Aurora's Got a New Attraction

Unless you live there, going to Aurora is not exactly convenient. It has nicknames based on the fact that it's kind of far from central Denver, and if you live in the city of Denver or you're visiting downtown, Aurora is probably not making it on your list of places to go. Stanley Marketplace should give you reason to reconsider.

Located at a former manufacturing site, the Stanley Aviation warehouse has been renovated to hold more than 50 restaurants, boutiques, a salon, fitness studios and an event space. It is not a mall, and you will not find a Forever 21 or Victoria's Secret. The focus at Stanley is on creating a community gathering place, and the thoughtful selection of local businesses is an interesting variety with a sense of originality. In addition to new brands and concepts, there are outposts of well-known local favorites including Comida, Denver Biscuit Company, Sweet Cow, and Kindness Yoga. Rosenberg’s and Infinite Monkey Theorem just opened last week.

The space is 140,000 square feet of industrial coolness, and every proprietor we talked to was incredibly welcoming and excited to be there. Although there's still construction in progress and not all of the businesses are open yet, the area was buzzing with office workers out for lunch, families strolling the halls, and plenty of digital nomad types working on laptops over coffee.

We spent a sunny Friday afternoon with a quinoa bowl and some wine at the charming Annette, an American-style, "scratch-to-table" restaurant. It was delicious. 

Stanley Marketplace is located at 2501 Dallas Street in Aurora. Hours vary for each business, but the hall is open from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM weekdays, and until 11:00 PM on weekends. Stanley also hosts special events including tours.

Ready to go exploring?