At the doorstep of the Rocky Mountains a community flourishes, anchored by progress, innovation, and diversity. Welcome to Aurora, Colorado, The Gateway to the Rockies. Here, you’ll find a bustling community of cultural leaders, culinary prodigies, and technological marvels. A place where natural beauty merges with innovation, inclusion, and responsible growth. Connecting the spirit of the western frontier to the vision of tomorrow, here are the stories of our neighbors.

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Colorado Freedom Memorial

The Colorado Freedom Memorial is the first memorial in the United States dedicated to all wars and all branches of service containing the names of all those who died from a single state in those wars. Founder and executive director Rick Crandall discusses the poignant components of this one-of-a-kind memorial and plans for a new education visitors center.

DAVA

DAVA (Downtown Aurora Visual Arts) engages diverse youth in meaningful arts education that sparks creativity, increases opportunity & strengthens the community. With almost 30 years of proven success in keeping kids learning and achieving in northern Aurora, Colorado, the most culturally diverse neighborhood in the state of Colorado. DAVA welcomes you to celebrate youth voices in our vibrant multicultural community.

12 Mile Stables

Tap into the spirit of Colorado’s history at 12 Mile Stables. Rancher Gary Reiber and his team lead guided horse-riding tours on more than 27 miles of trails and 3,000 acres of open space in Cherry Creek State Park. An ideal activity for families, and those with a desire to have an authentic western adventure. Their sunset ride complete with dinner is a must!

Village Exchange Center

This non-profit provides resources and services for 20% of Aurora’s population comprised of immigrants and refugees. VEC celebrates cultural and faith diversity and has become an anchor in the community for support and empowerment. Their Village Farm at Stanley supplies healthy food to the community and serves as a shining example of community caring for the entire Rocky Mountain region.

Create Kitchen And Bar

The ultimate date night or fun for the entire family. Elite chefs teach you how to cook world-class cuisine. Create Kitchen and Bar inside Stanley Marketplace merges culinary arts with high-value entertainment. Chefs Ras and Diego take us on a tour of this Aurora gem.

The Local

From a popular farmer’s market to a brick-and-mortar staple, Jill and Jason Williams bring Colorado artistry and craftmanship into the spotlight at The Local. Whether you’re looking for the perfect souvenir or Colorado-themed gift, The Local in Southlands Lifestyle Center is filled with treats, clothing, salsas, handmade goods, and other items made from businesses in Aurora and throughout Colorado. From hats and handbags to sweet popcorn and green chili, you'll find it at The Local.

Filmed by Brende. For more episodes, check out Visit Aurora's YouTube Channel