Aurora is a city in Hamilton County, Nebraska, United States. It is located near the platte river and is part of the Grand Island, Nebraska Metropolitan Statistical Area. The population was 5,406 at the 2010 census.
Aurora was designed as a temperance town in 1871, when it was founded by Aaron Olmstead and named after his daughter, Aurora. It became an important center for railroad construction in the state and was a key shipping point for cattle in the late nineteenth century.
The town thrived until the Great Depression, when hard times hit the area. After World War II, the economy began to recover, and Aurora’s rich Czech heritage was further celebrated in festivals that feature food, music, and entertainment.
Today, Aurora is a small but vibrant community that serves as a retail and service hub for the region. The downtown area features several unique shops, restaurants, and galleries, and is home to a large public library. Aurora is also known for its summer festivals, which attract people from all over the state.
Interesting Facts About Aurora City
1. Aurora, Nebraska was named after the goddess of Aurora Borealis or the Northern Lights.
2. Aurora is the birthplace of S.D. Cornelius, the founder of the famous Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church.
3. Aurora is home to a variety of 18th century and Victorian-era homes and architecture that have been on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places since 1999.
4. There is an observatory located in the city where visitors can observe the night sky, planets, and stars.
5. The remains of a dinosaur named Tyrannosaurus Rex was discovered near Aurora.
6. Every summer, the Aurora Arts Council presents free concerts in the park, called the Aurora Summer Concert Series.
7. Every second Tuesday of the month, the city hosts a farmers' market - the Aurora Farmers' Market.
8. In 2008, Aurora was the first city in Nebraska to appoint an Animal Control Officer and create an Animal Control Ordinance.
9. At the bottom of the lake there lays a sunken car belonging to a man who drove his car across the frozen lake in the winter of 1991 and it broke through the ice.
10. Aurora is only 15 miles away from the world's largest underground natural gas storage facility, the E.J. Huggins Gas Storage Field.
What is Aurora known & Famous for
Aurora, Nebraska is a small town known for its rural charm and its community spirit. The area is known for its great schools, friendly people, and numerous recreational activities. Aurora is also known for its historic sites, outdoor attractions, art galleries, and the nearby homesteads.
What Is It Like To Visit In Aurora City?
Aurora is a small town in Hamilton County, Nebraska. It's known for its rich history, friendly people, and picturesque landscape. The surrounding area is home to several re-purposed bi-products of the lead mining industry, where visitors can learn the unique history of the area.
Visitors to Aurora can explore a range of activities. There are golf courses, hiking trails, and fishing in nearby lakes. History buffs will enjoy exploring the trails, museums, and monuments in the area. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy bird watching, kayaking, and more. The town also features a historic movie theater, bowling alley, and roller skating arena.
Guests can stay at the Aurora Hotel and Convention Center, which features a restaurant, lounge, and meeting spaces. The hotel also connects to the historic Center Street and downtown shopping area. Shopping options range from antiques, crafts, and fashion. There are a few restaurants and pubs serving up the local cuisine.
Aurora truly is the perfect place to escape and enjoy the beauty of Nebraska. By visiting Aurora you can explore great outdoor activities, learn about the history of the area, and experience the small-town lifestyle.