Tiny Aurora, Minnesota Is A Time Capsule Town That's Irresistibly Charming And Nostalgic
By Trent Jonas|Published November 06, 2023
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Trent Jonas
Author
Trent Jonas came to Minnesota to attend college - and never left. He's a Twin Cities-based writer with a BA in English and a MFA in creative writing, a Minnesota Master Naturalist, and the proud father of two adult children. With more than a decade of freelance writing experience under his belt, Trent is often out exploring his favorite topics: Minnesota's woods, lakes, and trails. Rhubarb pie is his weakness, so discovering new diners is also a passion.
The charming Iron Range town of Aurora, MN is a place that seems frozen in a time where community and civic pride were important, which lends a sense of nostalgia to this little villages. One would not be faulted for thinking of Aurora as a bit of an old-fashioned town in Minnesota. But take it from me, while it retains some of these old-fashioned values, you’ll find plenty to do, see, and enjoy in this awesome, Up North community.
Aurora is small town on the Iron Range of a little less than 2,000 people.
This means it offers easy access to all the recreational opportunities that the forest affords, like hiking, biking, birding, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and off-roading.
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The downtown area is compact and walkable, and the streets are lined with local businesses.
The Hive roasts its beans in small batches as needed, so its coffee drinks hit just right. The shop also offers smoothies if you're looking for something with less kick.
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For a heartier breakfast or lunch, Megan's Family Restaurant is the place to go.
Megan's Family Restaurant, 114 N Main St, Aurora, MN 55705, USA
That's right — Giants Ridge Recreation Area, with all its top-notch golf, skiing, and mountain biking facilities, is just minutes from Aurora.
A visit to Aurora may feel like a bit like a trip to a more nostalgic time, but be warned: You may not want to leave after spending some time there. Given its location near some of the state’s premier recreation spots, you won’t have any trouble finding a vacation rental in the area. So, what do you think – road trip, anyone?
Have you visited Aurora? Tell us about your experience in the comments, and let us know about some of your favorite small towns in Minnesota that remind you of a simpler time.
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