Aurora MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Aurora, Minnesota.
1. Giants Ridge
FOUR-SEASON OUTDOOR RECREATION
Giants Ridge is a premier recreational destination near Aurora offering biking, cross-country skiing, alpine skiing, and golfing throughout the year. The facility hosts numerous events and provides outdoor enthusiasts with activities regardless of the season. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of northern Minnesota while participating in their favorite recreational pursuits.
2. Superior National Forest Scenic Byway
WILDERNESS DRIVE TO LAKE SUPERIOR
The Superior National Forest Scenic Byway begins in Aurora and offers a serene wilderness drive all the way to Lake Superior. This scenic route allows travelers to experience the pristine natural beauty of Minnesota's northwoods and connects Aurora to Lake Superior. The byway serves as a gateway to exploration of the vast Superior National Forest region.
3. St. James Mine Pit Lake Trail
FORMER MINE, SCENIC TRAIL
The St. James Mine Pit trail circles a former mine pit now filled with water, offering a unique glimpse into the region's mining history. In summer, visitors can cycle or walk along this super scenic trail that connects to the larger Mesabi Trail system. During winter months, the trail is groomed for cross-country skiing, making it a year-round recreational asset.
4. Mesabi Trail
PAVED MULTI-USE TRAIL
The Mesabi Trail has a spur that enters Aurora, connecting the town to the broader trail system that spans much of Minnesota's Iron Range. This paved trail provides cyclists, walkers, and runners with a scenic route through the northern Minnesota landscape. The trail showcases the region's natural beauty while connecting communities across the Mesabi Range.
5. Aurora Sportsmans Club
RIFLE AND ARCHERY RANGES
The Aurora Sportsmans Club features rifle and archery ranges for outdoor shooting enthusiasts. The club hosts various events throughout the year, providing opportunities for both competitive and recreational shooting. Visitors can practice their marksmanship skills in a dedicated facility that serves the local sporting community.
6. ATV Trail System
CONNECTED WOODLAND TRAILS
Aurora's ATV trail system connects to neighboring communities, offering riders an extensive network of scenic wooded routes to explore. The trails link Aurora to Biwabik in the west and Hoyt Lakes to the east, with connecting routes that allow for all-day riding adventures. These well-maintained trails showcase the region's forested landscape while providing recreation for ATV enthusiasts.
7. Snowmobile Trail Network
WINTER ADVENTURE TRAILS
Snowmobile trails lead from Aurora to virtually anywhere in the northeast part of Minnesota, creating an extensive winter recreation network. Local dedicated clubs maintain these trails, ensuring quality riding conditions throughout the snowy season. Winter visitors can experience the pristine snow-covered landscape while traveling between communities and attractions.
8. US Hockey Hall of Fame Museum
CELEBRATING HOCKEY HERITAGE
The US Hockey Hall of Fame Museum in nearby Eveleth celebrates America's hockey history with extensive exhibits and memorabilia. Visitors can explore displays highlighting prominent players, teams, and moments that shaped the sport in the United States. The museum honors Minnesota's significant contribution to hockey at all levels from youth programs to Olympic and professional competition.
9. Greyhound Bus Museum
TRANSPORTATION HISTORY COLLECTION
The Greyhound Bus Museum in Hibbing showcases the history of America's iconic intercity bus service that originated in the Iron Range. Visitors can view vintage buses, photographs, uniforms, and memorabilia documenting the evolution of bus travel in the United States. The museum tells the story of how a small northern Minnesota transportation company grew into a nationwide network connecting Americans across the country.
10. Patriotic Days Celebration
ANNUAL JULY COMMUNITY EVENT
Aurora's Patriotic Days is an annual celebration held each July that brings the community together. The event features food, entertainment, and activities for visitors of all ages. This traditional summer gathering showcases the town's community spirit and provides a festive atmosphere for both residents and visitors.
11. Pumpkinfest
OCTOBER HARVEST CELEBRATION
Pumpkinfest is held the second Saturday in October and features food, games, wagon rides, and pumpkins for all attendees. This family-friendly autumn celebration embraces the harvest season with activities throughout the day. The festival has become a beloved tradition for Aurora residents and draws visitors from surrounding communities.
12. Mine Overlooks
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE VIEWPOINTS
Throughout the Iron Range, including near Aurora, visitors can find mine overlooks offering views of both active and reclaimed mining operations. These viewpoints provide interpretation of the region's crucial role in producing iron ore for America's industrial development. The overlooks offer glimpses into the massive scale of open-pit mining that shaped the landscape and economy of northern Minnesota.
13. Historical Society Museums
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTIONS
Quaint historical society museums dot the Iron Range communities, preserving local stories and artifacts from the region's rich past. These museums showcase the diverse cultural heritage of the area, including mining, logging, and immigrant histories. Visitors can discover authentic exhibits featuring photographs, tools, household items, and personal stories from generations of Iron Range residents.
14. Giants Ridge Golf Courses
PREMIER NORTHERN GOLF DESTINATION
Giants Ridge features premiere golf courses that have earned national recognition for their exceptional design and beautiful north woods setting. Golfers can enjoy challenging play amid dramatic elevation changes, pristine forests, and scenic water features. The courses offer a world-class golfing experience just a short distance from Aurora.
15. Superior National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS RECREATION AREA
The Superior National Forest surrounds the Aurora area with over three million acres of public lands offering countless outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can explore hiking trails, fishing spots, camping areas, and paddling routes throughout this massive forest ecosystem. The forest provides habitat for diverse wildlife and represents one of the largest wilderness areas in the eastern United States.