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Aurora

Overview

Founded by pioneer Joseph McCarty in 1834, Aurora is located in the Fox River Valley. Today, Aurora has a booming population of 175,000 people and is Illinois' second largest city. The city calls itself the "City of Lights" because it was the first city in the United States to use electric lighting to light the entire city. Many new housing developments have sprung up all over Aurora along with numerous shopping centers and restaurants. The city also houses Aurora University.

Shopping

The extremely popular outlet mall off Farnsworth Avenue brings in shoppers from all over the western Chicago area. The weekends bring in so many people that the exit ramp from I-88 is often lined with cars all waiting to enter. Aurora also has Fox Valley Mall and numerous new shopping plazas.

Dining/Nightlife

Many popular restaurants have found their way into the ever growing city. Everything from Italian to Mexican to American cuisine can be found especially down Rt. 59.

Culture & Attractions

With both a community college and Aurora University, Aurora is a popular city. It has a historical society, museums, and an art and history center.

The Low Down

Plan to spend most of an afternoon and evening in Aurora filled with shopping and dining. Between the mall and outlet center, it is easy to blow the entire day walking from shop to shop.