There’s a lot of love to go around in the Rockford region and it can be shared in so many fun ways this Valentine's Day. Whether you are driving the distance for a new experience, playing it more low-key this year, planning a romantic date night out, getting the whole family together for a special moment or treating yourself to some much needed R&R we have you covered!  

As we get ready for this swoon-worthy holiday we thought a fun guide of products, services, events and ways to turn up the Valentine’s vibes would be just the thing to make this one your best yet!  

Here are our Top 5 Ways to Share the Love this Valentine’s Day in the Rockford region. 
 

  1. STAY – If you have a need for adventure and experiencing something new, you’ll want to visit our premiere hotels for a creative date night experience that can only be had in our community with our amazing views, handcrafted foods/beverages and top-notch service.  
     
    The Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront is a great Valentine’s Gift surprise for your partner with a romantic rooftop dinner and overnight stay! This Valentine's Package includes overnight accommodations, chocolate-covered strawberries and champagne delivered to your guest suite, and a rooftop dinner with a specialty prix fixe menu and two glasses of wine at The Top Rooftop Bar & Lounge.  

This package is available for stays on Saturday, February 11th or Tuesday, February 14th. Click the link to learn more and book now - https://esrockford.com/valentines-package 

📍416 S. Main St., Rockford, IL 61101 
 

  1. FOOD and SPIRITS – There are so many ways to share a Valentine’s Day-infused meal with your loved ones. Be sure to research in advance. Many specials are posted on social media and are unique with flavors and 💝 themes. 
     
    PRO TIP: Be sure to make reservations as early as you can. Spots for these experiences tend to fill up fast. 
     
    Barnstorm
     
    If you want a more elaborate/exclusive dinner be sure to reserve a spot at Barnstormer Distillery, which includes a Valentine’s Day Dinner at the distillery featuring an À la carte menu & valentine inspired cocktails. They are collaborating with The Iron Salamander to bring you a beautiful evening of great food & cocktails on February 14th from 6-9 p.m. 
     
    📍6969 S. Main St., Rockford, IL 61102 
     
    Sam's
     
    If you are looking for something a little more fast and casual then visit a place like Sam’s Ristorante and Pizzeria. They will have heart-shaped pizzas available for Valentine’s Day dining or take-out...oh so fun!! 
     
    PRO TIP: Be sure to ask when you call ahead if there are any customizations your restaurant of choice can offer you. 
     
    📍6075 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, IL 61114 
     

  1. SWEETS and TREATS – Nothing says love quite like chocolates, truffles and cupcakes...that’s what we think anyways. Pre-order locally handmade sweets to show your loved ones just how much you care.  
     
    Sugar Britches
     
    Sugar Britches is a cozy, old-fashioned spot in downtown Rockton offering a mixture of gourmet, handmade candies, plus your childhood favorites too.  
     
    📍115 W. Main St., Rockton, IL 61072 
     
    TNT Funnel Cakes
     
    TNT Funnel Cakes offers something sweet for any occasion...even just because. These delicious funnel cakes are made from scratch in a wide variety of flavors and are sure to give a wide-eyed reaction when given as a gift.  
     
    PRO TIP: You can’t go wrong with any flavor, but the Peach Cobbler and Turtle Funnel Cakes are ones to remember.  
     
    📍201 W. State St., Rockford, IL 61101 
     

  1. FLOWERS – Tale as old as time – flowers are a great way to surprise and brighten someone’s day on Valentine’s Day. Giving a uniquely crafted assortment of flowers is also a great way to show your person how well you know them too.  
     
    Event Floral
     
    Event Floral has a diversified offering of unique flower and plant arrangements, balloons and gift items. They also provide convenient delivery service as well. 
     
    📍7302 Rock Valley Parkway, Loves Park, IL 61111 
     

  1. GIFTS 
     
    Burpee
     
    FOR THE KIDS  
    Burpee Museum of Natural History is hosting the Art of the Earth Dinosaur Courtship Event – On Valentine’s Day learn how artists and scientists can work together to create a visual representation of a time on Earth we have never seen before: PaleoArt! Romance isn’t just for humans. Learn about the weird and wonderful ways paleontologists think dinosaurs wowed potential partners. 
     
    📍737 N. Main St., Rockford, IL 61103 
     
    Arch 
     
    FOR HER 
    Arch Apothecary is a luxury beauty boutique with exclusive cosmetic and skincare lines. Expert licensed aestheticians and certified cosmetologists create the look that’s perfect for every customer. From everyday eyebrow and lash upkeep to a special makeup application and blowouts before that big night out, Arch Apothecary has all the ways to pamper and make a person feel like their very best. 
     
    📍214 E. State St., Rockford, IL 61104 
     
    Culture Shock 
     
    FOR HIM 
    Culture Shock Clothing and Records was born in 2006 as a Midwest shop to find all-things-unique inspired by music, arts, and culture. Throughout the years, it has evolved into the local headquarters for locally-made/independent-made merchandise and clothing, funky gifts and accessories, kitschy housewares, and best of all VINYL RECORDS. Culture Shock is half boutique and half record store. This locally-owned shop is community-focused and loves to serve this community for years to come. 
     
    📍2239 Charles St., Rockford, IL 61104 
     
    Canine
     
    FOR YOUR PET 
    The Canine Crunchery is a bakery providing wholesome, fresh baked treats for your pooch, specializing in baking treats for a variety of dietary needs. Dogs are always welcome! 
     
    📍1888 Daimler Rd., Rockford, IL 61112 
     

These are just some of our recommendations but for a complete list of things to do and ideas search through your one-stop virtual Rockford region Go Guide at www.gorockford.com! 

 

Photo credit provided by:  
Header image: Embassy Suites Rockford 
Barnstormer Distillery 
Sam’s Ristorante and Pizzeria 
Sugar Britches 
TNT Funnel Cakes 
Event Floral 
Burpee Museum of Natural History  
Arch Apothecary  
Culture Shock Clothing and Records 
The Canine Crunchery