Rockford Explore Local With RVshare

Located in northern Illinois is the city of Rockford, which lies on the Rock River, about 90 miles northwest of the major city of Chicago. Known for its numerous parks and forest preserves, Rockford is affectionately known as the “Forest City” and is an ideal escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Along with its natural scenery and landscapes, visitors and residents also enjoy multiple attractions, including museums, places of historic significance, a thriving dining scene, and more.

Ready to discover the best of Rockford, Illinois? Let’s get started!

*Note: Some of the suggestions may not be doable due to coronavirus closures, but keep this list handy for when things start opening back up more! Be sure to check individual pages for specific operation details.

Looking to leave the bustling city behind in favor of Mother Nature? Luckily for you, Rockford has numerous state parks and recreation areas nearby, all offering fun activities and the tranquillity of the great outdoors.

Rock Cut State Park

Rock Cut State Park is famous for its interesting history, rolling plains, wildlife, and multiple recreational activities. It includes two lakes, Olson Lake and Pierce Lake, which provide the opportunity of fishing, ice skating, and kayaking. Rock Cut has numerous hiking, horse-back riding, and bicycling trails and is home to plentiful wildlife. Authorities also organize seasonal hunting programs.

Shabbona Lake Park

If you are tired of the hustle-bustle of daily life and want to enjoy a spot of fishing, Shabbona Park is your place. It’s located west of Chicago, in the Shabbona Township. It's a man-made fishing spot, and allows you to try your luck at catching a variety of fish species. Containing an exceptional blend of green pastures and moorland mesic woods, it’s a perfect place for camping, hiking, biking, and more.

Lowden State Park

Located just north of Oregon along the Rock River in Ogle, County Lowden State Park is an incredibly scenic and beautiful place to visit. The park has historical significance, as it is reserved as a monument in honor of Gov. Frank O. Lowden who served during World War 1. You’ll also find an impressive fifty-feet-tall statue of Chief Black Hawk overlooking the river, making the spectacular view even more grandiose.

White Pines Forest State Park

Situated in the middle of Rock River Valley, White Pines Forest State Park marks the southern border of the remarkable Chicago-Iowa Trail. Besides serene and awe-inspiring scenery, the park is an ideal spot for hiking, fishing, and picnicking, as well as camping, as it provides a comfy lodging facility and numerous camping sites. One of the most appreciated features of the park are the concrete fords that allow people to drive through the water and enjoy activities such as fishing.

Castle Rock State Park

If you’re a novice hiker or rock climber, then Castle Rock State Park is one of the most beautiful hiking spots you’ll find within the region. Just miles from the city, the park is located amidst the Rock River Hills area and is considered as a specimen of the region as it encompasses the archetypal cliffs, ravines, and unique plants of the hills. There are numerous hiking trails for day hikers, while walk-in campgrounds are available for overnight hikers. 

If you’re still looking to explore more of Rockford by foot, then perhaps a hike in or outside of the city is in order? These two trails don’t just offer magnificent views and natural scenery, but are also the two most popular walks within the area.

Severson-Dells Loop

Severson-Dells Loop is a lush and slightly trafficked hiking trail located near Rockford. It is 1.9 miles long and described as a “hidden treasure”, due to its appealing natural beauty, wildflowers, birds, and wildlife such as turtle and frogs. It is a highly recommended place to experience serenity and enjoy the flora and fauna of the region.

Kilbuck Bluffs

One of the oldest picnic, fishing, and wading spot in Winnebago County is the Kilbuck Bluffs, which also features a hugely popular hiking trail. It’s spread over 224.3 acres with South Bend Road dividing it into two parts. The west part of the trail is curved around the floodplain of Kilbuck Creeks. The top of the hill then serves as the east portion of the trail in Kilbuck Bluffs Preserve. The loop road is full of hardwood forest and orchards of pine trees. Virginia bluebells and other ephemeral flowers make it a “must spring hiking” spot.

