If you’re looking for somewhere new to explore for your next Nebraska staycation, there’s nothing like discovering the charms of a small town in Nebraska. Aurora may not be the best-known little town in the Cornhusker State, but it sure does make for a memorable, fun-filled weekend getaway in Nebraska. Read on to learn about all of the fun things to do in Aurora Nebraska.

The quaint town is located in Hamilton County and is home to around 4,500 people and some must-see attractions.
Ammodramus, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
The town's motto is "Where the Possibilities are Endless," which is a fitting description of this town that cares deeply about its residents and visitors. Just look at this sign - isn't this the very picture of Midwestern hospitality?
Sue Boschee/Google Local
For your weekend getaway, we highly recommend camping if the weather is right. Streeter Park is right in town, while Pioneer Trails Recreation area sits just a tiny bit northeast. Both offer recreational activities for just about every age.
Tom Simon/Google Local
Arguably the most popular attraction in Aurora - and the one that has put this little town on the map - is the Edgerton Explorit Center.
Visit Nebraska
This interactive science museum gives visitors the chance to learn through play. It's not just for kids - there's something here for everyone to enjoy. Find out more about the Edgerton Explorit Center on its website.
Feeling a bit peckish during your stay? There are several restaurants to choose from, both locally-owned joints and big chain franchises.
https://www.facebook.com/TheMakersOnline/photos/720142378637139/
Pictured here is The Makers- Bakers and Builders, a cute little bakery that also offers handmade home decor and more.

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You can even get the famous Nebraska combination here: cinnamon rolls and chili. If you're in town for lunch, this is the way to go.
The Makers - Bakers & Builders/Facebook
Fans of terrific breakfast and lunch will also want to drop in at Rath's Cafe, an adorable homestyle restaurant that serves coffee drinks, breakfast and lunch, and Friday night dinner.
Rath's Cafe/Facebook
The small-town vibe is strong here, and the decor complements the type of meals you'd expect to find at Grandma's table. We've heard that Maker's and Rath's both have the best cinnamon rolls in town - you'll just have to sample both and see for yourself! Find out more about Rath's on Facebook.
Rath's Cafe/Facebook
Take advantage of the chance to see a movie at the 12th Street Cinema. It's a community-run non-profit, so every dollar you spend here goes back into the community. Win-win!
Aurora Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
It's open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights - find out what's playing on its Facebook page.
If you've never heard of Aurora's Plainsman Museum, you're in for a pleasant surprise. This fascinating museum is a step back into Aurora's - and America's - past.
Plainsman Museum/Google Local
See the types of homes and tools that Indigenous people and European settlers used, learn all about the early days of the town, and explore some interesting bits of history. Find out more about this hidden gem on their website.
For a small town, Aurora has a wide selection of accommodations to choose from. Spend the night in a locally-owned property like the Otto House for a truly unique experience.
The Otto House/Airbnb
The century-plus-old dwelling is a gorgeous example of the town's historic homes. You can rent the entire house for up to nine people if you're traveling in a group, or just one room if you're flying solo or with a partner. See the Airbnb listing for the Otto House, or for the adorable carriage house - located behind the main house.

There are so many more local businesses, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly attractions in the area that we couldn’t possibly list them all here. Check out the town’s website to learn a little more, and watch the video below, but really, the best way to discover Aurora is just to visit.

Have you uncovered Aurora, one of Nebraska’s hidden gem towns? Tell us all about it in the comments!

What other little towns would you like to see featured here? Nominate them on our nomination form and you may see them featured in a future article.

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More to Explore

Things to Do In Nebraska

Sara Dager | March 10, 2023

What are some of the best small towns in Nebraska? 

There are so many charming small towns in Nebraska, and some of them that you absolutely must visit include:

  • Cortland in Gage County is home to just under 500 people, but also to over 40 businesses. Definitely make some time to visit Sleepy Bees Lavender Farm.
  • Ashland offers wildlife safaris, a zipline park, and a fantastic aerospace museum. Your time here will be packed full of fun!
  • McCook has a great performing arts theater, a charming museum, a library that's over 100 years old, and to top it all off, the only Frank Lloyd Wright-designed house in the state.

 

Are there any good road trips through Nebraska? 

A great way to see all that the state has to offer is to take a road trip through Nebraska. Take a look at some of the best options for hitting the open road:

  • The natural wonders in Nebraska road trip is about 14 hours long with ten stops including waterfalls, mountains, rock formations, and more.
  • The ghost towns in Nebraska road trip will send a chill up your spine but is well worth it as you'll see six ghost towns in twelve hours of driving.
  • The haunted places in Nebraska road trip is oh so spooky! Perfect for a long weekend this trip requires 14 hours of driving, but on the way you will see haunted buildings, restaurants, and a hotel where you can spend the night.

 

Which are the best spots to go hiking in Nebraska? 

To take in all the gorgeous nature of the Cornhusker State, you have to go hiking in Nebraska. Some of the most beautiful spots for a good trek are:

  • Cowboy Trail in Valentine-Norfolk used to be a railroad corridor and when completed will be over 300 miles! But you can just pick a small chunk of it to do and still get a lot out of it.
  • Olson Nature Preserve in Boone County looks straight out of a fantasy novel and features six unique ecosystems to explore.
  • Scotts Bluff National Monument in Scottsbluff was a part of the Oregon trail and you can see evidence of its history during your visit!

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Aurora, NE 68818, USA