The Ebenezer Sheldon family was the first to explore the remote areas of the Western Reserve, which would eventually be known as Aurora, in 1799. From Westfield, Connecticut, Ebenezer, and his family traveled to Ohio. Other pioneer families soon followed them to Ohio, leaving behind the comforts of New England.

Aurora is located in Portage County, Ohio's northwestern region. Its nearby cities include Kenton, Ravenna, Streetsboro, and Stow.

If you're looking for a warm welcome and a clean place to stay the night, check into one of Aurora's family-friendly hotels such as Hampton Inn & Suites, Holiday Inn Express, or Quality Inn.See more here. 

Places to Visit

The Aurora Regional Fire Museum, which opened in 1998, is one of the main attractions. The Prince Memorial Greenhouse and Carriage Museum in downtown Aurora is a hidden treasure to see. It houses a vast collection of tropical plants as well as exquisite orchid arrangements.

The Aurora Historical Society has archival materials at the Aurora History Museum, which is on the lower level of The Aurora Public Library and overlooks the lovely village square.

Visitors of all ages will enjoy the array of exciting things to do in Aurora, including a relaxing afternoon at a state park, an energetic day at the Wildwater Kingdom water park, fine cuisine, abundant shopping, and live entertainment.

When it comes to family activities, there is plenty to do in and around Aurora. The Pioneer Waterland & Dry Fun Park is a clean, family-friendly amusement park offering rides and numerous activities for children and adults. The park provides endless family fun with its vast selection of thrilling rides, including a roller coaster.

Food and Entertainment

You have plenty of dining options in Aurora, including Mexican, Italian, Chinese, and American cuisine at restaurants such as Little Tijuana Cafe, Anthony's Ristorante, Mandarin Jade, and Copper Grill Steak House.

For a special evening out, dine at The Barn at the Inn Walden. Despite its name, this restaurant serves cuisine of exceptional quality, and men must wear jackets.

Stop by the Thorn Creek Winery for a range of starters and desserts complemented with a selection of great wines if you only want something light to eat.

Bring a picnic and spend the day at Sunny Lake Park, featuring pavilions with picnic tables and grills. Casual dining is also available at the Aurora Farms Premium Outlet Mall and the Wildwater Kingdom, so you won't have to stop your fun to eat.

Breezy Point Park in Downers Grove, Illinois, hosts weekly outdoor concerts all summer, although the events are moved to Doogan's of Aurora when it rains.

Around September, the town of Capitola hosts a fall festival in Sunny Lake Park, and weekly live musical performances are scheduled at the Thorn Creek Winery throughout the year.

 If you're looking for a new city to explore, Aurora, OH, is worth considering. There's plenty of great things happening in this up-and-coming Ohio town that will keep your interest piqued and the locals eager to show off their hometown pride. There are many ways to enjoy life here, from festivals celebrating food and music to parks with beautiful trails and gardens!