Team Reprographics

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.

Aurora's Sand Creek Regional Greenway prides itself as offering wilderness in the city. That claim is definitely true, as the 14-mile trail connects the High Line Canal in Aurora to the South Platte River Greenway in Commerce City. Along the way, it passes through Denver as well as the newly formed Stapleton community. The trail is a favorite of walkers, outdoor recreation enthusiasts, nature lovers, horseback riders, and dog lovers who are highly encouraged to have their pets on a leash when they visit.

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.

The Denver Zoo has a pedigree almost as impressive as those of the animals it houses. Established in 1896, the facility is by far the city's most popular attraction as it welcomes over one million visitors every year. You'll find over 4,000 animals here that represent 700 species. See leopards, king cobras, black rhinos, coral reef fish, elephants, zebras, vampire bats, gorillas and much more. The kids will also enjoy the petting areas and highly informative special exhibits scattered throughout this highly entertaining venue.