One of my favorite quick getaway places is Aurora, Ill.  It is less than an hour west of Chicago, but I always feel like I have really gotten away from it all.

ID 50837522 © Jim Roberts | Dreamstime.com

A couple weeks ago, I experienced Hair at the Paramount Theatre.  It was incredible.  For the first time in its 80-year history, Paramount put on its own shows.  They have their own orchestra now.  It was moving, riveting, funny, and the talent was amazing.  I have seen all four Broadway shows there and each was great.

They have a calendar full of shows scheduled throughout 2012.  I am looking forward to Grease, which starts on Sept. 12 and is part of the second Broadway series.  Also in that Broadway series are Annie, The Music Man and The Fiddler on the Roof.

With such beautiful weather, we wanted to spend extra time in Aurora; therefore, we stayed at the Comfort Suites in the downtown area.  The hotel was comfortable, quiet and clean, along with having an interesting train-themed lobby.  It is also within walking distance of all of the attractions in downtown Aurora.

Across the river is Ballydoyle Irish Pub and Restaurant.  A trip to Aurora is not complete without enjoying a boxty here.  The chicken and spinach is my favorite.

Other dining choices included wonderful vegetable lasagna at Two Brothers Roundhouse.  They feature local and organic ingredients and specialty beers.  The River’s Edge Café is another outstanding restaurant.  I enjoyed their tangy barbecue pulled chicken sandwich while overlooking the Fox River.  Finally, Chef Amaury’s at 33 West provided an elegant and eclectic, fine dining experience.  The risotto is a creamy delight, and the mushroom ravioli was wonderful.

In addition to fantastic theater, Aurora has plenty of other fun events throughout the year, such as the Amped Up Adventure Race Series (May 27), Blues on the Fox (June 15–16) and more.  A full list of the area attractions, plus other information about hotels, shopping and transportation, can be found at the Aurora Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.  Additionally, by “following” the Aurora Area CVB on Facebook, you will regularly get updates and great offers.

I really love the whole Aurora area and try to get there as often as I can.  Even the ride out there is relaxing and full of beautiful scenery.  What more could I want?

— John Wroblewski, online contributor