Steve McBride

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.

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.

From the highest climactic notes to the sweeping grandeur of the big finale, watching an opera is truly a feast for the senses. You can feast your eyes on several productions that Opera Colorado stages throughout the year. The company regularly stages three operas (four performances each) at the beautiful Ellie Caulkins Opera House at the Denver Performing Arts Complex. The professionals both on stage and behind the scenes are truly committed to presenting the most impressive performances and high-class entertainment that the company has become known for throughout its distinguished tenure.