Family travelers don’t necessarily need to take a long plane ride or splurge money on an expensive resort to enjoy summer adventure. In fact, many fun destinations can be found just outside major cities. Take Rockford, Illinois, for instance, located just 90 minutes from Chicago.
Here are five exciting Rockford experiences the whole family can take part in this summer without having to travel far from the Windy City:
© GoRockford
Paddle the River
Rockford’s stretch of Rock River Water Trail is a designated National Water Trail, and visitors can rent canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards through Paddlesports Rentals to take to these waters in an urban-meets-nature corridor.
© GoRockford
Meet Animals and Pick Fruit
At Lockwood Park Trailside Equestrian Centre & Sarver Children’s Farm, families can explore 15 miles of trails and enjoy a meet-the-animals farm experience across 146 acres. For a cozy farm stay and a goat hike (yes, you heard that right), head to Gretta’s Goats. Kids can pick seasonal fruit and enjoy classic farm experiences at Valley Orchard.
Go Wakeboarding
One of the Midwest’s top cable wakeboarding parks, West Rock Wake Park at Levings Lake hosts an annual event every August. Above the Wake is an adaptive event for children and adults with autism or developmental disabilities. Throughout the summer, West Rock also hosts beginner-friendly classes and youth camps for all levels.
Bike Many Trails
Rockford is a biking hub, and families can discover this for themselves at Atwood Trails, a growing singletrack system in Alpine Hills Adventure Park. These family-friendly trails are fast, flowy and built for riders of all levels. Other popular biking spots are Rock Cut State Park, a 23-mile mountain biking network and scenic loop around Lake Olson. For something extra unique, try a water tricycle rental at the park’s boathouse.
© GoRockford
Relax in a Japanese Garden
Anderson Japanese Gardens is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of adventure. This 12-acre oasis features koi ponds, waterfalls and winding paths. The gardens also offer summer programming like Japanese tea ceremonies, ikebana and calligraphy workshops in collaboration with Chicago-based cultural organizations.
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