Top Places to See When Driving From Aurora, Colorado to Brighton, Colorado

Colorado is famously known for its stunning scenic drives and picturesque landscapes. The journey from Aurora to Brighton might be short, but the array of natural beauty and cultural sights is boundless. From hidden gems to popular attractions, this route offers a perfect blend of leisure and entertainment. Here are some of the top places to see when driving from Aurora, Colorado, to Brighton, Colorado.

1. Barr Lake State Park

The Barr Lake State Park is undoubtedly a nature lover's paradise, stretching over 12,000 acres. The park offers visitors a chance to escape from the bustling city life and immerse themselves in Colorado's natural wonders. The park is home to an array of wildlife species, including coyotes, mule deer, and prairie dogs. Barr Lake also boasts a 10-mile trail that encompasses the park's wetlands, offering a perfect bird-watching spot. Anglers frequent the lake, searching for a catch and release of a variety of fish species such as walleye, smallmouth bass, and catfish.

2. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

Located only a few miles from Aurora, the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is a site of cultural significance. It once housed a military chemical weapons manufacturing plant and was listed as a Superfund site. Today, the area has been transformed into a wildlife refuge, which is home to a vast variety of fauna and flora species. Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive through the prairie to spot bison, deer, pronghorns, and coyotes.

3. The Longacre Theatre Company

The Brighton Armory Performing Arts Centre is the home of the Longacre Theatre Company, a non-profit organization that specializes in promoting community-based theatre events. The theatre company offers regular performances throughout the year, including musicals, comedies, and dramas. The theatre's atmosphere is intimate, providing an up-close and personal theatre experience that leaves guests with a memorable experience.

4. Lulu's Farm

Lulu's Farm is a family-owned agricultural operation that sits on 34 acres of land. The farm offers visitors the chance to explore agriculture practices such as corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and hayrides. Lulu's Farm is a perfect destination for families with kids, offering them the opportunity to interact with farm animals such as cows, pigs, and goats. Visitors can also indulge in farm-fresh produce, local honey, and tasty treats from the farm's bakery.

5. Brighton Oasis Family Aquatic Park

Located in the heart of Brighton, the Brighton Oasis Family Aquatic Park is a water park that has become a go-to destination for families and individuals alike. The park boasts a 25-meter pool, a lazy river, water slides, and a splash pad. The park's water slides will make the adrenaline junkie in you happy while the lazy river is perfect for a more tranquil experience. If you get hungry, there is a concession stand that offers snacks, cold drinks, and other refreshments.

Conclusion

The drive from Aurora to Brighton is a picture-perfect, short expedition that offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Colorado's natural and cultural gems. From bird-watching in Barr Lake, exploring agricultural practices at Lulu's Farm to enjoying a performance at the Longacre Theatre Company, there is something for everyone. The journey culminates with a splash at the Brighton Oasis Family Aquatic Park, offering a perfect end to an exciting trip.