Play — Aurora Downtown

DLP Art and History Center

One of the oldest buildings in downtown Aurora is home to both the Aurora Historical Society and the Aurora Public Art Commission. The David L. Pierce Art and History Center at 20 E. Downer Pl. is a three-story limestone-faced structure that was restored and reopened to the public as a museum in 1996; it was renamed in honor of the former mayor in 2003.

Visit art exhibits on the first and third floors and stop by the incredible “Aurora Story” exhibit on the second floor.

The museum is open Wed-Sat from noon to 4 p.m. and on First Fridays from 6 to 9 p.m. It is free to visit the museum. Donations are appreciated.

Address:
20 E. Downer Pl.

G.A.R. Memorial Museum

The Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall and Museum at 23 E. Downer Place in downtown Aurora has reopened to the public after a 20-year restoration effort. The GAR Hall first opened in Aurora in 1878, built as a community tribute to the area men who fought in the Civil War. The Museum is filled with unique exhibits on the Civil War and the GAR, on the brave local soldiers who joined in the fight, and on everyday life in post-Civil War America. The GAR Memorial Museum is open seasonally – at no charge – on Saturdays from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Museum also is open for Aurora’s monthly First Fridays from 6 to 8 p.m. Group tours can be arranged Wednesday-Friday by appointment. For more information, call (630) 256-INFO.

Address:
23 E. Downer Pl.

The Yetee Station

Yetee Station operates as a FREE PLAY arcade. What does that mean? A $15 admission gets you in the door all day, no quarters needed! This allows you to play all of our games as many times as you would like.

Save your receipt, grab some food at any of the various restaurants downtown, and come on back for same day re-entry.

Address:
155 E. New York St, Aurora, IL 60505

Paramount Theater

Paramount Theatre is an exquisite and historical entertainment hall accommodating nearly daily productions. Named one of the Top Ten Theatres in Chicago by the League of Chicago Theatres, the beautiful 1,843-seat theater, graced with a strong 1930s Art Deco influence and original Venetian décor, nationally known for its high-quality productions, superb acoustics and historic grandeur, has been downtown Aurora’s anchor attraction since 1931.

After launching its own Broadway Series in 2011, Paramount Theatre grew to be the second largest subscription house in the U.S. Before Covid, more than 41,000 subscribers from all over Chicagoland and the Midwest were enjoying Paramount’s critically acclaimed, 2019-20 Broadway-caliber productions. In addition, Paramount also presents an array of internationally known comedians, music stars, dance events and family shows annually.

Address:
23 E. Galena Blvd

Copley Theater Aurora

Home of the Paramount Theatre's BOLD Series. Conveniently located across the street from the Paramount Theatre in downtown Aurora, the Copley Theatre features the innovative Bold Series, started in 2022. The intimate theater is located upstairs at North Island Center, 8 E. Galena Blvd., in downtown Aurora. For more information, visit ParamountAurora.com, call (630) 896-6666, or stop by the Paramount box office, 23 E. Galena Blvd. in downtown Aurora, Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Address:
8 E. Galena Blvd.

Stolp Island Theatre

Four Legends. One Night. Music History Made.

You may have loved Million Dollar Quartet in 2017 at Paramount Theatre – now imagine it set in Sun Studio itself. The new Stolp Island Theatre was designed to immerse you in the experience so you can say “I was there!”

OYou’ll experience the highs and lows of these four legends as they navigate the intricacies of fame, and the personal price they pay to live the dream.

5 E. Downer

Riverfront Playhouse

The Riverfront Playhouse is a tucked away treasure in downtown Aurora. Located along the bricked Water Street Mall, this local theatre company operates year-round providing entertainment nearly every weekend presenting comedies, murder mysteries, thrillers and original plays and some children’s productions. Ticket discounts available on Facebook and Foursquare. Check out their website or social media pages for the current offering.
Visit Site!

