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When it comes to planning your special day, the city you choose sets the entire wedding experience. Rockford, Illinois, with its picturesque landscapes, diverse architecture, amazing local businesses, and lower cost experiences, offers a plethora of unique wedding venues & extras that cater to every couple's dream. Whether you're a fan of historic charm, natural beauty, or modern elegance, Rockford has something special for everyone!
NEW & UNIQUE WEDDING VENUES
Union in Rockford, Illinois, is more than just a venue – it's a canvas for crafting unforgettable wedding experiences. With its contemporary design, versatile spaces, and commitment to exceptional service, The Union provides couples with the perfect backdrop to declare their love and commitment. Whether against the backdrop of the city skyline or within the chic interiors, a wedding at The Union is a celebration of modern romance.
Where to stay: Embassy Suites Rockford Riverfront is only .07 miles away from The Union. You can drive, walk, or take an Uber.
Step into The Bricks' indoor spaces, and you'll be greeted by an industrial-chic aesthetic that perfectly complements the venue's historic roots. Exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and ambient lighting create a warm and inviting atmosphere for receptions. The combination of vintage charm and modern industrial elements makes The Bricks a captivating canvas for couples seeking a unique and stylish celebration.
Where to stay: The Bricks is only 3.5 miles from a plethora of Rockford hotels including Hilton Garden Inn, Holiday Inn, Radisson, and Hard Rock Hotel (coming soon!)
Say “I do” under a canopy of 100-year-old lush trees, while your guests observe while seated next to a quiet pond. Hidden Creek Estates secluded venue is a special place where you can relax while its experienced team manages all the details. It’s expansive 30 acres of private property is reserved for guests for the entire weekend, along with a cozy cottage reserved for its brides. Wake up with your bridesmaids to a mimosa bar and pastries, and get ready while overlooking the grounds. Hidden Creek is unique as it sounds!
Where to stay: You can stay on the property at Hidden Creek. The venue offers four guest houses. The Cottage has 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Oak View boasts 3 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms with a luxury hot tub. That 70’s House offers 5 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. The French Hen has 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms.
For a touch of historic elegance, Standard on State is a magnificent venue that dates back to the early 20th century. With its timeless architecture, crystal chandeliers, and grand staircase, this downtown gem creates an atmosphere of vintage glamour. It's a splendid choice for couples looking to add a touch of classic romance to their wedding celebration.
Where to stay: Embassy Suites Rockford Riverfront is only .07 miles away from The Union. You can drive, walk, or take an Uber.
The Pavilion at Orchard Ridge Farms
Exchange your vows in the heart of nature at The Pavilion at Orchard Ridge Farms’ charming ceremony space. The Pavilion, with its open-air design and rustic charm, provides an intimate setting for couples to declare their love surrounded by the beauty of the orchard. The seasonal palette of blossoms and foliage adds a touch of natural elegance to your wedding ceremony.
Where to stay: When you wed at The Pavilion, you can stay on-site in the charming & historic Copperstone Inn. Built in 1858, the limestone farmstead was renovated in 2006, adding 7,500 square feet of living space on over 60 unspoiled acres.
A Midway Village wedding in Rockford, Illinois, is a journey through time against the backdrop of history. This venue offers couples the chance to create a wedding day that is as unique and enchanting as their love story. From the Victorian-era charm of the outdoor ceremony space to the vintage-inspired details within the Main Museum Center, Midway Village is a timeless destination for couples seeking a romantic and historic setting for their special day.
Where to stay: Midway Village is only 2.1 miles from a plethora of Rockford hotels including Hilton Garden Inn, Holiday Inn, Radisson, and Hard Rock Hotel (coming soon!)
WEDDING EXTRAS
Looking for gorgeous flowers, linen, and décor for your wedding or special event? Event Floral specializes in unique, custom floral arrangements for all Rockford region weddings and events. Founded in 2003, Event Floral provides superior service and innovative designs.
