With a population of 4500, Aurora may not fit some people’s definition of a small town, but this Hamilton County town sure does feel like a small, tight-knit community where anyone can feel perfectly at home.
This sweet little town, located about an hour west of Lincoln, is a hidden gem in east-central Nebraska. It’s the county seat of Hamilton County and has always been a wonderful place to live and to visit.
Google Maps
The town is built up around the historic Hamilton County courthouse. From this angle you can really see the natural beauty and classic small-town layout of the town.
Facebook/Aurora Area Chamber and Development
This warm and welcoming community is well known for its year-round community events, including the summertime ARORN Days when the entire town comes out to celebrate the season and the city.
Facebook/Aurora Area Chamber and Development
There’s even an annual Civil War reenactment - something that you really don’t see very often in Nebraska!
By Ammodramus (Own work) [CC0], via Wikimedia Commons
Even when there are no special events going on, this is one lovely town to visit. Take a stroll along the beautiful brick streets and enjoy the sights. Many older buildings have been well preserved - this is a classic little Nebraska community centered on preservation, community, and family.
Facebook/Aurora Area Chamber and Development
This is such a great place to live that Hamilton County was recently named the best place to raise a family by Progressive Farmer Magazine.
By Ammodramus (Own work) [CC0], via Wikimedia Commons
There are several outdoor green spaces - approximately 70 total acres of parks, in fact - to get out and enjoy nature when the weather cooperates. (Even when it doesn’t, Aurora seems to really sparkle in the rain or snow.)
flickr/Jeffrey Beall
The Edgerton Explorit Center is one of the town’s most popular attractions. Inspired by Aurora native Harold “Doc” Edgerton, inventor of the strobe light, the hands-on science center lets kids explore and have fun in a unique environment.
TripAdvisor/apeters1088
The Plainsman Museum is another big draw. This fantastic indoor pioneer village is just one part of a large campus filled with awesome hands-on displays. This is the perfect place for families to explore Nebraska heritage and history.
Facebook/Plainsman Museum and Hamilton County Historical Society
There are plenty of restaurants in town to fill you up after you’ve had some serious fun. Espressions is a coffee shop and cafe with delicious sandwiches and other great treats.
Yelp/Chad K.
Enjoy some bowling and classic bowling alley food at the Overtime Bar and Grill.
Yelp/Erik O.
Read more about Aurora here at the city’s official website. Have you spent any time in Aurora? Tell us all about your experiences with this charming town in the comments!
Google Maps
Facebook/Aurora Area Chamber and Development
By Ammodramus (Own work) [CC0], via Wikimedia Commons
flickr/Jeffrey Beall
TripAdvisor/apeters1088
Facebook/Plainsman Museum and Hamilton County Historical Society
Yelp/Chad K.
Yelp/Erik O.
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