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.
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.
Instead of just settling for the usual dinner-and-a-movie routine, why not dress it up a bit? Put on your best evening attire and get ready for truly classy (and classical) entertainment when you visit the Gateway Performing Arts Center. This impressive venue is the home of the Aurora Symphony Orchestra, and the group frequently performs various works by well-known composers year round. The Center is located on the campus of Gateway Senior High School in Aurora.