the land for Del Mar Park. See where this prominent Aurora figure lived by visiting the William Smith House that was built in 1910 and named a landmark in 1986. The home remained in the family until 1983 when Smith's daughter Margaret, passed away. The house is now a privately owned residence, but you can still stroll by and snap photos from the sidewalk.

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.

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.