BW Event & Décor
If you’re looking for a luxury balloon stylist, look no further. Latina and woman-owned Baez Workshop/BW Event & Decor offers balloon design, event design & grazing tables for your special day.
UPCOMING BRIDAL EVENTS
Stateline Splendor Bridal Expo
Sunday, January 28 | 12 – 4 PM
Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront, Rockford, IL
Rockford City Market Wedding Open House
Saturday, February 3 | 10 AM – 2 PM
Rockford City Market, Rockford, IL
Twisted Tulip 4th Annual Open House
Sunday, February 4 | 3 – 6 PM
The Twisted Tulip, Machesney Park, IL
Saturday, February 10 | 11 AM
The Bricks in Cherry Valley, IL
Saturday, February 17 | 12 – 3 PM
Franchesco’s Ristorante, Rockford, IL
WHAT TO DO WHILE YOU’RE IN ROCKFORD
When you get married in Rockford, you’ll not only live out the best day of your life, but you’ll have a blast all weekend long! There is always SO much to do in the Rockford Region.
Rehearsal Dinner
There are too many amazing restaurants and venues to name, but here are a few! If you’re looking for a luxurious space, check out SALT., Franchesco’s, and ABREO (for a more intimate party). For a more fun and modern spot, try Prairie Street Brewhouse, The Standard, Embassy Suites The Top Rooftop Bar, Greenfire Restaurant and Bar, Tavern on Clark or The Olympic.
Nightlife
Looking for a creative craft cocktail or a trendy bar or club, look no further! If specialty craft cocktails are your game, try Social Charcuterie Bar and Cocktails. The Office Niteclub offers vibrant music played by DJs every Friday and Saturday night. The Lounge in The Union is a new and trendy spot for the best cocktails. Looking for a beer, try CJ’s Public House, Mary’s Place, or the Top Rooftop Bar in Embassy Suites.
Kid-Friendly Places
Experience the world of hands-on investigation at the Discovery Center Museum with more than 250 hands-on art and science exhibits. Or visit a 65-million-year-old T. rex Jane at the Burpee Museum or Natural History. If your kids like thrills, check out Six Flags Hurricane Harbor waterpark or try go-karts, laser tag, and miniature golf at Volcano Falls! You can also go bowling, hit up an arcade or jump park like Flow or Urban Air, go ice skating, horseback riding and so much more.
Outdoor Recreation
The Rockford region has tens of thousands of acres to explore! Watch birds or go paddle boarding at Rock Cut State Park, rent a kayak on the Rock River through Rocktown Adventures or hike trails at Severson Dells or Seward Bluffs. Then go wow your friends and family and head to West Rock Wake Park and hop on Rockford’s wakeboard park – no experience or boat required.
Sports, Sports & More Sports
Ever heard of the famous Rockford Peaches? When you’re in Rockford, don’t forget to check out the Rockford Peaches Fan Trail. Stand on the ground where they stood and take a step back in time! Come be a League of Your Own and visit the Rockford Peaches Fan Trail throughout the Rockford region.
Don’t forget to purchase tickets to a Rockford Ice Hogs game or Rockford Rivets baseball game while you’re here or hit the links. In fact, Golf Digest proclaimed Rockford the best mid-sized golf city in the United States thanks to our many green treasures.
Cultural Offerings
Get inspired! Whether it’s a trip to J.R. Kortman’s small upscale shop and gallery in downtown Rockford or visiting the Rockford Art Museum, Rockford’s arts and culture scene is one of many facets! Check out the top Japanese gardens in the United States, Anderson Japanese Gardens, then catch a show at Starlight Theatre or Coronado Theatre. And don’t forget to be dazzled by architecture at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Laurent House.
For more information, visit https://www.gorockford.com/groups/rockford-wedding-venues/. We look forward to celebrating your big day in the Rockford region with you and your closest friends and family.
