Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens 

There's no shortage of fun activities to check out while you are in Rockford! Explore unique museums, enjoy delicious food, and hike in the great outdoors.

1. Explore a museum!

Take learning to the next level with our local museums that cater to kids and adults, alike! Uncover new and exciting exhibits, artifacts, and stories about our past, present, and new possibilities for the future of our region.

DTN - STL - Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens

2. Let the kids play!

We have plenty of gyms and attractions that allow your kids to flip and have fun the whole day through!

Alpine Hills

3. Eat Your Heart Out!

Whether you're in the mood for old-world Italian cuisine, some quick fast food, or hearty comfort food, the Rockford region's restaurants will satisfy your appetite with truly tasty options and original flare. Find the perfect restaurant for you and your family - Restaurants in Rockford IL | Rockford Dining Guide (gorockford.com).

Restaurant Week (27 Aluna)

4. Go gaming!

Tilted 10
 

5. Get outside and have some fun!

​Go hiking, biking, exploring, and seeking new adventures at our preserves, parks, and paths! The Rockford region is made up of more than 7,000 acres to recreate and explore! Don’t stay cooped up, stop by one of the following places for some outdoor fun:

Rock Cut State Park kayaking
 

6. Treat Yourself to Something Sweet

​Enjoy a pastry, tasty beverage, or sweet treat at any one of our bakeries, ice cream shops, or cafes!

Dairyhaus
 

7. Attend an event!

​Our calendar of events is the number one source for things to do and activities in the Rockford region. See what’s happening this weekend in the Rockford Region! Rockford Events | Festivals, Concerts, Special Events (gorockford.com)​

8. Dive into our arts & culture scene!

Rockford's arts and culture scene is memorable in every way. Whether it's a trip to a small, upscale shop and gallery in downtown Rockford, a day spent at the Rockford Art Museum, or a night at the theatre, Rockford has something for every taste.

  • J.R. Kortman -  Upscale shop and gallery in downtown Rockford
  • Rockford Art Museum – more than 17,000 square feet of space for feature exhibitions and permanent collections, making it one of the largest art museums in Illinois outside of Chicago. 
  • Anderson Japanese Gardens - AJG is continually ranked as one of the top Japanese gardens in the United States and is designed so that the visitor becomes one with the garden. (Open Spring-Fall)
  • Starlight Theatre - Rockford's home to musical theatre sits among the green, rolling hills on the campus of Rock Valley College. Closed for the season but worth the drive back!
  • Coronado Theatre – Located in downtown Rockford, this historic theatre continues to wow audiences with its architecture just as much as the performers wow them with their acts. Since 1927 it is has been known as "Rockford's Wonder Theatre." View a full schedule of events HERE.
  • Laurent House - Considered by Frank Lloyd Wright himself as one of his masterworks, the house was originally built for a disabled World War II veteran and you can tour this home. (Opens in April)
    Coronado
     

9. Shop Till You Drop!

​In Rockford a unique variety of shops and specialty stores can make for a shopping experience like you have never had before. Here are some of our favorites..

Rockford Art Deli - Rockford Day

For a full list of Rockford shops, visit - Rockford IL Shopping | Antiques, Malls, Weekend Shows & More (gorockford.com)

10. Treat Yourself!

Relax and unwind with a tranquil massage at one of Rockford's spas, such as Circle of Wellness. Get your hair cut, colored, or styled for a special occasion at Lucette Holistic Salon, or make a day out of it and get a manicure and pedicure as well! By the end of the day, you will feel rejuvenated! View a full list of spas - Salons & Spas in Rockford | Hair Salons & Wedding Parties (gorockford.com)

Use this as a handy tool for navigating your way and have fun making the most of your time in the Rockford region!