The charming Iron Range town of Aurora, MN is a place that seems frozen in a time where community and civic pride were important, which lends a sense of nostalgia to this little villages. One would not be faulted for thinking of Aurora as a bit of an old-fashioned town in Minnesota. But take it from me, while it retains some of these old-fashioned values, you’ll find plenty to do, see, and enjoy in this awesome, Up North community.

Aurora is small town on the Iron Range of a little less than 2,000 people.
City of Aurora, MN
The town, which was founded around the turn of the 19th century, is surrounded by the Superior National Forest.
City of Aurora, MN
This means it offers easy access to all the recreational opportunities that the forest affords, like hiking, biking, birding, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and off-roading.
The downtown area is compact and walkable, and the streets are lined with local businesses.
Bjoertvedt/Wikimedia Commons
The town hosts several community events throughout the year, like Patriotic Days around the Fourth of July.
Celebrate Aurora/Facebook
The annual Pumpkin Fest is another favorite that brings the community together.
Celebrate Aurora/Facebook
Despite its small size, the town is home to several parks offering amenities that range from hiking and bike trails to ball fields and a splash pad.
City of Aurora, MN

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Aurora is also a hub for the Mesabi Trail.
City of Aurora, MN
With more than 130 miles of paved pathway, the Mesabi Trail is one of the state's premier multi-use trails.
Start your day with a coffee and a baked treat from The Hive Coffee and Bakeshop.
The Hive Coffee And Bakeshop, 103 N Main St, Aurora, MN 55705, USA
Scot Egg/Google Reviews
The Hive roasts its beans in small batches as needed, so its coffee drinks hit just right. The shop also offers smoothies if you're looking for something with less kick.
For a heartier breakfast or lunch, Megan's Family Restaurant is the place to go.
Megan's Family Restaurant, 114 N Main St, Aurora, MN 55705, USA
Brandon Wigboldy/Google Reviews
When dinner time rolls around or if you're looking to wet your whistle, you won't be disappointed with Aurora's offerings.
Copper Nickel, 111 N Main St, Aurora, MN 55705, USA
Google Street View
Stop into Copper Nickel Pub, a newer favorite among local diners.
Rudy's Bar and Grill is also a sure bet for a drink and a stick-to-the-ribs meal.
Rudy's Bar & Grill, 116 N Main St N, Aurora, MN 55705, USA
Rudy's Bar and Grill/Google Reviews
Rudy's menu is available on the eatery's website.
Oh, and did I mention that Aurora is only a couple miles from one of the state's premier skiing and recreation areas?
Giants Ridge Recreation Area, 6329 Wynne Creek Dr, Biwabik, MN 55708, USA
Giants Ridge/Facebook
That's right — Giants Ridge Recreation Area, with all its top-notch golf, skiing, and mountain biking facilities, is just minutes from Aurora.

A visit to Aurora may feel like a bit like a trip to a more nostalgic time, but be warned: You may not want to leave after spending some time there. Given its location near some of the state’s premier recreation spots, you won’t have any trouble finding a vacation rental in the area. So, what do you think – road trip, anyone?

Have you visited Aurora? Tell us about your experience in the comments, and let us know about some of your favorite small towns in Minnesota that remind you of a simpler time.

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