Escaping the hustle and bustle of city life, we found solace in the serene beauty of Rockford, Illinois. The crisp autumn air and serene atmosphere created a perfect setting for my family adventures.
This past weekend, my family and I enjoyed visiting Rockford, Illinois. We were looking for a fun and relaxing escape not too far from home, and Rockford offered the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and charm. From a luxurious hotel stay to exploring local treasures, here’s a recap of our unforgettable weekend.
Check-in Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront
We checked into the Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront on Saturday, and from the moment we stepped in, we were impressed. The hotel exudes a modern, sleek design with cozy touches. We stayed in a one-bedroom suite with stunning riverfront views, and the room was spacious and comfortable. The large windows overlooking the river were definitely a highlight, making our mornings extra peaceful.
One of the best features of this hotel is its rooftop bar. We enjoyed drinks while taking in breathtaking views of the river and the city skyline. There’s also a great selection of restaurants inside the hotel if you don’t feel like venturing out. After a long day, we took full advantage of the rooftop bar’s relaxing ambiance.
The price for the one-bedroom suite was around $215 per night, which we felt was fair given the room size, the riverfront views, and the upscale amenities. Overall, it felt like we were getting great value for our stay.
Visit Edwards Apple Orchard West
Afterward, we headed to Edwards Apple Orchard West, and let me tell you, this was such a treat for the entire family. As soon as we arrived, the smell of fresh apple cider and donuts filled the air. They offer so much to do—whether you’re apple picking, enjoying a hayride, or exploring the cute little farm store packed with homemade goodies. We ended up taking home a few bottles of cider and a dozen of their famous apple cider donuts.
The cost of entry to Edwards Apple Orchard West is free, but we spent around $30 on treats and gifts. It’s located about 25 minutes from downtown Rockford, making it a scenic and easy drive. Parking was a breeze as they have plenty of space available right next to the orchard.
Get an experience at the Eerie Autumn Lights Display at Klehm Arboretum in the evening.
Saturday evening was spent at the Eerie Autumn Lights display at Klehm Arboretum, and it was absolutely magical. The garden paths were lit up with glowing pumpkins and twinkling lights, creating a cozy autumn vibe. There were also food vendors, live music, and crafts for the kids to enjoy. Walking through the illuminated trees at night was a unique experience that made us feel like we were in a fairy tale.
Parking was easy, with ample spots available right on-site. We arrived about 15 minutes early to grab a good parking spot and enjoy the lights without too much of a crowd.
Have Dinner at Ambiance Restaurant
We walked a short distance from the hotel to Ambiance Restaurant for dinner. The convenience of it being just a few minutes from the hotel was perfect after a long day of exploring. The restaurant has a cozy, intimate vibe with soft lighting and elegant decor.
For dinner, we ordered the Jerk chicken, macaroni and cheese, collard greens, and yams. Every bite was bursting with flavor, and it felt like a warm, comforting home-cooked meal. The jerk chicken had the perfect amount of spice, and the sides were the perfect complement.
Here are some other restaurants in Rockford for your reference:
- Disco Chicken: Hip American restaurant with a rooftop seating area, known for its delicious chicken dishes.
- Woodfire: Enjoy wood-fired pizza and Italian cuisine in a casual setting.
- Lucha Cantina: Latin and Mexican fusion cuisine, with a focus on bold flavors and fresh ingredients.
- Baker Street: Gourmet burgers and other American classics.
- Prairie Street Brewhouse: Brewpub with river views, offering a variety of craft beers and pub food.
- Hidden Creek Estates: Speakeasy wine bar with fire pits, perfect for a cozy night out.
Remember to make reservations for Fresco, Norwegian, and Hidden Creek Estates, as they are popular spots and may require booking.
Sunday: A Stroll Through Anderson Japanese Gardens
On Sunday, after checking out of our hotel, we made one last stop at the Anderson Japanese Gardens. This place is a peaceful oasis full of beautiful landscapes, serene ponds, and meticulously kept gardens. We spent our morning leisurely strolling through the pathways, admiring the waterfalls and traditional Japanese architecture. It was the perfect way to unwind before heading home.
The entry price on weekends was $14 for adults and $12 for students & military, which we found reasonable given how beautiful and well-maintained the gardens are. Parking was also easy, with plenty of spots available right at the entrance.
Here are some other activities for your reference:
- Join the Trunk or Treat event at Tinker Swiss Cottage for a fun-filled Halloween celebration. This free event features decorated cars with candy and treats for children, and it is only once per year.
- Stop by the Cider & Cinnamon Craft Fair in Edgebrook for unique handmade crafts and delicious fall treats.
Note: The Cider and Cinnamon Craft Fair is only held once a year, and it’s always held the first week of October.
Rockford offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and family-friendly activities. Our weekend in Rockford was filled with both relaxation and adventure, and it was just what we needed. From the luxurious stay at Embassy Suites to the family fun at Edwards Apple Orchard and the magical lights at Klehm Arboretum, there was something for everyone. We can’t wait to plan our next visit!
Remember to tag @GoRockford and @travelwiththerussells on social media to share your adventures and connect with other travelers.
Enjoy your trip to Rockford and explore the city’s vibrant food scene!
