Are you looking for some fun in the sun, but hope to away from all the hassle of Chicago tourists this summer? Well, look no farther; here is a guide that will assist you in getting away from the windy city without spending too much on gasoline.
For those of you whom are unaware, Rockford is just about a thirty to forty-five minute drive from Chicago, IL. Just take I-90 straight from Chicago right into the city limits of Rockford; it is just that simple. Rockford is the third largest city in Illinois and has much to offer its citizens and surrounding visitors from all turns of the world.
Some of my family’s best memories after moving to Rockford are from the summer season, since Rockford has numerous events that are great fun for all ages. If there is not an event that interests you, then there are hundreds of parks and natural resources (at least that is what it seems like somedays). Listed below are the best events that my family enjoys throughout the warm summer days.
1. Sportscore One and Two : These are two sports facilities, rated as the top tourist destinations in the region, host amateur sporting events and tournaments throughout the entire summer and winter months. It is the place for summer camps that involve volleyball, softball and soccer. In addition, it is a great place to watch amateur sports events.
2. Rockford BMX : If you are into BMX racing this is the place to be for excitement. In addition, there are practice times that new riders can take to the track and test their skills. Not being a racer myself, I think it is great fun to go out and watch the riders, it is very exciting for all ages.
3. Rockford Speedway : At this facility there is a quarter mile, high-banked, asphalt race track that holds to the pressures of NASCAR racing, concerts, car shows, sporting events, outdoor sales and numerous community fundraising events throughout the entire summer. Check out the website to see what is going on this summer.
4. Rockford River Hawks : This is an independent baseball team that plays at Marinelli Field on the Southwest side of Rockford. Occasionally throughout the summer, baseball teams have been known to go back in time and play like the pros did in the early 1900’s. Tickets are well under $15 dollars, the price depends on what type of seating purchased.
5. Rockford Thunder : This is an indoor soccer league that is great to go and watch at numerous times of the season.
6. Magic Waters Water Park: This is located just off I-90/39 and is great for families weekend trips or a vacation during the week. Tickets for the water park range from around $19, depending on the height and age of each person. In addition, season tickets are also available throughout the summer months.
7. Carlson Ice Arena/Riverview Ice House : After enduring the heat of the summer, try getting out to the ice arenas and enjoy the cooler environment while ice skating. Private lessons are available in addition to public skating. Public skating for two hours is only $4.00 per person and skate rental is $2.00 per person. Birthday parties are available to rent out the ice rink and enjoy skating as a party.
8. Blackhawk Farms Raceway : Another racing location that allows you to get involved with the action at certain events posted on the website. Basically, your family can be entertained by the professional drivers and even drive with a trained driver on the race course. It is a great place to go if you have a child looking to be the next Danica Patrick (which happens to be from Roscoe, a suburb of Rockford).
9. On the Waterfront : This is the largest music festival in the region and is at the end of August. It is a four day concert series that offers many attractions, different performing bands or all genres, food and much more. Some main bands are Daughtry, The Black Crowes, The New Cars and many more bands. The event is perfect for all ages. Tickets vary on the bands that you would like to see perform (if featured) however general admission tickets are available also.
10. Rockford Park District : As mentioned above, there are numerous parks and smaller events that are happening throughout the summer that shouldn’t be missed. Check out this website for more information about the smaller events and available rental deals in the area.
