Poonam's By Design

Instead of just settling for the usual dinner-and-a-movie routine, why not dress it up a bit? Put on your best evening attire and get ready for truly classy (and classical) entertainment when you visit the Gateway Performing Arts Center. This impressive venue is the home of the Aurora Symphony Orchestra, and the group frequently performs various works by well-known composers year round. The Center is located on the campus of Gateway Senior High School in Aurora.

The High Line Canal trail is rather lengthy at 67 miles, but it offers an incredible variety of different scenery that will make your hike even more invigorating. This trek is part of a much larger trail system owned and operated by Denver Water. Access to the recreation trail can be found at Expo Park, Highline Park, Aurora Municipal Center, DeLaney Farm, and Norfolk Glen Park. Runners and walkers beware, as the trail allows horses in the High Line Canal area.

The Denver Zoo has a pedigree almost as impressive as those of the animals it houses. Established in 1896, the facility is by far the city's most popular attraction as it welcomes over one million visitors every year. You'll find over 4,000 animals here that represent 700 species. See leopards, king cobras, black rhinos, coral reef fish, elephants, zebras, vampire bats, gorillas and much more. The kids will also enjoy the petting areas and highly informative special exhibits scattered throughout this highly entertaining venue.

William Smith was an Aurora pioneer who went from raising sheep on his humble property to eventually founding Aurora's Public Schools and donating the land for Del Mar Park. See where this prominent Aurora figure lived by visiting the William Smith House that was built in 1910 and named a landmark in 1986. The home remained in the family until 1983 when Smith's daughter Margaret, passed away. The house is now a privately owned residence, but you can still stroll by and snap photos from the sidewalk.