Rockford, Illinois is known as “The Forest City” due to its lush green landscapes and close proximity to the Rock River. Located in northern Illinois, Rockford is the third-largest city in the state and a great destination for travelers. Home to a variety of attractions and activities, Rockford has something for everyone. Visitors can explore the many unique museums, galleries, and performing arts venues, as well as the vibrant downtown area with its numerous restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Nature enthusiasts can take in the diverse scenery at one of the city’s many parks and outdoor recreation areas. Rockford is also home to a number of historical sites, such as the Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum, the Burpee Museum of Natural History, and the Rockford Art Museum. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Rockford.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Midtown District: Located in the heart of Rockford, this vibrant area is full of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. It is a great area to stay in if you want to be close to the action.
2. East State Street: This is one of the oldest areas in the city and is home to some of the most popular tourist attractions in Rockford. You'll find a great selection of restaurants, stores, and nightlife.
3. West State Street: This area is full of trendy restaurants, shops, and bars. It is also close to the Rock River and the BMO Harris Bank Center.
4. Auburn-Gresham: This area is known for its diverse culture and is home to some of the best restaurants and shopping in Rockford.
5. Downtown Rockford: Downtown Rockford is the city's business district and is home to many corporate headquarters. It is also the site of the city's most popular restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
1. Anderson Japanese Gardens: Anderson Japanese Gardens is a 12-acre Japanese-style garden located in Rockford that features a variety of plants and trees, a waterfall, a teahouse, a koi pond, and several bridges.
2. Discovery Center Museum: Discovery Center Museum is a hands-on museum for children of all ages, with interactive exhibits, science-related activities, and educational programs.
3. Burpee Museum of Natural History: Burpee Museum of Natural History is a natural history and anthropology museum that focuses on the history and culture of the Northern Illinois region.
4. Rockford Art Museum: Rockford Art Museum is a contemporary art museum featuring changing exhibitions, educational programs, and a permanent collection of over 5,000 works of art.
5. Coronado Performing Arts Center: Coronado Performing Arts Center is a historic theater that hosts a variety of live performances, from music and dance to theater and comedy.
1. Tortas El Guero: This popular Mexican restaurant serves up delicious tortas, tacos, burritos and other Mexican specialties. The sandwiches are especially popular, with grilled steak, chorizo, pork, beef, and more all served on freshly-baked telera bread.
2. JMK Nippon Restaurant: A long-standing favorite in Rockford, this traditional Japanese restaurant serves up delicious sushi, tempura, and other Japanese favorites. The chefs take extra care to ensure the freshness of every dish.
3. Prairie Street Brewing Co.: This brewery offers up a wide variety of craft beers, ciders, and other beverages. The food menu features wood-fired pizzas, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and more.
4. The Olympic Tavern: This popular Rockford eatery serves up classic bar fare like wings, burgers, sandwiches, and more. The tavern also has a large selection of craft beers on tap.
5. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens: This beautiful botanical gardens and conservatory offers a unique dining experience. Enjoy a meal in the formal dining room or in the outdoor gardens. The menu features a variety of salads, sandwiches, and other light fare.