But First, Coffee!
After stepping outside into the crisp autumn air, start your day with some coffee and breakfast! Rockford is a hotspot for delicious local coffee. Inzombia Coffee is located in downtown Rockford and has a fun menu filled with tons of fall flavors like pumpkin, chai, cinnamon, and more! For another option that offers great quality coffee, check out Rockford Roasting Co.! They’re also offering fall flavors like sweet potato, marshmallow, and cinnamon.
Photo Credit: Rockford Roasting Company
Breakfast of Champions
It's time for the most important meal of the day! Make sure you grab breakfast or brunch that gives you a cozy fall feeling. Mary’s Market has classic breakfast options like pancakes, quiches, and pastries. They also offer a wide variety of lunch options like sandwiches, salads, and soups. Mary’s Market is perfect for a quick meal. The Norwegian is also a great choice for a fall brunch. This Scandinavian restaurant is sure to serve up a delicious start to your fall day.
Pro Tip: Visit 8th Ward Pub for their Fall Mimosa Flight.
Photo Credit: 8th Ward Pub
It's Orchard Time!
Is the perfect fall day really complete without a trip to an orchard? Make a trip to Edwards Apple Orchard West, Valley Orchard, or Curran's Orchard. There is nothing more refreshing than a freshly picked apple. You can walk through the orchard and pick your own apples at each of these orchards. Treat yourself to a warm apple cider donut to wrap up your outing!
Work up an Appetite
Between your meals, don’t forget to explore the forest city at its most colorful time. The trees boast the most beautiful shades of red, yellow and orange at this time of year. You can catch the colors at Anderson Japanese Gardens. This renowned attraction is a breathtaking Japanese garden that you don’t want to miss in the fall. You can also visit one of the many Forest Preserves of Winnebago County. They will be bursting with color!
We Hope You're Still Hungry!
Take in the flavors of the season at one of Rockford's great dinner spots. Prairie Street Brewing Co. has Schnitzel, Bavarian Dinner, and kebabs. Each week, they will also feature a seasonal/fan favorite beer as a part of their new program! P.S... try their Black Forest Cheesecake for a sweet fall treat. Aero Ale House is another spot that definitely knows how to celebrate the fall season. Here are some of the menu items you can expect to find if you visit Aero Ale House: Apple Pie Burger, Veggie Harvest Bowl, and Brown Sugar Blueberry Dip. If it couldn’t get any better, they also have a festive cocktail menu with drinks like their Caramel Chai Espresso Martini.
Photo Credit: Aero Ale House
Photo Credit: Prairie Street Brewing Co.
Filled with rich history, Harvey Wallbangers recently opened in downtown Rockford. They pride themselves on the honest food, offering locally sourced ingredients. If you're craving fall, this restaurant could be a fitting dinner spot. Try their mouthwatering Pork Chop from McKenna Farms. The dish is served with honey-apple butter making it a meal perfect for the autumn months. While you're there, try some local drinks including brews from Carlyle Brewing Co.!
If you’d like to top off your night with a drink, many bars and pubs are getting into the autumn spirit! Creative drinks and specials are taken to the next level in the Rockford area. Swap your usual cocktail out with something that tastes like fall. Top Dog Pizza and Pub has you covered when it comes to fall cocktails. Try something great for their menu like the Fall Margarita! Urban Forest Craft Brewing has you covered with great beer! Choose from tons of unique flavors that will have you feeling like fall. Stop by The Crow Bar for daily happy hours. This neighborhood bar is a perfect spot if you're on the hunt for good drinks and a fun time.
Ready to Wind Down?
End your night as Embassy Suites in downtown Rockford. The location is perfect for those wanting to enjoy the downtown area. As a foodie, you couldn't ask for more. Culinary Underground is located inside the hotel. It offers a lively atmosphere, delicious food, and an overall enjoyable experience. Lastly, you can breathe the crisp air of autumn on the rooftop. Take the elevator up to The Top Rooftop Bar and Lounge for drinks and light bites before a comfortable night at the hotel.
