Meet Garret
When did you move to the Rockford area?
1995 from Pingree Grove Illinois
What are your hobbies or interests?
Pretty much anything in the right brain! Photography, graphic design, creative art, bicycles, horror films, and music all pretty much run my life.
Favorite restaurant in Rockford?
This is a tough one! I’d have to go with Disco Chicken for dinner and Stockholm for breakfast.
Best place to grab pizza in Rockford?
Also a tough one! Rockford is home to some of the best Italian food in the Midwest region. I’m going to have to say Capri for Rockford. But start your northern Illinois pizza tour today and be the judge yourself…you’re in for a treat.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone new to Rockford?
Come say hi! There are so many wonderful organizations and facilities here, just message us and let us show you around!
Favorite fall activity or attraction in the area?
There’s always been something so special about Edwards Apple Orchard come fall time. One of my favorites for sure!
Favorite winter activity or attraction in the area?
I love the fat tire mountain bike race at Atwood. There is also a charity ride that takes place at Kegel’s Bicycle Store every holiday season. This year the ride travels to the Veterans Drop-In Center to deliver donations.
Favorite summer activity or attraction in the area?
Rockford BMX! Every Sunday you can find the excitement at Searles Park as Rockford BMX runs SPECTATOR FREE races! They also offer beginners league classes to riders brand new to the sport.
What’s a fun or random fact about you?
I spent a part a large part of my life in an internationally touring rock band which took me to cities and countries all around the world. I once won a video sweepstakes grand prize for A Nightmare on Elm Street. I was supposed to be flown to Hollywood to be an extra in the film and meet the cast. I was however a child and my mom would not allow me to go (understandably so now, not so much then). This did start a lifelong obsession with the franchise and led to my building of one of the largest ANOES collections in the country which has been featured in Fangoria and Horror Hound magazines. Due to my travels, I spent countless amounts of time searching and seeking out memorabilia and collectibles from stores and other collectors all around the globe.
What do you think makes Rockford such a great place to live?
We have so many unique layers and flavors in our City. Our great restaurants, connection to arts, family friendly entities, and beautiful locations within the Rockford Park District all make our city instantly feel like home.
Occupation
Graphic Designer
What stage of life are you in?
Professional/no children
How do you prefer to meet or connect?
Hybrid (a mix of both)
What’s your best advice for someone experiencing their first winter in Rockford?
Learn about the amazing opportunities to enjoy the holidays with events like Stroll on State, All Aglow, River Lights, Tree Lighting, Ice Skating, and so much more!
Favorite local event or festival
Stroll on State is such an awe-inspiring event for our city. It’s also a huge boost to the local economy and local retail downtown.
Best place to go for a night out in Rockford?
Downtown Rockford, so many options! I could write a book on different ideas for a weekend night out downtown. Drinks at Disco Chicken while a live dj plays, check out a band at Cj’s, Mary’s Place, or The Music Box, fine dining at Abreo, custom cocktails at Social or 27 Aluna, home-brewed local IPAs at Carlisle, throw some axes while grabbing a drink at the brand new Big Timber Axe Throwing, a chill night at Sheila’s Daiquiri Lounge, the list goes on and on!
One hidden gem in the Rockford area that you’d recommend?
If you have kid and are looking for something new for the family…check out Rockford BMX. The track and facility is one of the top ranked in the country and runs and incredible program for ages starting at 4 and going all the way up to 65+. They also offer beginners league programs all summer long.
What’s your favorite thing about the Rockford community?
Our culture and commitment to the arts! Visit our downtown and enjoy our arts, culture, museums, and theater. Coronado Theatre is a personal favorite of mine!
If you had a free day in Rockford, what would you do?
I would wake up early and get breakfast at Stockholm or The Norwegian followed by an iced mocha with an extra shot at Wired. I’d then hit the mountain bike trails at Atwood, stop by Kegel’s to keep dreaming about the next bike I wanted, head to one of our local skateparks and put in a few laps, run by Rockford Art Deli and say hi to Pepper, then hop across the street to SRM Prints and Smore’s Collectibles to say hey and browse. I would have to cruise in to Toad Hall and Culture Shock since they’re right up the street of course and stop by Beach Boys Toys to relive my youth since my back would be killing me from riding all morning. Lastly, i'd top it off with some post ride beverages at Cj’s, followed by a band at Mary’s Place.
Where’s the best place to enjoy nature in or around Rockford?
One of the most peaceful places I've ever visited is within the Rockford Park District. A walk through the park is something I’ll always be grateful for.
What’s your favorite local small business or shop?
Kegel’s Bicycle Store. This store has been here for me most of my life and was actually one of my first jobs when I was growing up. This is one of the oldest and most iconic bike shops in the country and the staff has lifetimes of experience in products and service.
Best way to get involved in the community?
Reach out! We are currently developing and shaping new project and programs here in Rockford and can always use help!
What’s one thing you wish you knew when you first moved to Rockford?
I wish I would have known that it was this easy to get involved and be part of the culture of Rockford!