Small Town Charm with Big Appeal: Why You Should Visit (or Move to) Aurora, Oregon

If you’ve ever daydreamed about settling into a slower pace of life with charm, history, and great coffee at your fingertips—Aurora, Oregon just might be your spot.

Founded in 1856 as a Christian communal colony (before Oregon was even a state!), Aurora is now known for its antique shops, rich rural scenery, and the kind of small-town warmth you can’t fake. Whether you’re visiting for the day or thinking about making a move to the North Willamette Valley, here’s why Aurora should be on your list.

Local Favorite: White Rabbit Bakery

Tucked in the heart of town, White Rabbit Bakery is a staple for locals and a must-stop for visitors. With gluten-free goodies, tasty sandwiches, and plenty of fresh coffee, this cozy spot has been a favorite of mine since my son was a baby. It’s casual, friendly, and always delicious.

Treasure Hunting at Aurora Mills Architectural Salvage

If you love old things with character—or just like to browse—Aurora Mills Architectural Salvage is the place to be. It’s packed with architectural details, quirky finds, and vintage charm that can bring any home project to life. You could spend hours exploring here, and you’ll probably find a piece of treasure to take home.

A Taste of Wine Country: Pheasant Run Winery

Yes, Aurora has wine too! Pheasant Run Winery Tasting Room is located in a historic old bank building right in town. It’s a fantastic place to sip local wines and get a taste of the small-but-mighty wine culture that’s been growing in this corner of Clackamas County.

Don’t Miss: Filbert’s Farmhouse Kitchen

Wrap up your Aurora visit with a meal at Filbert’s Farmhouse Kitchen, located in the beautifully restored 1865 Muhler Farmhouse. The food is as thoughtfully crafted as the historic setting. Great presentation, great flavors, and the perfect way to close out your day.

The Aurora Lifestyle

Living near Aurora—whether in town or nearby communities like Canby, Wilsonville, or Oregon City—means having access to all the charm and culture of Aurora without giving up convenience. From antique weekends to wine tastings and scenic drives, there’s a lot to love about this slice of the North Willamette Valley.

If you're looking to relocate or just want to explore the quality of life that Clackamas County has to offer, Aurora should definitely be on your radar.

Want to learn more about life in Aurora or the surrounding towns? I’m Jennifer Schurter, a local real estate expert who lives, works, and plays right here in the heart of Oregon’s North Willamette Valley. Let’s connect.