The snow and cold temperatures bring so many fun things to the Rockford Region. Winter doesn’t necessarily mean long days stuck inside, sheltering from the cold. You can cure your boredom with several different exciting activities and places to visit in the Rockford region. Here are some ways you can spend your time to create an entertaining winter day!
Get Outside at Rock Cut State Park
This park offers the perfect opportunity to get some fresh air even during the chilliest days of the year. You can go on a serene winter hike and utilize the miles of paved trails throughout the park. You could also go on a cross-country skiing journey through the snow-dusted trees and past the frozen lake. Ice fishing is also available as an option.
Photo Courtesy of Shannon Thoms
Stay Active at Alpine Hills Adventure Park
For an exhilarating and active day, you can head over to The Snow Park at Alpine Hills Adventure Park. This 5-acre park is perfect for a variety of winter activities including tubing and terrain parks. For all activities, there is equipment available to rent to meet all your needs. Take your pick on how you're going to fill your day at the park. There are several recreation options, so there is something for people of all ages and skill levels!
Visit Lockwood Park
Take the whole family to Lockwood Park for a day of family fun! You can visit all of the farm animals at the park. Also, Trails are available year-round for horseback riding, walking, biking, and running If you’re looking for something to do when the kids have a day off, Have a Hay Day! The program offers crafts, animal interactions, and outdoor activities. Kids should bring a lunch and appropriate clothing. Visit their website here for more information.
Cheer on the IceHogs!
Calling all sports enthusiasts! IceHogs games are the perfect way to spend a day in the winter! There are several home games over the season. The team’s regular season concludes in April, so there are plenty of opportunities to see the Hogs in action. Upcoming theme nights include Autism Awareness Night on Saturday, Jan. 25, Friends Night on Friday, March 7, and Boy Band Night on Friday, March 14.
Check out a Snow Sculpting Competition
Visit Sinnissippi Park January 22nd-25th to experience this spectacular, free admission event. Don’t miss the chance to see some amazing, detailed art pieces made completely out of snow! Artists spend several days working on their sculptures, and you can walk or drive through the park from sunrise- 10:00pm to view them.
Explore Awesome Museums
If you need somewhere to go to escape the cold, we've got you covered. There are so many different types of museums in the Rockford Region. The various options make it possible for everyone to find something they enjoy. Whether you're looking for something family friendly, or you're going solo, here are some places to check out:
Visit Local Coffee Shops
After a day of winter fun, you may need a pick me up. In an around the Rockford region, there a several quaint coffee shops that offer delicious coffee and unique menu items. You can even win prizes while getting your daily coffee with the Rockford Area Coffee Trail! All you have to do is sign up here. You can check in at each spot, earn points, and redeem for awesome prizes. It is a great way to explore the local coffee scene!
The Rockford region has an impressive amount of winter activities from exhilarating and thrilling, to chill and serene. Don’t spend every day inside hiding from the cold. Get out and embrace the magic of winter instead! You won’t regret participating in any of these great options this cold season.