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Must Visit Places in Rockford, IL
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items Rockford, Illinois hasn't always had the best reputation, but the city is full of gems! If you find yourself in the area, here are the must visit places!
Map
Sections
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Where to Go
Where to Eat
Where to Stay
Where to Get More Info
Where to Go
Here are some awesome Rockford, Illinois landmarks that you don't want to miss!
One of the best Japanese gardens in the United States is right here in Rockford, Illinois. This is a must visit if you're near the area. It's particularly beautiful in the spring and fall!
Anderson Japanese Gardens
Visit a historic Swiss chalet style home that was built in 1865 and still hosts tours. It's such a cool place!
Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens
Burpee is the home to one of the world's most complete juvenile T-Rex skeletons named Jane. Burpee is an amazing natural history museum with so much to see!
Burpee Natural History Museum
If you have kids, Discovery Center Museum is a must visit in Rockford! This children's museum is nationally ranked and is full of amazing STEM exhibits.
Discovery Center Museum
If you want to learn more about Rockford, Illinois, Midway Village Museum is the place to visit. It is full of cool hands-on exhibits about the city. There's also an outdoor Victorian Village which has buildings outfitted to look like the 1800s.
Midway Village Museum
Nicholas Conservatory is a beautiful greenhouse full of tropical plants and koi fish! It also includes an outdoor garden and hosts holiday lights during the Christmas season.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens
Klehm Arboretum includes a series of beautiful specialty gardens, paths, and walk ways. There's also a splash pad and natural man-made creek for kids to play in.
Klehm Arboretum
If you're in Rockford between May through September, be sure to stop by the Rockford City Market in downtown Rockford on Friday nights. This weekly event includes live music, food, vendors and entertainment.
Rockford City Market
Rock Cut State Park is a huge park with multiple lakes and hundreds of miles of trails. If you love outdoors, you must stop and explore this free park!
Rock Cut State Park
Rockford is home to the only building designed by Frank Lloyd Wright for a person with a disability. This home is rare and spectacular and offers tours all year.
Laurent House
This sculpture is a Rockford icon. Stop by the Rock River Recreation Path (off 251 / North Second Street) to view the Symbol and take a selfie with it.
Symbol Sculpture
Where to Eat
Here are some of the best places to grab a bite to eat in Rockford, Illinois!
For a decadent and delicious gourmet meal in Rockford, Illinois, you really can't beat Abreo! Sit on the patio during the summertime for a magical meal.
Abreo - American Restaurant
The Norwegian has fantastic gourmet food including a wonderful brunch menu. They are huge on sourcing local and sustainable food.
The Norwegian - A Rockford Based Nordic Themed Breakfast, Brunch, and Lunch Spot
You can't be in Rockford, Illinois without stopping for a burger, shake, and cheddar fries at Beef a Roo! Make sure you stop at the beloved local chain that's been in business since 1967 and recently expanded into other states.
Beef-A-Roo
Where to Stay
Here are the best places to stay in Rockford, Illinois on your visit!
This hotel is located in the heart of downtown Rockford and has an amazing rooftop restaurant / bar!
Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront
Where to Get More Info
If you're planning a trip to Rockford, or you're a local who is looking for more things to do in the area, here's where you can find out more about the city!
Want more ideas? Here's a book I wrote about things to do in the Rockford area with your family!
Best Mom Rockford
Find all the best things to do with your kids in Rockford on this website!
Stateline Kids - FIND FUN FASTER in Northern IL and Southern WI