- The list below includes 50 free or cheap things to do in or near Rockford, Illinois, including 74 different types of inexpensive activities like History Museums, Gardens, Parks and Off Road & ATV.
- From Anderson Japanese Gardens to Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Rockford and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Beloit, Loves Park, Cherry Valley and Oregon.
Showing 1-10 of
248
2.2 Miles
Take a tour or spend an afternoon strolling through the meticulously maintained Anderson Japanese Gardens. Experience authentic Japanese cultural heritage among the fountains, ponds, and seating areas.
1.5 Miles
90%
125 votes
1354 North 2nd Street, Rockford, IL 61107
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Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens is a botanical garden featuring over 11,000 sq ft. of plant exhibition. Water fountains and falls, a pedestrian bridge, patios, walkways and seating areas set the stage for beautiful tropical plants and featured events.
1.7 Miles
Sinnissippi Park is located on the banks of the Rock River and features hiking, biking or walking paths among beautiful gardens. Spend the day exploring sculptures, having a picnic or enjoying a concert at the band shell.
3.4 Miles
Commonly visited for its disc golf course, Anna Page Park is a public park featuring a number of amenities for visitors to enjoy. Other amenities include a walking trail, sheltered pavilion with picnic tables, and a large playground.
6.9 Miles
The Elliot Park Skate Park offers activities such as skateboarding, BMX Biking, in-line skating, rollerblading, scooter riding, and parkour. The park has a beautiful atmosphere and is surrounded by forestry and nearby playgrounds.
2.1 Miles
Created as a living museum, the Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden is a 155-acre park, featuring gardens, fountains, and sculptures. A perfect location for hiking or biking the trails, there is a children's garden and facilities for weddings and private parties.
0.4 Miles
The Discovery Center Museum combines playing and learning, with the aid of its more than 250 hands-on exhibits. Special events can be programmed in here, all around the year.
0.5 Miles
89%
123 votes
737 North Main Street, Rockford, IL 61103
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Burpee Museum of Natural History exhibits over 70,000 specimens from the Paleontology, Anthropology, Geology and Biology domains. The children's favorite attractions are, of course, the dinosaurs, with Jane the T-Rex and Homer the Triceratops in the lead.
5.7 Miles
Step back into life at the turn of the 20th century with a visit to Midway Village & Museum Center. The village features 24 buildings, several museums and special events are held throughout the year.
0.7 Miles
Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens is a veritable time capsule of life in the Victorian era. Worth a visit to see one of the few remaining Swiss-style homes left in the United States and a leisurely stroll through the gardens.