Aurora

Phillips Park
1000 Moses Dr.

There's a golf course, a lake, some neat gardens, and a small free zoo filled specifically with North American animals.

Blackberry Farm
100 S. Barnes Rd.

A living history museum of 19th century life spread out over 54 acres with a lake, ponds, a stream, and an arboretum.

The Grand Army of the Republic Hall
23 E. Downer Place

Built as a monument to Aurora's Civil War veterans in 1878, it's now a small structure next to the library that sticks out in its antiquity.

Aurora Regional Fire Museum
Corner of New York & Broadway

A collection of unique firefighting memorabilia set in Aurora's old Central Fire Station, built in 1894.

The Walter Payton Museum
18 W. Benton St.

An exhibit of Payton's entire life, from his football career high school to pro, including his Super Bowl XX ring to his auto racing and music interests.

SciTech Hands-On Museum
18 W. Benton St.

An engaging museum for kids that's rarely crowded. You can park in the nearby garage for free if the museum stamps your ticket.

David L. Pierce Art & History Center
20 E. Downer

The Aurora Public Art Commission hosts eight to 10 rotating exhibits displaying a full spectrum of innovative arts. The History Center has a collection of photographs, books, maps and other memorabilia. There is also a gift shop.

Schingoethe Center for Native American Cultures
347 S. Gladstone Ave.

A museum on the campus of Aurora University with 4 major exhibits on native peoples.

African-American Heritage Museum & Black Veterans Archives
126 S. Kendall St.

Hundreds of sculptures of figures from African-American history displayed in the yard of Dr. Charles Smith's former home.

Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple of Greater Chicago
1145 W. Sullivan Rd.

A breathtaking example of whitewashed Indian temple craftsmanship. Don't worry about going and taking pictures - everyone else is doing it too.

Paramount Arts Center
22 E. Galena Blvd.

Home to "Broadway in the Burbs," this lovingly restored Art Deco movie palace presents live entertainment by world-class performers, plays, touring musicals and other special events.

William Tanner House
Corner of Oak & Cedar

Built in 1857, this Italianate-style house was the home to prominent merchant William Tanner and his family. The house features high ceilings, oak grained woodwork, ornate plaster decoration, and antique furnishings.