Stomach rumbling? Whether you’re craving a casual spot for lunch or the luxury of fine dining, Rockford is filled to the brim with eateries worth noting. Here are our favorites!

Thunder Bay Grill

If you are a foodie who loves spacious interiors and beautiful décor, not to mention delicious food, then  Thunder Bay Grill is for you. The place flawlessly combines modern elements with a typical lodge setting. Its specials include fresh seafood, certified angus beef, pasta, burgers, flatbreads, and more.

Wood Fired Pizza

Pizza lovers rejoice! Wood Fired Pizza is a great place to enjoy those cheesy, triangle-shaped morsels with friends and family. The restaurant uses locally-sourced ingredients for their menu items and other traditional Italian dishes. Serving fresh food in a comfy environment at reasonable rates is its specialty, making it a favorite among visitors and residents.

Abreo

Abreo, operated by Chef Paul Sletten and his team of professional chefs, is a recommended place for those craving some fine dining. Abreo is located in the heart of the city and provides original and seasonal menus. Its ingredients are mostly sourced from local farms, but also supplied by the import sector. Menu favorites include duck nachos, blackened scallops, and pork belly tacos.

Social Urban Bar & Restaurant

If you’re a fan of the farm-to-table approach and looking for a rich taste of traditional favorites, you’ll loveSocial Urban Bar & Restaurant. This place is famous for experimenting with unique menu items while using local ingredients. One of the exciting things about Social is their idea of bringing back the art of the cocktail. They are refashioning the trend of bartending and drink mixing to keep the tradition and innovation alive.

Johnny Pamcakes

This veteran diner features old-school décor, as well as a variety of classic eats, ice cream, and our favorite – all-day breakfast. AtJohnny Pamcakes, meals are made-to-order using only the freshest of ingredients too, so you know it won’t just be delicious, but top quality as well.

Wondering “what’s next?” Well, when it comes to Rockford’s attractions and activities, you’re only just getting started. Here are some of the most fun things on offer in and around the city!

For kids and families

If you and your family are looking for a way to pass the day, look no further than these fantastic activities.

Burpee Museum of Natural History

Established in 1941, theBurpee Museum of Natural History is located along the Rock River in downtown Rockford. A "face filled with wonder" is a common sight at this museum, which features exhibitions ranging from dinosaurs to the Ordovician Sea, coal forest, geoscience, and the history of humankind.

Discovery Center Museum

Discovery Center Museum is located on the Riverfront Museum Park campus. It’s an ideal place for educating your children about science, as well as for enjoying a fun family day out. It contains almost 300 hands-on art and science displays, a planetarium, travelling shows, a TV studio, and recreational classes for both kids and adults.

At night

What should you do in Rockford once the sun goes down? We’re glad you asked! Here are our suggested night-time attractions.

Coronado Performing Arts Center

Built in 1927, theCoronado Performing Arts Center is not only a place to watch your favourite performing actors and travelling shows, but can also be worth visiting to see its affluent interior. It's an archetype of an "atmospheric-style theatre with gilded Spanish castles, Italian villas and Chinese dragons in relief on the sides and a starry false sky”.  The theatre has been marked as one of Illinois' 150 great places, as it is considered as making a significant contribution to the region’s thriving arts and cultural scene.  

Rockford City Market

Rockford City Market is a place where you can find Rockford’s local makers, crafters, dreamers, and artisans, as well as live music and unique retail items. It started in 2010 to bring new life to downtown Rockford by establishing a weekly market to draw people together. However, keep in mind that it’s only open for six months per year. You can enjoy shopping, scrumptious treats, and watching live concerts here.

On the cheap

Looking to save a dollar or two during your Rockford excursion? There are plenty of activities and attractions that can be visited on a budget, helping you to get the most out of your time spent in the city.

Anderson Japanese Gardens

Anderson Japanese Gardens is listed as one of the highest quality Japanese gardens in North America. Shaped by the “pond strolling” of the 13th-century, the garden contains ponds, streams, cliffs, zigzagging paths, and a sukiya style tea house. It organizes various activities for fun and is run by a non-profit organization, which is why donations are encouraged. Outdoor dining is allowed too, so you can get your food packed and enjoy eating it at a scenic spot.

