Fall Things To Do in Rockford, IL

Rockford, Illinois, comes alive with vibrant colors and exciting activities during the fall season. From scenic parks to delicious eateries, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Explore our curated list of must-visit attractions and unique experiences below.

See the Foliage

Make a visit to the award-winning Anderson Japanese Gardens where you can stroll through 12 acres of carefully designed and patiently pruned unique gardens and get a glimpse of fire orange, red and bright yellow leaves

Klehm Arboretum is a must see in the fall! With 155-acres of woodlands and botanical gardens, stroll through 1.4 miles of paved handicap-accessible paths and or take the dirt road and hike 3 miles of wooded trails to see the beautiful fall foliage. 

Embrace the beauty of fall foliage with hiking trails, fishing spots, and breathtaking views at Rock Cut State Park. As the leaves change colors, the park transforms into a picturesque landscape, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in nature's splendor.

Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve is one of Winnebago County's most picturesque preserves and popular camp grounds. During the fall, it offers breathtaking views of the leaves as they change.

Visit the Nygren Wetland Preserve where birders will enjoy looking for a variety of species amongst the changing leaves. This 721-acre tract near the Rock and Pecatonica Rivers serves as an important stopover and nesting spot for many species of birds.

Grab a Bite

Situated along the scenic Rock River, Prairie Street Brewing Co is the perfect place to sip locally crafted brews with an idyllic fall backdrop.

Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Lino's, where homemade pastas and seasonal dishes await. From hearty soups to savory risottos, each bite at Lino's is a celebration of flavors.

Experience Rockford's culinary heritage with hearty breakfasts and Swedish delicacies at Stockholm Inn, a beloved local gem. From pumpkin pancakes to Swedish meatballs, indulge in comforting dishes that capture the essence of fall and warm the soul.

Savor the flavors of the season at The Norwegian. Dine in a cozy atmosphere and experience their rotating menu featuring seasonal dishes with produce sourced from local farms that highlight the region's culinary bounty.

Apple Picking

More than a dozen varieties of apples are just waiting to be plucked in Rockford. Enjoy a fun-filled day of apple picking with family and friends, and savor the fresh flavors of fall straight from the tree at Curran's Orchard.

In addition to the 18 varieties of apples available at Edwards Apple Orchard West, they also offer weekend tractor rides into the orchard. Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the orchard and taste their homemade apple cider and donuts.

Valley Orchard is a 35-acre family-owned orchard and boasts approximately 5,000 apple trees, making it a prime destination for apple picking enthusiasts. Explore the picturesque orchard, breathe in the crisp autumn air, and create lasting memories amidst rows of bountiful apple trees.

Fall Festivals and Spooky Delights

Step back in time at Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum, where Victorian-era architecture and fascinating history come to life against the backdrop of fall colors. Explore the historic home, stroll through lush gardens, or sign up for a paranormal tour and experience the magic of autumn in this enchanting setting. 

Roscoe Fall Festival has been an annual tradition since 1910! Carnival rides, food vendors, and live music take over Leland Park in the Village of Roscoe for 3 days of fun. Don't miss the parade down Main Street that kicks off the final day of festivities.

German Society Oktoberfest - Raise your stein and celebrate German culture with music, food and beer. This event is organized by the German Society Oktoberfest and features a variety of attractions such as cultural booths, souvenir booths, children’s areas, stein-holding contests, tapping of the keg with Mayor Jury, the crowning of Miss Oktoberfest and authentic German dancing and beer.

Dress up in costume and trick-or-treat outdoors in the Victorian Village at Midway Village Museum's All Hallow's Eve. See spooky attractions and have family-friendly fun at this Halloween event. Throughout the day there are games, over 20 village buildings decked out in spooky decorations, scary folktales, a costume contests and more.

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, culinary delights, or cultural experiences, Rockford, IL, promises an unforgettable fall getaway. Start planning your trip now and immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of autumn in Rockford.