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Rockford is the third largest city in Illinois behind Chicago and Aurora. According to the Wikipedia page for Rockford, the city had a population of 147,051 as of the 2020 census. Rockford is located in both Winnebago County and Boone County in northern Illinois.

History

Rockford was first settled in the 1830s along the Rock River which flows through the center of town. The city was officially incorporated in 1852. Rockford's early growth was fueled by the establishment of rail connections in the late 1800s which allowed the city to become a manufacturing hub. Major companies like Sundstrand Corporation became large employers. Today, manufacturing is still an important part of the local economy.

For more on the history of Rockford, visit the Local History and Genealogy page on the Rockford Public Library website.

Attractions and Landmarks

Anderson Japanese Gardens

The Anderson Japanese Gardens are one of Rockford's most popular attractions. This 12-acre park features streams, waterfalls, and a variety of Japanese plants and flowers. The gardens were established in 1978 by businessman John Anderson and designed by Hoichi Kurisu. They are open year-round to visitors.

Address: 318 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford, IL 61107

Phone: (815) 229-9390

Website: andersongardens.org

Rockford Museum Campus

The Rockford Museum Campus in downtown Rockford includes the Burpee Museum of Natural History, Discovery Center Museum, and Rockford Art Museum. The natural history museum features dinosaur exhibits while the Discovery Center is focused on science. The art museum houses American artwork.

Address: 711 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103

Websites:

• Burpee Museum of Natural History
• Discovery Center Museum
• Rockford Art Museum

Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens

This conservatory features tropical plants, flowers, waterfalls, and a cafe. The gardens outside include roses and lilacs. It is popular for weddings and events.

Address: 1354 N 2nd St, Rockford, IL 61107

Phone: (815) 987-8858

Website: nicholasconservatory.com

Rockford City Market

This large outdoor market runs from May to September on Friday evenings. It features live music, food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, and more.

Location: 116 N Madison St, Rockford, IL 61107

Website: rockfordcitymarket.com

Rockford Peaches Stadium Site

Beyer Stadium in Rockford was home to the Rockford Peaches, one of the teams in the women's professional baseball league started during World War II that inspired the movie "A League of Their Own." A historical marker now stands on the site along Beyer Park Drive south of E State Street.

Address: Beyer Park Dr, Rockford, IL 61108

Economy and Major Employers

Historically, manufacturing has been the largest sector of Rockford's economy. While still important, the healthcare and logistics industries also employ many local residents today. Some of the major private sector employers in Rockford include:

• Fiat Chrysler Automobiles - Assembly plant

Address: 6200 Auburn St, Rockford, IL 61109

Phone: (815) 395-1000

• Woodward Inc - Aircraft and industrial controls

Address: 1000 East Warrenville Rd, Rockford, IL 61107

Phone: (815) 877-5700

• United Parcel Service - Package delivery hub

Address: 7979 Cessna Dr, Rockford, IL 61109

• Mercyhealth - Network of hospitals and clinics

Website: mercyhealthsystem.org

• RR Donnelley - Printing services

Address: 416 S Church St, Rockford, IL 61101

Phone: (815) 961-3000

For more on Rockford's economy and job market, visit the Rockford Region Economic Development District website.

Transportation

Rockford is served by Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD), providing flights across the country on carriers like Allegiant, American, Delta, and United Airlines. The airport is located just south of the city in Winnebago County.

Website: flyrfd.com

The Rockford Mass Transit District provides public bus service throughout the city and surrounding suburbs. Routes connect most major destinations and the downtown transit center.

Address: 520 Mulberry St, Rockford, IL 61101

Phone: (815) 961-9000

Website: rmtd.org

Local Government

Rockford is an incorporated city and the county seat of Winnebago County. The city government is led by an elected mayor and city council.

Address: 425 E State St, Rockford, IL 61104

Phone: (815) 987-5500

Website: rockfordil.gov

Winnebago County offices are located downtown along West State Street.

Address: 404 Elm St #104, Rockford, IL 61101

Phone: (815) 319-4000

Website: wincoil.us

Education

Public education in Rockford falls under two school districts - Rockford Public Schools and Harlem School District.

Rockford Public Schools: rps205.com

Harlem School District: harlem122.org

Rockford is also home to Rock Valley College, a large community college in the center of town.

Address: 3301 N Mulford Rd, Rockford, IL 61114

Phone: (815) 921-4000

Website: rockvalleycollege.edu

Sports

The Rockford IceHogs are a professional ice hockey team that plays in the American Hockey League as the affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks. Home games are played downtown at the BMO Harris Bank Center.

Address: 300 Elm St, Rockford, IL 61101

Phone: (815) 968-5222

Website: icehogs.com

Facebook

Follow the latest news and events happening in Rockford by liking the official City of Rockford Facebook page:

facebook.com/cityofrockford