Rockford Things to Do Tips by dlandt

All unexpected gems end up taken with a cell phone camera and Carlysle was just such a find. They brew their own beer on premises and have an assortment of 12-15 different brews, with some seasonality. They also serve food like bratwurst and hot pretzels, though I didn't eat. The pub isn't that large, can accomodate maybe 60 people comfortably, more if they squeeze. Sadly, they don't bottle their beer for carry-out, but do offer 'grinders" half gallon jugs at $14 for the first, refillable for $9. This is a true local place. Their beers are served in some local restaurants, but they best, of course, fresh out of the tap. While you're sampling beer, your wife can be in the chocolaterie next door!

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Phone: 815.963.BREW (2739)
Address: 215 East State Street
Directions: The nicer part of downtown
Website: http://www.carlylebrewing.com/

The Er;lander Home Museum is dedicated to preserving the memory of Swedish immigration and culture to the Rockford area. They have displays of dolls, furniture, photographs etc. They are open T W Th & F from 1-4 and Sundays from 2-4 so your window of opportunity here is quite small. Their webpage features upcoming local events of a Swedish nature, the biggest of which is Midsommarfest.

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Phone: (815) 963.5559
Address: 404 S. 3rd St. Rockford, Illinois 61104
Directions: Close to downtown in the historic area
Website: http://www.swedishhistorical.org/

Rockford isn't exactly the cultural center of North America, but it isn't it's Siberia either. Among the cultural attractions Rockford has to offer are the Japanese gardens really on Japanese and one art deco garden.

Inexpensive, well maintained and serene, the gardens were designed by the Japanese with their ideas of self contemplation and tranquility. The gardens, especially the newer garden are not in keeping with Zen traditions ( feeding the koi and angelic sculptures prominently displayed) but they are tranquil and relaxing, with built in audio and visual sedatives liek running water and raked gravel gardens. They have a traditional Japanese tea room, a large nmber of Koi (who have been trained to beg for food) and a main hall that is reminiscient of contemporary Japanese style. It really does remind you of modern Japanese baths!

The gardens are beautiful, relaxing, and meditaive. The natural sound sof running or falling water, birds, and wind make for an experience as alien to Rockford as it is common to Japan. Don't miss the Anderson Gadens if you visit Rockford. $6 for adults.

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Phone: 815-229-9390
Address: 318 Spring Creek Rd
Directions: North end of Rockford
Website: http://www.andersongardens.org/