Rockford Bucket List: Things You Need To Do At Least Once

Every city has those places, traditions, and little moments that make people say, "You have to try this at least once!"  Rockford is no different.

Whether you've lived here your entire life or you're still discovering everything Rockford has to offer, there are certain things you must experience or you're not truly taking it all in.

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The best part about Rockford is that everyone's list looks different.  One person's must-do experience could be bar hopping on a Friday night downtown at CJ's, Mary's Place, The Music Box, The Office, etc.  Another person is exploring nature at Rock Cut!  The experiences are limitless around here, truly.

I asked Rockford residents: What is one thing everyone should experience at least once in Rockford?

From Anderson Japanese Gardens to the best pizza places, locals say these definitely belong on every Rockford bucket list.

• Tour De North End
• South Main Mercado
• Rockford Pride
• The McPherson
• Anderson Japanese Gardens
• RVC Starlight Theatre
• Lights at Sinnissippi Park
• Potato Shak
• Midway Village
• Burpee Museum
• Rock Cut State Park
• The Music Box
• Northeast Rockford Farmers Market
• Lockwood Park - Rockford Park District
• Tinker Swiss Cottage
• Rockford City Market
• Food Truck Tuesdays
• Rockford IceHogs game
• Show at Coronado Theater
• West Rock Wake Park

Personally, I think if you haven't gotten a taste of at least a handful of food trucks, track them down.  Get a taste of what Rockford loves to eat!  If you're looking for entertainment (indoors or outdoors), it's at every corner of town; Rockford IceHogs games at the BMO, Rockford Symphony Orchestra at the Coronado, events at Davis Park (they're kickin' off RockYard Music Fest during 815 Weekend!), Rockford Rivets games, or seeing a Ski Broncs show on the Rock River!

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So whether you're looking for something new to do, showing someone around, or just wanting to get out and explore more, take your pick from the list above, or ask your Facebook friends for recommendations like I always do.