Rockford
Other significant ethnic groups that had a presence in Rockford were Italians (after 1880), Poles and Lithuanians (after 1900). The ethnic heritages of the groups that have made the city their home survive in musical organizations and theater groups.
The city's streets were designed to accommodate the winding river without regard to uniformity. Parks, encompassing 6,000 acres, appear at oddly placed intervals; streets that begin as a boulevard narrow and stop at a wall or building. Its citizens nicknamed Rockford “The Forest City,” because of the many trees. Today seven public gardens and several private gardens have transformed Rockford into a “City of Gardens.”
Stock car racing takes place at Rockford Speedway. Local recreation includes boat and trolley rides and outdoor concerts offered in the summer by Rockford Park District. A scenic portion of SR 2 parallels the Rock River and intersects SRs 72 and 64 along its span from Rockford 41 miles southwest to Dixon.
Visitor Centers
Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 102 N. Main St. Rockford, IL 61101. Phone:(815)963-8111 or (800)521-0849
Self-guiding Tours
A guide book with maps and information about the local area is available at the convention and visitors bureau.
Things to Do
Anderson Japanese GardensKlehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens