Location: Rockford
Top Things to do in Rockford
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Things to do in Rockford, Illinois (IL): The Best Gardens
Boasting 20,000 acres of green space, numerous golf courses, four rivers and the verdant Rock Cut State Park, Rockford is a haven for the outdoor adventurist. Tee off at the Aldeen Golf Club or relax in the splendor of the Anderson Japanese Gardens. In cooler weather, warm up at the vaudevillian Coronado Theater or visit Jane the T-Rex at the Burpee Museum of Natural History. Learn of the history of the area at Midway Village and Museum Center, a living museum with pioneer village and exhibits.
Restaurants in Rockford
1. Anderson Japanese Gardens
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 823 reviews
Anderson Japanese Gardens is proud of its longstanding reputation as one of the highest quality Japanese gardens in North America. Our passion, however, is how the Garden positively impacts individuals and the communities where they live. We are committed to presenting first-class programs, events, and opportunities that bring people together in this uplifting natural setting.
Reviewed By JulieC5202 - Rockford, United States
It is always a pleasure to walk through the gardens and gift shop, You always recognize something different. In addition you always meet some of the nicest people. It’s always been one of my favorite places to relax and renew, it must be the beauty of everything.
2. Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 81 reviews
This year-round garden, which started as a commercial nursery, includes 155 acres of trees and 300 woody plant species mapped and labeled. The gardens include: a Rhododendron and Azalea dell, Hosta Garden, Nancy Olsen's Children's Garden, Fountain Garden, Demonstration Garden, Peony Garden, Grasses Garden,Woodland Wildflower Garden and Plant-a-Row garden. There are several signature events hosted each year also. Botanica luncheon,Garden Fair, Plant Sale, Woodsong Concert Series, Autumn in the Arboretum and Twilight in the Garden are all popular annual events.
Reviewed By Reynrap
Really beautiful gardens & paths. They've added a huge permanent tent area, which would be a perfect spot for a wedding reception, company party, or family reunion.
3. La Paloma Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
Due to the monumental damage done by flooding, the gardens are not as presentable this year as in the past. Visitors are welcome understanding these circumstances. Thank you
4. Sinnissippi Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 99 reviews
On the banks of the Rock River, this park includes beautiful gardens and a popular jogging, walking and nature path.
Reviewed By pitpat3 - Loves Park, United States
I love to come to the snow sculpture contest and see what people have created. And also during Christmas to see the light displays. Its free to drive through but they suggest for a small donation as you drive out. It does get congested so be prepared to drive slowly or if allowed, park your car and walk to see everything.
5. Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 213 reviews
Situated along the banks of the beautiful Rock River, Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens brings the tropics to the Midwest. The facility is the third largest conservatory in Illinois, offering an 11,000-square-foot plant exhibition area complete with water features, seating areas, and sculptures, all in a tropical plant setting.The beauty continues outdoors with the Eclipse Lagoon, complete with two fountains, waterfalls, pedestrian bridge, patio areas, and walkway connecting the Conservatory to the historic Sinnissippi Rose Garden. Featuring Bruce Munro: LIGHT June 3 - November 5!
Reviewed By 709rital - Cambridge, United States
Friends traveling thru Rockford ask “what is there to do in Rockford. I had to think a minute and of course Nicholas Conservatory came to mind. If you don’t have a specific event to come to, I was at a loss having lived here all my life. But Nicholas and Sinnissippi Gardens are spectacular to see any time of the year. Always something going on and displays and lights, butterflies, birds, the indoor gardens and outdoor gardens and it is right along the Rock River with a path that goes for miles.
