Autumn Adventures: Embrace Fall with Rockford’s Best Activities and Events

The Rockford area offers numerous opportunities to fully enjoy the beautiful season of fall!

Fall Views

There are so many places to see the region’s gorgeous fall foliage. Enjoy the vibrant colors at Anderson Japanese Gardens, any of the Winnebago County Forest Preserves, Rock Cut State Park, as well as the along the Rock River. All these places showcase the remarkable fall scenery Rockford has to offer.

Hononegah Forest Preserve

Apple Orchards

Within the region, there are three apple orchards all of which are worth a visit! The orchards all have excellent fall treats and fun activities. Edward’s Apple Orchard West is known for its freshly made apple cider donuts and apple cider. A must try at Curran’s Orchard is the apple cider slushie. Valley Orchard offers a variety of apple picking including Honey Crisp, Gala and McIntosh. There is so much fun to be had at any of these orchards this fall!

Farmers Markets

The fall season is an excellent opportunity to visit one (or all!) of the local farmers markets. The Rockford City Market runs Friday nights until the end of September. The Winnebago Farmers Market is also a Friday night market continuing through the end of October. If you are looking for a morning time market experience, The Forest City Farmers Market- Colonial Village occurs Friday mornings until the last week of October.

Sports/Hiking

The fall weather provides ideal temperatures for engaging in outdoor sports and activities. There are many bike trails that are perfect for exercising while viewing the seasonal foliage. These paths include the Perryville Rec Path, Pecatonica Prairie Trail, Atwood Park, and more.

Many fun fall hikes are happening throughout the various forest preserves of Winnebago County. If you are interested in exploring a forest preserve at night, Howl at the Moon Night Hike at Cedar Cliff Forest Preserve is definitely something to check out. This hike is happening on September 15 at 7:30 PM. Another hike that is ideal for seeing the fall colors is the Guided Hike at Hononegah Forest Preserve. This hike is taking place on September 24 5:30 PM.

For sports fans, attending an Ice Hogs hockey game at the BMO Center is a must. The Rockford Ice Hogs season kicks off October 12.

Throughout the season there are also many events within Rockford and the surrounding areas that are worth checking out!