What did Aurora look like one million years ago? What kind of prehistoric creatures roamed in Aurora 65 million years ago? These and other fascinating questions are answered at the new Aurora History Museum’s exhibition showcasing Aurora’s oldest story, “Prehistoric Aurora,” opening today at the main museum gallery,15051 E. Alameda Parkway. While admission is free, donations are encouraged.
The Aurora History Museum has partnered with the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, University of Colorado Museum of Natural History, Dinosaur Ridge, scientists and local residents to provide tangible links to Aurora’s deep time in this exhibit which offers a captivating experience with something for everyone. Those visiting will discover the changing landscape of Aurora through time and learn about the kinds of creatures that would have been found in our city. The exhibition includes fossils found in the metro area, including Littleton’s T-Rex and Thorton’s Torosaurus.
“’Prehistoric Aurora’ is a journey through geologic time that will take you on a ride through the story of Earth’s ancient past to the present; showing some of the fossilized plants and animals discovered in Colorado and literally, right here in Aurora’s backyard,” said T. Scott Williams, director of the Aurora History Museum. “We hope that this immersive exhibit educates and excites visitors of all ages to explore the Aurora’s past and to imagine what life would have been like, when dinosaurs roamed the planet.”
The opening reception, open to the public, will take place at 1 p.m., Saturday, May 17 where the community is welcome to explore the ancient history of the city, learn about the artifacts, stories and art that are part of the exhibition and join the museum at thanking all the partners involved in the creation of the exhibit. To register for the reception, visit AuroraMuseum.org.
The new exhibition will run through April 5, 2026, and it comes with a series of educational programming for all ages during the year including a hands-on prehistoric Aurora themed summer camp for ages 8 to 16, from July 7 to 11. To learn more about the exhibit, visit AuroraMuseum.org.
About the Aurora History Museum
The Aurora History Museum opened in 1979. In 1990, it moved to its present location, reopened in 1991 and became a part of the city of Aurora Library and Cultural Services Department, the largest single provider of arts and culture programs in Aurora. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free. To stay up to date on related programming, call 303.739.6660 or visit AuroraMuseum.org.