Susan S. BradleySleigh bells ring, are you listening? And they’re saying head to Historic Aurora Colony for a vintage lover’s leap into Christmas past.
An outing to Historic Aurora Colony, 23 miles south of downtown Portland, a mere 33-minute drive, is more than a pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
It’s a journey that will take you back in time 160 years to 1856, and land you in a beautifully preserved village that was founded by 600 German and Swiss Christian emigrants.
Today, there are thousands of descendants of these original colony members.
Colony descendants created the Aurora Colony Historical Society in 1963, along with a museum that opened in 1966.
And they continue to support the museum with recent donations of artifacts.
The historic houses and buildings you’ll see on your visit represent one of the largest concentration of structures built by German craftsmen in the Pacific Northwest.
Five buildings are part of the Old Aurora Colony Museum, with many others included in the Aurora Colony Historic Walking Tour.
For the holidays, Aurora’s 22 antique shops, art galleries, wineries, and tasting rooms are festooned with fresh cedar garlands, wreaths, sparkling lights and festive bows.
Far from the harried crowds at Portland malls, Aurora offers a relaxing reprieve from the inevitable stress of the holidays.
And you’re sure to find those unique gifts that are a skoch beyond the ordinary.
Such as this beautiful handcrafted tin and willow serving tray.
Or this tiny Santa Factory on wheels.
Or this vintage bugle for that horn player you love.
And of course something for your own sweet self.
Like this trio of shimmering, golden Santas.
Days & Hours of Operation
Holiday decorations extend through January 3rd. Most shops are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Some stores are closed on Mondays. All stores are open on Sundays. The Old Aurora Colony Museum is open through December 31st.
More Making Merry in Historic Aurora Colony
- Aurora Demographics
- City of Aurora, Oregon
- Old Aurora Colony
- Treat your Family to a Holiday Destination
- Aurora Colony Visitors Association on Facebook
- Aurora Arts Association
- Aurora Mills Architectural Salvage
- 99E Antique Mall
- The Feller House Bed & Breakfast
- Time After Time
- Timeless Antiques
- White Rabbit Bakery
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