Rockford Art Museum

TheRockford Art Museum is located inside the Riverfront Museum Park building in downtown Rockford. It’s located near the Burpee Museum of Natural History and offers entry fees as cheap as $2 per person. Parking is also free. Here you can enjoy several of the best art exhibitions at extremely cheap rates.

Free things to do in Rockford

If you’re looking to make the most out of your time spent in Rockford, then look no further than these recommended activities. Oh, and did we mention they’re completely free?

Atwood Center

TheAtwood Center is situated along the beautiful Kishwaukee River and boasts 334 acres of diverse natural area, including forest, marsh, and prairieland. It’s also home to the Rockford Park District’s award winning Birds of Prey facility, a captivating exhibit featuring up-close views of raptors and which is one of the few accessible tree houses in Illinois.

Lake Peterson House

Constructed in 1837,The Lake Peterson House is a Victorian gothic revival home, which represents the revival of gothic architecture and is considered as one of the best gothic-styled homes within the region.  The best part? It’s completely free to admire, so come along, take some photos, and gain a new appreciation for architecture of the past.

Best spas in Rockford

If you’re craving some rest and relaxation, or even a bit of pampering, these are two of the best spas in the region.

WM Day Spa Salon

Ranging from health care to beauty services, theWM Day Spa Salon offers you all kinds of treatments, such as facials, nail care, body massage, skincare, and others. Be sure to check out their pamper packages too, as these are designed to meet customer’s most popular needs.

Xeno Salon & Day Spa

Locals often recommendXeno Salon and Day Spa as their go-to for pampering, due to its unique and one-of-a-kind approach. You see, they treat you less like a customer and more like a guest, providing you with a relaxing experience like no other. Enjoy treatments such as Swedish massage, hair treatments, facials, and more.

Best gyms and yoga studios

If rejuvenation for you is less about deep relaxation and more about sweating it out, then you’re in luck. Rockford is home to some of the highest-rated gyms and yoga studios within the region.

FitMe Wellness

FitMe Wellness provides "state-of-the-art equipment", enthusiastic group classes, and the finest individual training. It provides an environment in which you are motivated to pursue a healthy lifestyle while having fun. Be sure to check out their VIP programs and enjoy classes such as yoga, Zumba, spin, and more.

NSpired Yoga

NSpired Yoga was voted as the number one yoga studio in 2019 by Rockford citizens. Their motto is "every body can move, every mind can learn, and every soul can find peace within". They offer classes in aerial yoga, chair classes, bootcamp style yoga, and more.

Looking to fulfill your wanderlust by heading outside of the region for a day? You could spend decades within Rockford without barely scratching the surface of all there is to do in this large city, but consider these day trips next time you fancy a new adventure.

Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is well-known for its sandstone ravines, which have been formed by glacial meltwater. It’s around 1-hour-and-10 minutes’ drive from Rockford and features 13 miles of trails that allow visitors to explore the beauty of the Illinois River. Besides fantastic scenery, you can also enjoy many recreational activities such as fishing, ice fishing, and boating.

Chicago

Just a 1.5 hour’s drive southeast of Rockford isChicago, the large city that’s famous for being home to some of the tallest buildings in the world. Here, you can also enjoy the most beautiful parks, museums, zoos, and hiking trails, as well as the well-known Shedd Aquarium. This indoor aquarium is one of the largest of its kind in the world. Other recommended places include Morton Arboretum Loop, Silver Springs State Park, and Chicago Sports Museum. 

As a final reminder, some of these activities may need to wait until businesses fully reopen from coronavirus closures. However, there is still much to see and experience in Rockford that you can enjoy today! What are your favorite spots in Rockford? Send them our way to [email protected] or by tagging us on Instagram @rvshare and using the hashtag #rvsharelocal.