Behind the Brand: Womanspace

There is something quietly powerful happening in Rockford’s schools, youth programs, and community centers. More than ever, young people are stepping up to lead. They are not just attending classes. They are starting organizations, planning neighborhood clean-up efforts, launching podcasts, and speaking out on what truly matters in today’s world.At Auburn High School, Jefferson High School, East High School, and Guilford High School in Rockford, students are taking charge of their futures. They are forming peer support clubs, leading social justice initiatives, and tackling food insecurity through hands-on volunteer work. These teens are not waiting for change to happen. They are making it happen themselves, right now, in ways that some adults still struggle to believe.One shining example of this bold movement is through Rockford’s "Alignment Rockford career academies". Students are gaining hands-on experience in fields like health care, engineering, education, and business. They are exploring real-world opportunities through internships, job shadows, and dual credit courses that let them earn college credit while still in high school. This is not theory. This is real-life practice. And it is preparing them to lead with purpose, grit, and determination.YouthBuild Rockford is another incredible program where young adults are not only learning practical job skills. They are building homes, earning their GEDs, and rewriting their stories. Many come from incredibly challenging backgrounds, stories you would not believe. But through YouthBuild, they find structure, support, and a renewed sense of purpose. Graduates often go on to trade school, college, or full-time employment. They are becoming positive role models, proving every day that where you start does not determine where you finish.But beyond the programs and beyond the awards, the most shocking and impressive thing is the mindset. Rockford’s youth are awake, aware, and engaged. They care deeply about their communities, about equity, about climate change, and about mental health. They are not afraid to ask hard questions. They are not afraid to demand better from those in power.These students are organizing walkouts, hosting open mics, leading peer discussions, and using social media to amplify unheard voices. They understand collaboration. These are not lone voices in the dark. They are creating collectives, partnering with adults who believe in them, and finding strength in unity. It is not always easy. Leadership rarely is. But they are learning, adjusting, and showing up again and again.And here is the part that might surprise you. It is working. From school board meetings to city council chambers, more and more young Rockfordians are showing up to participate in civic life. They are reminding us all that leadership does not have an age requirement. It only requires commitment and courage.The Rockford of tomorrow is being built today. It is being shaped in classrooms, on community stages, and in every small moment where a young person decides to try, to lead, to speak, and to listen. That is not just inspiring. That is the kind of hope that changes everything.GO LOCAL AND STAY IN THE BUZZ

Walk into any local market in Rockford, Illinois, and you will immediately feel it. The hum of creativity, the spark of invention, and the unmistakable drive of people who are building something from scratch. From handmade soaps to locally roasted coffee and custom woodcrafts, Rockford’s small businesses and maker movement are alive, growing, and making a name for themselves across the community.What makes Rockford’s makers so special is not just the incredible talent, it is the heart behind every product. These are not giant corporations. These are your neighbors, your baristas, your old classmates turning dreams into businesses. Whether it is someone selling earrings from their kitchen table or a woodworker running a garage studio, there is a personal story behind every creation. Take a walk through the Rockford City Market during the summer months, and you will see it firsthand. Booth after booth filled with passion projects. New small batch recipes, upcycled fashion, fresh local art prints, it is a celebration of self-starting and sharing. There is a special magic in meeting the person who made the thing you are taking home. You are not just buying a product. You are investing in someone’s dream.The impact goes deeper than just commerce. Rockford’s small businesses and maker community fuel the local economy. When you choose to shop local in Rockford, your dollars stay here. They support families, help pay for dance lessons, contribute to mortgage payments, and keep our neighborhoods vibrant. Makers often partner with other local Rockford businesses too, whether it is sourcing materials, doing pop-ups at local coffee shops, or teaming up for community events and causes. And it is not just products