Explore Downtown Aurora’s History / Story Map
Downtown Aurora features all the traits that a resident could possibly love about a neighbourhood. If you need a night out, there are quaint restaurants along the bustling Yonge and Wellington intersection, and if you need some retail therapy, you can find both boutique shops, fantastic spa services, and the Aurora Farmers’ Market, all within walking distance. If you need relaxing time, Downtown Aurora features Machell’s Alley, a unique open-air seating space, walking distance to Town Park, host of many festivals and entertainment, and for a new experience, visit the exciting Aurora Town Square, the brand new catalyst for Downtown revitalization! Welcome!
The unique story of Downtown Aurora
A vibrant hub nestled in the heart of York Region, Ontario, Aurora is rich with history and unique charm. Its story begins in the early 19th century followed by tremendous growth when the historic railway stretched from Toronto the north, and then embraced a renaissance driven through a community-focused vision. Today, Downtown Aurora stands as a testament to the Town’s enduring spirit. It is a place where history meets the modern world, and the community comes together to celebrate its past and build a bright future!
Explore more through the unique and interactive Downtown Aurora Story Map. Click the button below to discover Aurora’s past, present and future!
Explore Downtown Aurora’s History
Downtown Projects
There is great momentum with current projects that will create further interest in helping to create Downtown Aurora as a destination. The most talked-about project is Aurora Town Square, currently underway.
| Aurora Town Square |
The Aurora Town Square Project is the largest capital infrastructure project the Town has ever embarked on and will serve as a catalyst for downtown revitalization. It is the culmination of years of planning that demonstrates that strategic municipal investment in the downtown will leverage further investment, foster employment opportunities and support downtown resilience. |
| New! Machell's Alley |
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‘Machell’s Alley’ is a transformed vacant lot into a vibrant gathering space in the heart of Downtown Aurora’s historic district. It is as an open-air seating space for Downtown patrons to enjoy local food and entertainment. The location at 15217 Yonge Street was originally the home of the Town’s Blacksmith and Ironworks shop, and named “Machell’s Alley” as a nod to all of the early trailblazing entrepreneurs in the area. The history of 15217 Yonge Street
The location has a fascinating history being the site of a blacksmith shop in the 1870s. This early shop was torn down and a new building erected in 1908 which housed Phillip De La Haye’s Blacksmith Shop, John Morning’s Garage, Wilson’s Hardware, North York Heating, Plumbing and Electrical, and finally a second-hand furniture store before being torn down in 1991. |
| Aurora Armoury |
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The Aurora Armoury (89 Mosley St), located at the edge of Town Park, is a unique gathering and event hosting space transformed from an Armoury under the Department of National Defense. The Armoury is a heritage structure that represents a significant piece of Canadian and Auroran heritage. The property was restored into a creative, state-of-the-art culinary space being led by Niagara College and is an excellent space for weddings, events or private functions. If you haven’t been by to see this amazing space, and experience their food, you are in for a treat! |
While the transformation of Downtown Aurora will not be overnight, there is clear interest and momentum building. Collectively, these projects are designed to create Downtown Aurora as a destination for art, culture, culinary and creative economies.
Interested in becoming part of Downtown Aurora’s future?
Contact us – ecdev@aurora.ca
