90 minutes west of Chicago lies Rockford, Illinois. I grew up here. The parks are amazing, foodies will find endless options and the historic neighborhoods are worth touring. Fun places to check out downtown and the Rock River is the jewel of the cit...
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A local favorite for breakfast. Try the Swedish pancakes, the gooey cinnamon rolls and the fresh squeezed orange juice. Every single thing on the menu is amazing.
Stockholm Inn
Northern Illinois premiere Japanese gardens. You’ll find something to enjoy there every season. Feed the Koi fish and ducks.
Anderson Japanese Gardens
Open limited hours so check before you go. Can’t miss this for trending home decor.
Urban Farmgirl (Madison Street location)
Rockford has some of the best murals. It’s worth spending some time checking them out. Can also grab some Insta-worthy photos.
Murals
A Rockford classic. Beautiful bar and relaxing outdoor patio. Cozy in the colder months, too.
The Olympic Tavern
Home and garden lovers stop here for a nice selection of flowers and decor.
Village Green Riverside
Take a stroll on the Rock River. Park by the rose garden. You’ll have so much fun exploring you won’t realize how many steps you’ve taken.
Rock River Recreation Path
My kids grew up here. Huge enclosed playground with views of the Rock River. You can spend hours enjoying the interactive exhibits.
Discovery Center Museum
A++ Italian food. Cannot beat the atmosphere. Fun bar area, too.
Lino's
Go-karts, mini golf and video games.
Volcano Falls Adventure Park
Take in the views from the rooftop of one of Rockford’s newest hotels. In downtown Rockford.
The Top Rooftop Bar & Lounge
You cannot miss this t shirt shop if you are in Rockford. Say hi to Ginger the dog when you’re there.
Rockford Art Deli
A new exhibit for every season. Fun to explore take a walk by the lagoon. See the swans. Food trucks at certain times during the summer.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens
Enjoy your chicken on another great rooftop in downtown Rockford.
Disco Chicken
Wow, is this place good. In fact, I’ve celebrated my birthday here more than once. Try the sweet potato tacos if they are on the menu. Outdoor patio is lovely.
Lucha Cantina
Perfect place to grab a fresh snack or something from the bakery.
Van Laars Farm Market and Bake Shop
Take a 20-minute drive north to Rockton to find the area’s best ice cream. Warning: you’ll have trouble deciding what to order everything is so yummy.
Dairyhaus
Old school Rockford market. Check out their affordable lunch specials or grab a giant Rice Krispie treat. Their banana bread is to die for. Buy some things at the deli for a picnic at one of Rockford’s beautiful parks.
Pinnon's Foods
Who says you can’t find fun things to do in the colder months? Have fun tubing.
Alpine Hills Adventure Park
20 minutes north of Rockford. You’ll feel merry and bright when you visit during the holidays.
Williams Tree Farm
Spend part of your day hiking or paddle boating. Grab lunch at the Lone Rock Cafe.
Rock Cut State Park
Where the locals go for pizza. High praise because Rockford has SO many yummy pizza places.
Pino's on Main Pizza
Rockford has a new casino. They have some fun entertainment options. Don’t have to gamble to enjoy it. Must be 21 and older to enter.
Hard Rock Casino Rockford
Iconic historic entertainment venue in downtown Rockford. Get tickets to the Rockford Symphony Orchestra’s concert or enjoy the Nutcracker ballet if you’re here at Christmas.
Coronado Theatre
Rockford has its own hockey team. Go to a game. Never a dull moment.