being made. It is a connection. It is creativity. It is confidence. Rockford makerspaces and community workshops are opening doors for people of all ages to access tools, mentorship, and encouragement. It is proof that when you give people the space and support to create, they will rise. They will experiment, fail, grow, and keep going. The Rockford maker movement is more than a passing trend. It is a sign that our city is filled with builders, not just of things but of hope and resilience. These are the people who do not wait for opportunities to come to them. They make their own.So next time you are shopping for a gift, redecorating a room, or looking for something unique, skip the big box stores. Shop local in Rockford. Support a maker. Remember, every handmade item has a heartbeat behind it.GO LOCAL AND STAY IN THE BUZZ

In the heart of Rockford, the local newspaper has long been more than just printed words; it has been a mirror, a megaphone, and a map for the community. For over a century, newspapers in Rockford Illinois, have captured the triumphs and trials of the people who call this city home. From headlines of industrial boom to civil rights marches, from snowstorm updates to high school football victories, the press has stitched together the very fabric of Rockford’s public memory.When we think of the history of newspapers one person comes to mind, and that's Kevin Haas. It was an amazing moment to get to question Kevin on the history. First reason is it's a turntable moment as Kevin has done tons of interviews on me, secondly, he knows this better than most. Born into the newsroom, Kevin’s father was a longtime editor at the Rockford Register Star. Kevin himself grew up delivering papers, then became a copy clerk, a job that no longer exists in today’s digital world. Back then, he would dash around the newsroom, typing up press releases and running courthouse records back to reporters. It was hands-on, ink-stained work. Over time, he climbed the ladder from reporter to editor, then senior editor, and now leads news coverage at The Current.Kevin’s story is rooted in legacy, but it also speaks to the shifting landscape of journalism.As print editions have shrunk and local staff cuts have hit newsrooms hard, Kevin reflects on what’s at stake, “The scary thing is we wouldn’t even realize what we’ve lost. We don’t know what we don’t know. If there aren’t enough reporters out there, stories just don’t get discovered.”He’s right. Local journalism is a cornerstone of accountability and connection. When reporters are out in neighborhoods, sitting in council meetings, and talking to everyday citizens, they’re not just reporting, they’re building bridges. Without them, gaps in knowledge widen, misinformation spreads, and communities are left unheard.Rockford’s newspaper history traces back to titles like the Morning Star and the Daily Register, which eventually merged to form the Rockford Register Star. Over time, the paper changed ownership and adapted to survive. Today, the Register Star is owned by Gannett Co., Inc., which operates USA Today and numerous other local newspapers across the country.And yet, journalism in Rockford is still deeply local. Writers like Kevin are focused on covering what matters here, not just national headlines, but what’s happening on your block, in your schools, at your city hall. That mission is more urgent than ever.Online media has added a new chapter to this story. It’s difficult to pinpoint when Rockford’s shift to digital began, but key milestones include:The Rockford Public Library’s digitization of historical newspapers, including archives from the Register Star, The Crusader, and The Labor News, dating back to the 19th centuryThe Midway Village Museum’s online collection of historical photographs and documentsLocal newspapers like the Register Star launching digital subscriptions and searchable archives, with coverage going back to 1999New platforms like The Current emerging to offer fast, mobile-first reportingThis evolution speaks to the resilience and reinvention of local journalism. While the printing press might be quieter than it used to be, the mission hasn’t faded. If anything, it’s louder. More immediate. More personal.As Logan put it, local news keeps you informed and grounded. It is rooted in the place you live, made by and for the community it serves. Without it, we risk trading trusted storytelling for filtered algorithms, letting Google decide what’s worthy and what’s not. And as the joke goes, if you want to hide something, just bury it on page three of a Google search.Looking ahead, Rockford’s news scene will continue to evolve, but its purpose will stay the same: to inform, to connect, and to hold space for every voice. Whether it’s delivered in ink or pixels, the real story is still Rockford itself, and we’re all part of writing the next chapter.GO LOCAL AND STAY IN THE BUZZ

When Stacey Wright joined the YWCA Northwestern Illinois, it wasn’t just about finding a job, it was about aligning her passion with a mission that truly matters. Eliminating racism, empowering women is more than a slogan at the YWCA. It’s a foundation for transformation. It’s what pulled Stacey in, and what drives programs like the YW Tech Lab forward.The YW Tech Lab is more than a classroom. It’s a launchpad for people looking to break into the ever-growing field of IT, particularly in support and help desk roles. The cornerstone of the program is its IT Support Specialist track, a 16-week course that blends technical training with hands-on life and career development. Think of it as a toolkit, one packed with Google IT Support and CompTIA A+ certification prep, but also confidence, communication skills, and community connections.This program is especially impactful for people of color, women, and anyone who has faced financial or systemic barriers. It meets folks where they are and helps them rise, not just to get a job, but to find pride, purpose, and potential.Participants receive weekly stipends, but only if they show up, on time, every day. It’s a system that mirrors the expectations of a real workplace, and Stacey makes no apologies for its structure. We operate as if we're their employer, she explained. If you're late, your stipend is gone for the week. That teaches accountability.But accountability doesn’t come without compassion. If a participant’s bus breaks down or a babysitter falls through, the staff at YWCA expects a text or a call, just like any job would. Life happens, but communication is key. We’re not heartless, Stacey said. We just want to prepare them to meet real-world expectations.Participants also receive assistance with transportation like bus passes and help completing applications for childcare assistance, recognizing the real-world barriers many face just trying to show up.Soft skills get just as much attention. There’s 80 hours dedicated to things like resume building, mock interviews, conflict resolution, and professionalism. We want them to be the full employee package, Stacey said. Not just know IT, but know how to carry themselves and communicate clearly.After completing the 16-week course, students are placed in a four-week paid internship with one of several local partners, including Rockford Public Schools, Winnebago County, Aqua Aerobic, Rockford Ball Screw, Rockford IT, and SupplyCore. For some, that internship can extend another 14 weeks through the Workforce Connection’s WEX program. This isn’t just about giving people a certificate, it’s about giving them a real shot at lasting employment.Support continues long after the program ends. The YW Tech Lab offers job coaching for up to a year afterward. We don’t want to abandon them, Stacey said. We want them to land that job and keep growing.This program was built for those who need a hand up, not a handout. It’s designed to lift up people who may have been told they weren’t enough or didn’t belong in tech. It’s structured, yes, but it’s filled with heart. A lot of young people have never had structure like this, Stacey said. But once they get used to it, it sets them apart.This isn’t just a class, it’s a new way of life. And the goal isn’t just employment, it’s empowerment, for families, for futures, for Rockford.The YWCA Northwestern Illinois has its own powerful story. Founded in Rockford in 1891, it has a strong, proud history and a rich tradition of providing progressive services to individuals and families in the region. Its mission is clear: eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.YWCA continuously adjusts to the emerging needs of the six counties it serves: Boone, Jo Daviess, McHenry, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago. It provides a holistic approach for each client or participant and believes strongly that the success of many of its programs is the ability to offer one-on-one case management to clients and connect them directly to the services they need.All staff in the organization receive implicit bias and cultural competency, and racial justice trainings. All have a deeper understanding of the many cultures that exist, beyond race and ethnicity.The next cohort begins July 21, 2025. Classes run weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the YWCA on East State Street in Rockford. Interested individuals should reach out to Stacey Wright at 815-968-9681, ext. 262 or email StaceyW@ywcanwil.org. Registration closes July 11, and space is limited.For anyone seeking a fresh start, a career change, or just a path forward with more stability and support, this might just be your moment.GO LOCAL AND STAY IN THE BUZZ

Rockford isn’t just made up of streets and neighborhoods, it’s made up of memories, milestones, and moments that often begin in our high schools. Whether you're a proud alum, a current student, or a parent checking out the options, there's something special about the halls that helped shape who we are. Let’s take a walk through Rockford’s high schools and see what makes each one unique.Auburn High School: Home of the Knights, Auburn is known for its strong focus on the arts and academics. Their CAPA (Creative and Performing Arts) program is one of the crown jewels of the Rockford Public Schools system, attracting students who want to shine in theatre, music, dance, and visual arts. Their music and theatre programs are top tier, and if you've ever caught one of their performances, you know the talent runs deep. Auburn also instills leadership and discipline in students through the ROTC Program, go Drill team!!East High School: You’ll find Red and Black pride at East High, home of the E Rabs. With a diverse student body and a growing emphasis on career pathways, East has built up its Career and Technical Education (CTE) offerings, perfect for students looking to gain real-world skills while still in high school. Their sports programs, especially basketball, are well known, and community support for the E Rabs runs strong. #IraMathews Guilford High School: Viking pride lives at Guilford. Known for its balance between academics, athletics, and arts, Guilford continues to evolve with programs in engineering, health sciences, and more. Their strong alumni network means you’re never far from someone who’s walked those same halls, and we mean strong NETWORK!!!!Jefferson High School: Jefferson is where J Hawk pride soars. A school with a strong sense of community, Jefferson emphasizes equity and inclusion, making it a welcoming environment for all students. Their arts programs, particularly visual arts, stand out along with their strong athletic programs, especially in basketball and bowling. Plus, they have an amazing boys' volleyball team and library!Roosevelt Community Education Center: For students needing a more personalized or alternative approach to education, Roosevelt offers flexibility and support. It’s a second chance for many students, and the staff’s dedication to helping each student succeed creates an atmosphere of respect and empowerment. While Roosevelt does not follow the Academy model like the other public high schools, its mission is no less impactful, offering individualized learning environments tailored to each student’s needs.The Academy Model: Preparing Students for Real Life: One of the most exciting elements of Rockford Public Schools is the Academy model, which is used in all high schools except Roosevelt. Each high school offers career-focused pathways that begin in a student’s sophomore year and include three-course sequences. These programs connect students with local businesses and professionals, giving them hands-on experience while learning core subjects like math, English, and science. Students can even earn dual credit or industry certifications. It’s not just about getting a diploma—it’s about preparing for life after graduation in a way that feels relevant and meaningful.Honoring the Legacy: Maybe you remember your Friday night football games, homecoming week, or that one teacher who believed in you when you didn’t believe in yourself. Maybe you met your best friend, or even your spouse, on one of these campuses. Rockford’s high schools are more than just institutions; they’re where our stories began.Still Part of the Story: Even if you haven’t walked through those doors in years, your school is still shaping lives, creating futures, and building community. And if you're new to Rockford or looking ahead for your kids, just know, there’s a lot of heart behind these walls.No matter where you went, one thing’s for sure: high school in Rockford leaves a mark.GO LOCAL & STAY IN THE BUZZ

Rockford’s nickname isn’t just for show—The Forest City truly lives up to the name. With thousands of acres of parks, gardens, and preserves across Rockford, Loves Park, and Machesney Park, our local green spaces are more than beautiful backdrops—they're where memories are made.Whether you’re chasing silence or adventure, here’s a handpicked guide to standout parks that’ll bring joy, reflection, and that deep breath of fresh air we all need.🌿 Anderson Japanese GardensA place of calm, connection, and curated beauty. Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford feels like stepping into a living painting. With koi ponds, waterfalls, and winding paths, it’s the kind of space that slows you down in the best way. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a summer music night under the stars—it’s unforgettable.🌲 Klehm Arboretum & Botanic GardenIn every season, Klehm stuns. 155 acres of cultivated gardens, natural woodlands, and themed areas like the prehistoric garden and butterfly haven. Walk the trails, find your favorite tree, or bring the kids for creek splashing and nature adventures. It’s science, peace, and play rolled into one.🌸 Sinnissippi Park & Rose GardenRight along the Rock River, Sinnissippi Park is one of the city’s oldest and most beloved parks. Grab a blanket and a book, stroll the stunning rose garden, or head over for Music in the Park concerts at the band shell. There’s a reason generations have grown up here—it’s timeless.🌎 Keeling-Puri Peace PlazaIt’s not your typical park, but the message hits home. This contemplative green space in Loves Park celebrates unity, diversity, and peaceful living with sculptures and global flags. Sometimes the quietest spaces say the most.🏞️ Rock Cut State ParkTechnically just a whisper outside Rockford’s borders in Loves Park, Rock Cut is where wild days and quiet nights collide. Kayaking, hiking, biking, camping, horseback riding—you name it. Pierce Lake is the perfect paddling spot, and those sunset views? Postcard-worthy.🐦 Severson Dells Nature CenterTucked away but never forgotten, Severson Dells in Rockford offers forest paths, wildlife sightings, and a nature center that sparks curiosity in kids and adults alike. Great for birdwatchers, nature photographers, or anyone who needs to hear leaves crunching underfoot.🐴 Atwood Park and Nature CenterHome to the Birds of Prey exhibit and mountain biking trails, Atwood in Rockford has that perfect mix of history and adventure. It even has remnants of Camp Grant bunkers if you’re in the mood to explore something a little offbeat.🐾 Searls Park Dog ParkIn the heart of Rockford, this off-leash dog park lets pups run wild while you relax under shade trees. It’s big, it’s friendly, and it’s the kind of place where tails—and friendships—wag freely.🐢 Beattie Park MoundsA quiet, spiritual space in downtown Rockford. Home to Native American effigy mounds shaped like turtles and cones, Beattie Park connects us to ancient history. It's a place for reflection more than recreation, but it holds something powerful.🌱 Blackhawk Springs Forest PreserveLocated in Rockford, this lush preserve is the go-to for those seeking a long walk in nature. Trails wind through prairie and woods, and you might just spot deer, foxes, or soaring hawks on your journey.🌊 Nicholas Conservatory & GardensOn the banks of the Rock River, this indoor garden paradise lets you enjoy tropical plants, fountains, and sunshine—even in the middle of winter. Step outside to explore the Eclipse Lagoon or take a walk on the river path—it’s an all-season escape.Why It MattersParks aren’t just places to visit—they’re places to feel. To breathe, to laugh, to recharge. From spontaneous picnics to long walks and moments of wonder, Rockford area parks have a way of turning ordinary days into unforgettable ones.So whether you're planning your next outdoor adventure or just need a reset, there’s a green corner of Rockford, Loves Park, or Machesney Park waiting for you.GO LOCAL & STAY IN THE BUZZ

In every strong community, there’s a spark, something that keeps people going when the weight gets heavy. In Rockford, that spark is the Rockford Empowerment Center.You may know them from the book bag drives or the Christmas Hope giveaways. Maybe you've danced at one of their monthly block parties or seen them show up with food, supplies, or a simple helping hand. But what you might not know is why they do it, or how deep that commitment runs.Let’s take a closer look at the heart behind the REC.🏡 A Neighborhood First MissionThe Rockford Empowerment Center isn’t just a faith based nonprofit, it’s a lifeline. Their mission is clear and powerful, transforming lives with tangible help and hope.From work to food, health to housing, youth support to spiritual care, REC meets people where they are. There’s no checklist to qualify. If there’s a need, they’ll find a way.They believe that true transformation happens through relationships, not handouts. That means walking alongside neighbors, not just offering support, but building community.🎒 Backpacks, Block Parties, and a Whole Lot of HopeEvery year, REC hosts a massive book bag drive, delivering school supplies to around 2,500 local students because confidence in the classroom starts with the right tools.In the winter, they partner with elementary schools across the city to bring joy through their Christmas Hope program, making sure every child in those schools receives a gift. It’s more than presents, it’s presence.And all year long? Monthly block parties that turn city streets into celebration zones, complete with food, music, and unity. These events don’t just lift spirits, they revive communities.It’s easy to imagine one of those Christmas mornings. A child quietly opening a gift they never expected, holding it close like it means the world. Those small, silent moments, that’s the kind of hope REC gives. Not loud or flashy. Just real.💡 Why They Do It, Hope as a StrategyThe REC doesn’t exist to patch over problems. It exists to build lasting change.Their philosophy is simple but profound: hope reaffirms change. And no one should have to fight for change alone.They work with community partners, residents, volunteers, and organizations, bridging gaps that often leave people feeling forgotten. Whether it’s food insecurity, job access, or emotional support, REC steps into the gap with intention.📍 Where It All StartedBack in 2022, the City of Rockford launched a bold plan to invest in six neighborhoods most affected by crime. Three of those neighborhoods fell within the 13th Ward, and REC knew it was time to act.With a heart rooted in these very streets, REC stepped in with a vision:Build safe, supportive environmentsConnect residents to the services they need to thriveToday, that vision continues. They’re working toward a permanent building in one of these underserved neighborhoods, a place where consistency, community, and care come together daily.🌱 The Bigger Picture, Empowering the EmpowerersREC doesn’t just help individuals, they’re building a model. One that can uplift organizations, too.Their goal? To develop systems that guide and empower other local groups on the same mission of hope. Because when one organization succeeds, the whole city rises.💬 Final WordAt the Rockford Empowerment Center, there’s no “us” and “them.” There’s only we. We, the neighbors who care. We are the families who need a little help. We, the changemakers, are building something better. This is Rockford, real, resilient, and rising. And with the REC in our corner, the future looks a little brighter. If you're wanting to reach out and find out more about REC, or help the link to their website, click HERE!GO LOCAL & STAY IN THE BUZZ

Rockford gets a lot of love for its parks, arts scene, and that warm hometown vibe, but there’s a whole lot more under the surface if you know where to look. So, whether you’ve lived here your whole life or just found your way to our corner of the Midwest, here are some feel-good facts about Rockford that’ll make you smile, nod, or maybe raise an eyebrow.Let’s get into it—because Rockford isn’t just a place you live. It’s a place you learn to love more, one quirky detail at a time.🌳 1. We’ve Got More Green Than You ThinkWith over 7,000 acres of parkland, Rockford is one of the greenest cities in the country. We’re talking about spots like Sinnissippi Park, the Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, and Anderson Japanese Gardens—where summer walks turn into therapy. Even our bike paths go on for miles (literally).🎸 2. Birthplace of Cheap TrickYep, Rockford gave the world one of the most iconic rock bands of the '70s and 80s—Cheap Trick. The band's roots trace back to the early 1970s when Rick Nielsen and Tom Petersson formed the band Fuse, which later evolved into Cheap Trick. Their legacy is woven into the city’s culture (there’s a guitar-shaped sign on the east side to prove it), and you can still catch their spirit at places like Mary’s Place and the Coronado Performing Arts Center. Whether you're blasting "Surrender" in your car or introducing the next generation to their live album magic, Rockford’s rock roots still run loud and proud.🍩 3. Beignets in the Midwest? You Bet.You don’t have to fly to New Orleans to get a powdered sugar fix. The Norwegian serves up warm, fluffy beignets that rival the originals, tucked right into a brunch menu that sings of soul and Scandinavian roots. Coffee, music, and a sweet treat? It’s a yes from us.🧠 4. Our Museums Are Wildly InteractiveRockford’s Discovery Center Museum is consistently ranked one of the best children’s museums in the country. But you don’t have to be a kid to be amazed—this place has everything from a bubble room to a full-blown outdoor science park. And yes, adults are *definitely* allowed to play.🧥 5. The Rockford Peaches Played Ball Before It Was CoolBefore “A League of Their Own” hit theaters, the Rockford Peaches were already making history. This women’s baseball team played from 1943 to 1954 as part of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. You can still catch nods to them all over town, especially at Beyer Stadium.🐶 6. We Bake for Dogs—Like, Really WellThe Canine Crunchery on East State Street makes gourmet dog treats that are almost cute enough to eat (we said *almost*). Handmade in small batches, they’ve got everything from birthday cakes to bacon biscuits. Your dog deserves a Rockford foodie moment, too.💿 7. Vinyl Never Died HereCulture Shock on Charles Street is like a time capsule with a pulse—part record store, part vintage shop, and part local art showcase. You can pick up a Bowie record, a retro tee, and a handmade candle in one trip. It’s like your cool cousin’s basement, but better lit.🍝 8. Franchesco’s Is Still the Gold StandardLocals know: Franchesco’s Ristorante isn’t just where you go for a fancy meal—it’s where memories happen. From prom nights to anniversary dinners, this family-run favorite has been serving up handmade pastas and sizzling steaks with a side of Rockford elegance for decades. No pretense—just really good food done right.🧵 9. We Print Our Pride at Rockford Art DeliRAD doesn’t just sell t-shirts. They sell identity. Every First Friday, they do live printing events that turn blank tees into walking hometown love letters. Sustainability meets style, and somehow it just works.📚 10. Yes, We Had Abraham Lincoln—Sort OfLincoln visited Rockford back in 1859, during his run for the U.S. Senate. While he lost that race, the visit stuck—and you’ll find little nods to Honest Abe tucked throughout the city, especially near Veterans Memorial Hall and in local lore.Rockford’s Full of Little WondersIt’s easy to overlook the place you live. But when you slow down, look closer, and ask the right questions, you’ll realize Rockford’s got layers. We’re not just the Forest City. We’re a proud city. The city that sings, plays, and shows up.So the next time you’re grabbing coffee at Meg’s or catching a show downtown, remember: there’s history, humor, and a whole lot of heart right beneath your feet.GO LOCAL & STAY IN THE BUZZ

Summer doesn’t need plane tickets or Pinterest-perfect itineraries. Sometimes, all it takes is a little time, an open heart, and a short drive to that cozy spot on the corner that knows your name—or remembers your drink.Rockford has those places. The kind that stays with you long after the cold brew wears off. The kind you tell your cousin about when they visit from out of town. These aren’t just businesses. They’re stories. So here’s your local love list—10 Rockford spots to check out this summer if you're craving something real.☕ 1. Meg’s Daily Grind: The Coffee Corner That Feels Like a HugYou walk in, and somehow—despite the morning chaos or post-work fog—it already feels like you're halfway home. That’s Meg’s. It’s not just the coffee, although their iced lattes and cold brews hit all the right notes. It’s the handwritten signs, the staff who remember your name, and the daily specials scribbled like a secret only the regulars know. Whether you're grabbing a quick fix before work or settling in with your laptop and a muffin, Meg’s blends caffeine and comfort in just the right measure. It's a cornerstone of Rockford mornings, and this summer, it should be part of yours.🎶 2. Mary’s Place: Where Rockford’s Soul SingsMary’s Place is Rockford’s musical heartbeat. Known for being one of the oldest continuously operating live music bars in Illinois, it’s more than just a venue—it’s a legacy. In the summer, the patio fills with laughter, guitar chords, and that rare kind of joy that comes from feeling like you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. From local bands to surprise sets, the lineup is always fresh, and the vibe is always welcoming. Bring your friends, your dancing shoes, or just your love for good music and better people.🥂 3. The Norwegian: Brunch With a Twist of SoulAt The Norwegian, every plate tells a story. This spot serves up hearty Scandinavian-inspired dishes with Rockford roots and modern flair. You might come for the cardamom buns or smoked salmon toast, but you'll stay for the vibe—live music, eclectic art, and a patio that feels like a garden party you’re lucky to crash. Their commitment to sourcing locally and serving with soul makes every bite something to savor. Brunch here isn’t just a meal; it’s a mood.👕 4. Rockford Art Deli: Your T-Shirt’s Favorite ShopRockford Art Deli is more than a screen-printing shop—it’s a love letter to Rockford. Whether you’re sporting a RAD tee that reps your favorite Rockford neighborhood or showing up for First Friday live print nights, there’s always something happening here. Every shirt is printed with eco-conscious ink, every event is buzzing with energy, and every visit is a reminder that local pride looks good on everyone. If you're looking to wear your Rockford heart on your sleeve—literally—this is the place.🍷 5. Franchesco’s Ristorante: Where Flavor Meets CelebrationFranchesco’s isn’t just a dinner out—it’s a full experience. From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed like family, with attentive service and an atmosphere that’s both vibrant and elegant. The food? Incredible. Hand-cut steaks, house-made pastas, fresh seafood flown in weekly—it’s the kind of place where every dish feels like it was made for a special occasion. In the summer, their patio turns dining into an event, with lights twinkling overhead and a menu that makes it hard to pick just one thing. Whether you’re celebrating something big or just treating yourself to a great night, Franchesco’s always delivers.🧪 6. Discovery Center Museum: Where Learning Feels Like PlayThis isn't your average museum. At Discovery Center, kids don’t just observe—they dive in, build, climb, splash, and explore. With more than 250 interactive exhibits, everything is hands-on and full of surprise, from giant bubble makers to robotics labs. In the summer, the outdoor science park adds another level of fun—think water experiments, pulley races, and dig pits. Whether you're wrangling toddlers or entertaining curious tweens, this place is pure magic. And the best part? You’ll probably learn something too.💦 7. West Rock Wake Park: Summer’s Boldest DetourThere’s something thrilling about West Rock Wake Park, even if you’ve never touched a wakeboard in your life. Located inside Levings Park, it’s a full cable wakeboarding experience—and the first of its kind in the Midwest. But don’t worry, beginners are welcome. Lessons are available, the crew is supportive, and there’s just as much fun to be had watching from the shore. With rentals, food, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a perfect summer day waiting to happen.🌿 8. Alchemy at Aldeen: Scenic Bites & Elevated NightsNestled at the Aldeen Golf Club, Alchemy offers far more than a meal—it’s a relaxing retreat. The views are serene, the dishes are thoughtfully prepared, and the ambiance is effortless. Their menu changes with the seasons and sources locally when possible, making every visit a little different. The outdoor seating is one of Rockford’s hidden treasures, offering sunsets, good wine, and soft breezes. Whether you’re finishing a round of golf or simply showing up for the view, Alchemy delivers.🎧 9. Culture Shock: Local Finds with PersonalityCulture Shock isn’t just a store—it’s a vibe. A record shop with a twist, this locally-owned favorite is also home to vintage apparel, quirky gifts, and Rockford-themed treasures you won’t find anywhere else. Dig through vinyl, chat with the ultra-knowledgeable staff, and maybe leave with a band tee, some incense, or a record that reminds you of high school. It’s a treasure hunt, but cooler. And yes—there’s air conditioning.🐶 10. The Canine Crunchery: Because Dogs Deserve Local TooYour pup puts up with a lot—zoom calls, mailmen, those long winter nights. Reward them with a trip to The Canine Crunchery. This small-batch, handmade dog treat bakery is a labor of love. Everything is made with simple, natural ingredients, and the selection ranges from birthday cakes to peanut butter biscuits your dog will absolutely drool over. Bring your furry friend and let them sniff out their favorite. Bonus: They might just leave with a tail-wagging grin.So, What’s the Rush?Summer moves fast, but you don’t have to. You can slow down. You can pick one of these spots and just be there. That’s the magic of local—the connection, the comfort, the little ways we show up for each other.Because around here, supporting local doesn’t just keep the lights on. It keeps the soul of Rockford glowing.GO LOCAL & STAY IN THE BUZZ

Rockford, IL, is home to some amazing hidden gems that locals often overlook. Whether you’re looking to unwind or simply enjoy the beauty of the city, these lesser-known spots offer the perfect escape without the crowds.1. Anderson Japanese Gardens. One of the most beautiful spots in Rockford, Anderson Japanese Gardens is an oasis of tranquility. Its picturesque landscapes, koi-filled ponds, and peaceful walking paths provide the perfect setting for a relaxing day of reflection or even a casual stroll. Whether you’re a nature lover or an art enthusiast, the serene beauty of these gardens is sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated.2. The Burpee Museum of Natural History. For those who appreciate a mix of history and science, the Burpee Museum offers a fascinating look into the natural world. With exhibits featuring everything from ancient fossils to interactive displays, it’s a perfect way to learn something new while enjoying a quiet afternoon.3. Prairie Street Brewhouse If you’re looking for a relaxed dining experience, head over to Prairie Street Brewhouse. With its expansive patio and picturesque views of the Rock River, this spot offers a great atmosphere to kick back with friends or just enjoy a cold one by the river.4. Rock Cut State Park For nature lovers, Rock Cut State Park is a hidden treasure just outside of the city. The park features miles of trails for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. The lakes are perfect for fishing, kayaking, or just relaxing by the shore. It’s a beautiful spot to unwind and enjoy the outdoors in peace.5. Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens. This historic home is a hidden gem that offers a fascinating glimpse into Rockford’s past. The Victorian-era cottage is surrounded by beautiful gardens, making it a great spot for those who love history and nature combined. The tours provide a deeper look at the unique history of the house and its former residents.Why These Spots Matter: Rockford’s hidden gems offer peaceful escapes from everyday life, and they provide a chance to experience the city in a whole new way. Whether you're looking for nature, history, or just a quiet place to relax, Rockford has something to offer. So, take a break from the usual spots and explore these hidden gems to unwind and enjoy some local beauty.GO LOCAL & STAY IN THE BUZZ