IGNITE June 2022

Making the most of what summer has to offer in the city

Summer time is finally here! That means warmer days, longer nights and a chance to explore the Forest City even more!

My husband and I made a goal for this summer to be outside more and experience more of the outdoor options the Rockford region has to offer. We have made a “bucket list” of the places we want to explore this summer.

Explore-the-Outdoors-in- Rockford-More Bucket List

Anderson Japanese Gardens: While this isn’t a new option to us, this is one of our favorites! My favorite part is taking a moment by the koi pond to just take all of the gardens in!

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden: I have lived in Rockford my whole life, and I have never been to Klehm! From the pictures I have seen, it looks beautiful and I am excited to explore the three miles of wooded trails! Plus I am hoping we can go while the Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects Exhibit is there!

Severson Dells Nature Center: Again another location I have yet to visit. While we may not be experts, we are excited to try out the five miles of self-guided nature trails, and we may even check out one of their guided walks!

Rockford Park District: Of course, the park district made the list. With more than 125 parks to choose from, we will have plenty of parks to explore this summer. We are using the paths and trails map on the website to help us find the best trails for us! I think I am most excited to get out and walk the path along the river!

Rocktown Adventures: While I am not a huge fan of water, I am willing to check out what courses Rocktown has to offer. Lucky for us, there are lots of beginner classes -- which is great because we will need it!

Forest Preserves: While we hope to visit as many of the 44 forest preserves in the Winnebago County area as possible, I also hope to check out Byron Forest Preserve. I visited here as a child, and I am excited to go back and explore it as an adult!

Rock Cut State Park: It wouldn’t be the summer without a visit or two to Rock Cut! We are hoping to try out the trails and some of the other activities Rock Cut has to offer.

Enjoy the Outdoors

While exploring all the trails and options the area has to offer, we are also excited to enjoy the outdoor options the Rockford region has.

Hidden Creek Estates: Wine bar, live music and food trucks — do I need to say more?

Prairie Street Brewing Co: I mean who wouldn’t want to sit out on the dock, listening to some music and eating some great food with a great view?

Olympic Tavern: Hoping we can get a spot on their patio this summer, especially on a Taco Tuesday! Be sure to join us at the IGNITE After 5 here as well on June 15!

Prairie Fire Golf & Grill: With eight beautifully appointed, temperature-controlled private hitting bays looking out onto a vast targeted range, we are excited to see how bad our golf game really is and to enjoy delicious food and drinks! Join IGNITE at its After 5 here on Aug. 17!

I know this list does not cover all that the Rockford region has to offer — these are locations I am hoping you check out this summer as well!

What are some of your favorite spots to go in the Rockford region in the summer? Be sure to share them with friends, family and co-workers! Let others see the area through a positive light and remember to explore and enjoy the region this summer!

Carmen Kellerman is events manager at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.