I found a gem in the Midwest—Rockford, Illinois—and you’re going to love it too. When I wanted a mix of gardens, museums, and outdoor fun without spending a fortune, I headed to Rockford along the Rock River. You’ll feel the charm the moment you step into its parks or catch a local music festival. I loved how it offers peaceful moments in nature and bursts of culture around every corner. If you’re after an easygoing but exciting escape, you might find Rockford just right for you too.
Rockford, IL Highlights:
- If you love gardens like I do, don’t miss Anderson Japanese Gardens – You’ll feel instantly relaxed as you wander koi-filled ponds and calming waterfalls. I spent over an hour here and didn’t want to leave.
- When I brought the kids, Discovery Center Museum was a must – You and your family can explore over 300 interactive exhibits. I even had fun myself in the outdoor play zone!
- If you crave time outdoors, head to Rock Cut State Park – I went hiking, but you could also try kayaking or camping. You’ll feel far from the city, even though it’s just minutes away.
- I recommend the Rockford Art Museum if you’re into modern art – You’ll enjoy the riverside setting and the impressive rotating exhibits. I always find a new favorite piece there.
- You can step back in time at Midway Village Museum – I toured a recreated Victorian village and learned more about the region’s history than I expected. You’ll probably find it just as fascinating.
Best Time to Visit Rockford, IL
When I visit, I always aim for May through October. You’ll appreciate the sunny days perfect for walking trails or catching a festival. I once went in early October and caught the fall foliage—it made every park walk feel magical. You might want to time your trip around that too.
How to Get to Rockford, IL
- By Car: I usually drive—it’s just 90 minutes from Chicago or 2 hours from Madison. You’ll find it an easy road trip.
- By Plane: If I’m flying, I use Chicago Rockford International Airport for direct convenience. You can also fly into O’Hare and drive 75 minutes—it’s what I do when I want more flight options.
- By Bus: I’ve taken the bus once too—it’s a simple option if you’re coming from nearby cities. You’ll find it affordable and efficient.
Where to Stay in Rockford, IL
- I stayed at the Hotel at Midtown – You’ll love the boutique vibe and rooftop bar. I enjoyed being able to walk to local attractions.
- You might prefer Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront – I was impressed by the river views and comfy rooms. You can relax in the indoor pool or grab a drink at the bar.
- When I needed quick highway access, Radisson Hotel worked well – You’ll find it practical, especially if you want an on-site restaurant and conference space.
Best Things to Do in Rockford, IL
Find Peace Among the Pines at Anderson Japanese Gardens
The Anderson Japanese Gardens provide a quiet place for reflection and relaxation for visitors to Rockford. The gardens have been carefully designed and constructed using elements of stone, water, plants, pagodas, bridges, water basins, and more. All elements work together to inspire calm and tranquility in guests. The gardens are open daily, and guests may tour the gardens at their leisure. Guided tours are also available for groups of eight or more. In addition, special events such as classes, lectures, and concerts are held throughout the year. The on-site restaurant, Fresco on the Gardens, serves breakfast and lunch daily.
318 Spring Creek Road Rockford, IL 61107, Phone: 815-229-9390
Step into Prehistoric Wonder at the Burpee Museum of Natural History
The Burpee Museum of Natural History provides four floors’ worth of interactive science exhibits. Their mission is to educate and inspire both children and adults to learn about the natural world. Exhibits include real dinosaur skeletons, a replicated carboniferous coal forest, and displays depicting the life of the indigenous residents of northern Illinois. Workshops, summer camps, and special events for school groups, homeschool students, and scouts are provided by the museum. Auditoriums and classrooms are also available for rental.
737 North Main Street Rockford, IL 61103, Phone: 815-965-3433
Ignite Curiosity at the Discovery Center Museum
The Discovery Center Museum is often regarded as one of the best children’s museums in the country. The museum contains over 300 science and art exhibits, most of which are hands-on. Kids can learn about air and flight, electricity, simple machines, transportation, color, and light. They can explore the universe at the museum’s planetarium show or play outside on the adjacent Rock River Discovery Park playground. The museum offers many special events such as classes, teacher workshops, and summer camps and is available for rental for parties and group events.
711 North Main Street Rockford, IL 61103, Phone: 815-963-6769
Breathe in Botanical Beauty at Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden
Visitors to the Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden will find more than just flowers. The property contains eight separate gardens, 1.8 miles of paved trails, and 2.5 miles of easy woodland trails. Guests can stroll through the grounds at their leisure or take a guided tour aboard the Klehm shuttle bus. Gardens include the Nancy Olsen Children’s Garden, the Rhododendron and Azalea Dell, a water fountain garden, ornamental grass garden, and a peony garden. There is even a large vegetable garden that provides food for local food pantries. The gardens are open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day and are closed Sundays during the fall and winter.
2715 S. Main Street Rockford, IL 61102, Phone: 815-965-8146
Explore Gilded-Age Grandeur at the Lake-Peterson House
Built in 1873, the Lake-Peterson House is one of the most important homes in Rockford. This two-story structure is considered one of the best examples of Victorian Gothic Revival-style architecture in the state of Illinois. It is listed as an Illinois State Historic Site and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Lake-Peterson House is owned by the Swedish American Hospital in Rockford and was preserved by the Jenny Lind Society in 1973. It can be viewed from the outside, but inside tours are prohibited at this time.
1313 E. State Street Rockford, IL 61108
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
If You’re Visiting in Summer, Make a Splash at Magic Waters Waterpark
Magic Waters Waterpark is the perfect place to beat the summer heat in Rockford. This large water park offers a variety of slides, water rides, and attractions for children to adults. Young children can splash and play in the Little Lagoon, while older kids and adults can get their thrills on the 75-foot Double Dare Drop slide or zoom down The Abyss, a dark tube slide. A large wave pool and a relaxing lazy river are also part of the park. Food and drinks are available at any of the park’s four concession stands. Locker and cabana rentals are also available.
7820 Cherryvale North Blvd Cherry Valley, IL 61016, Phone: 815-966-2442
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
Travel Through Time at Midway Village and Museum Center
History comes to life at the Midway Village and Museum Center. This 146-acre campus contains the 15,000-square-foot Museum Center, which showcases the history of Rockford and the surrounding area. Exhibits are dedicated to the agricultural, industrial, and sports history of the city. Also on the property is the Victorian Village, which contains 26 historical buildings that depict life in Rockford at the beginning of the 20th century. During the summer months, on-site interpreters in period costumes take guests on guided tours of the village. The Midway Village and Museum Center is open all year round. Hours vary by season.
6799 Guilford Road Rockford, IL 61107, Phone: 815-397-9112
Stroll Through Glass Gardens at Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens
Visitors to Rockford can experience the tropics at the Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens. This 11,000-square-foot facility contains exhibits of orchids, butterflies, papaya, sugarcane, and more. Outdoors is the large Sinnissippi Park Rose Garden and the 500-foot-long Eclipse Lagoon. The gardens are the perfect place for a leisurely stroll in the summer. During winter, the lagoon is frozen and public ice skating and ice hockey are offered. Lunch is available at the on-site restaurant, the Hibiscus Bistro, and souvenirs can be purchased in the gift shop. The conservatory is open all year round, Tuesday through Sunday, and is closed on Mondays.
1354 N. 2nd Street, Rockford, IL 61107, Phone: 815-987-8858
Sip and Savor at Prairie Street Brewhouse
Housed in the original home of the Rockford Brewing Company, the Prairie Street Brewhouse continues the tradition of bringing fine brews to Rockford. The brewhouse serves a variety of ales, lagers, and porters as well as wines, specialty cocktails, and a full lunch and dinner menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. Live music is available outside on the docks on Monday and Thursday nights during the summer months. Special events such as yoga, pinball, golf, and special five-course dinners, all paired with the perfect brewhouse beers, are held throughout the year.
200 Prairie Street Rockford, IL 61107, Phone: 815-277-9427
Jump to a Spot...
- • Find Peace Among the Pines at Anderson Japanese Gardens
- • Step into Prehistoric Wonder at the Burpee Museum of Natural History
- • Ignite Curiosity at the Discovery Center Museum
- • Breathe in Botanical Beauty at Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden
- • Explore Gilded-Age Grandeur at the Lake-Peterson House
- • If You’re Visiting in Summer, Make a Splash at Magic Waters Waterpark
- • Travel Through Time at Midway Village and Museum Center
- • Stroll Through Glass Gardens at Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens
- • Sip and Savor at Prairie Street Brewhouse