Address:
11-13 S. Water Street Mall
Aurora

A.K.A. Dance

AKA Dance strives to maintain a high level of dance technique and knowledge while building confidence and a healthy body image for children of all ages. Our vision is to create strong dancers that can succeed in the world of dance and to offer opportunities to children who otherwise would not have the access to studio quality teaching. We believe dance instructors have the responsibility to not only build strong technical dancers but also have a hand in raising well rounded, compassionate adults who will grow to make an impact on whichever path they choose.

Address:
80 S. River St.

Basement of the Dead

“Basement of the Dead haunted house in Aurora Illinois which is just outside of Chicago Illinois is simply put one of the BEST haunted houses in the country. Their attraction features some of the scariest actors, crazies scenes, and amazing set design, plus one of the industries best 3D haunted houses.Now sit back and read all about the best haunted house in the Chicago Illinois area The Basement of the Dead.”

Located across the bridge from Hollywood Casino and behind Ballydoyle Irish Pub in the Court Yard.

Address:
42 W. New York St.

Nuna Ceramics

We believe wholeheartedly in the value and benefits of handcrafted programs in every community. We aim to nurture a creative community where self exploration is encouraged through thought-provoking, modern, and contemporary art. Our goal is to provide a safe space for experienced, emerging, and curious artist alike. Nuna will be a haven for those who'd like to explore an inventive side of themselves, where imagination knows no boundaries.

Address:
77 South Lake Street

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Paramount School of the Arts

The new Paramount School of the Arts is housed in the John C. Dunham Aurora Arts Center located next to Paramount Theatre in Downtown Aurora. The Dunham Aurora Arts Center will also include new rehearsal space for the Broadway Series, guest artist apartments, a restaurant and affordable artist housing.

The new school facility will include over 20 private studios, large classroom spaces, a dance studio and the beautiful new Studio Theatre, a flexible performance space which doubles as a dance studio and classroom. The school will be the home to students of all ages and ability to study both privately and in a group setting.

Address:
77 South Lake Street

Simply Destinee

Simply Destinee is a youth inspired Dance Team that promotes suicide awareness in Memory of Destinee A. Oliva. We are a 501(c)3, self funded, not for profit organization. We are dedicated to caring for Aurora’s youth to inspire positive development in their lives, their families, and the community. We strive to help our youth overcome everyday challenges.

Address:
122 W Downer Pl #124

The Venue

The Venue is a live music room in downtown Aurora run by the nonprofit Fox Valley Music Foundation. Located at 21 S. Broadway, the restored historic building is home to incredible Blues, rock 'n' roll, Americana, jazz, and singer songwriter performances. The intimate room features a bar and reserved cabaret-style seating along with general admission tickets. The Venue is known for its impeccable sound and is often dubbed as a listening room, although the dance floor can get hot when there is a swinging band on the stage. Visit The Venue for live music on most Friday and Saturday nights. A full calendar is available at themusicvenue.org.

Address:
21 S. Broadway

Waubonsee Community College

Located in the heart of downtown Aurora, this 132,000-square-foot campus allows students to earn a complete associate degree at this one facility, along with accessing a wide array of student services.

At Waubonsee, we believe that learning is a lifelong process, and we’ve created a place where students just like you can pursue knowledge and enhance their lives through education.

Founded in 1966, Waubonsee Community College is preparing learners for success in the 21st century by raising student achievement through academic quality and technological innovation. We focus on personal, experiential learning to help students adapt to the changing needs of business, industry and society. Our college emphasizes a culture of diversity and global understanding. And we are committed to the future of our students, our colleagues, our institution and our community.

Address:
18 S River St

Zen Loft Wellness Center

We are a cooperative~minded wellness center that is home to 15+ small businesses that are passionate about their trade and serving their community! We are dedicated to providing a variety of yoga classes, belly dance, aerial yoga, reiki, and therapeutic massage to the Aurora community for a more holistic lifestyle. We offer an open space for workshops, free community events, and artistic expression. Instructors, students, and clients alike love to be a part of our mission to bring peace, learning, and wellness to the City of Aurora

Address:
6 W. Downer Pl.