Rockford – Things to do with your Team

Rockford sits on both banks of the scenic Rock River in northern Illinois just 15 miles south of the Wisconsin border. Referred to as the Forest City, Rockford is known for various venues of cultural or historical significance. Rockford is also a hub for amateur sports, with more impressive facilities than most cities five times the size.

If you are bringing your team to Rockford to play at one of the many sports complexes there, such as Mercyhealth Sportscore and UW Health Sports Factory, then you are in store for beautiful scenery and lots of outdoor activities. Here are some places to visit and activities to consider for your travel list.

 

Ski Broncs Water Ski Show Team

Attractions don’t get more unique than this. Take in the spectacle that is the Ski Broncs Water Ski Show Team. The Ski Broncs perform about 30 to 35 shows at Shorewood Park. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, they offer a great deal: free shows every Wednesday and Friday.

Their shows are full of energy and they know how to get the crowd pumped up. The costumes that they wear are showstoppers alone, combined with the routine of their show, and you won’t believe your eyes. You’ve never seen water skiing like this before. 5100 East Dr, Loves Park, IL 61111

 

Burpee Museum of Natural History

There aren’t many natural history museums that have the quality of dinosaur exhibits like Burpee Museum of Natural History.

One of the stars of this museum is a Tyrannosaurus rex that goes by the name of Jane. This young dinosaur was discovered by researchers in the Montana badlands and her discovery has been labeled as one of the ten most important dinosaur discoveries in 100 years. You won’t believe your eyes as you gaze at this specimen and learn all about it.

Another major attraction to keep your eyes peeled for is known as Homer. This triceratops was found in the Montana badlands as well and his discovery continues to be an on going process for the museum staff. Go and appreciate the progress the staff has completed and the display of Homer. You can also see the researchers work on parts of Homer, and other dinosaur fossils, that haven’t been assembled and put on display.

Burpee Museum has plenty more in store for you and your team besides dinosaurs. With four floors full of exhibits, you will encounter a woolly mammoth skeleton, an entire exhibit on Native American tribes that once lived in the area, many geological displays, and more.  737 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103

 

Forest Preserves of Winnebago County

Amidst the Rockford area reside the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County. Walk through any of the hiking trails and take a break from the hustle and bustle of every day life. Get some fresh air and appreciate the scenic views of Illinois. The preserves have everything you would want to see on a hike. Babbling streams, steep cliffs, grassy fields, wildflowers, the list goes on.

Depending on the preserve, you can bring your team for a multitude of activities like hiking, picnicking, fishing, camping, canoeing, and other recreational activities. Visit the park’s website to see what events will be happening during your visit.

 

Magic Waters Waterpark

Magic Waters Waterpark is a family-friendly, outdoors water park in Rockford. It is home to Illinois’ largest wave pool, a 75-foot-tall speed slide, a lazy river ride, and the Abyss, which is a soaking trip through a dark, winding tunnel and before you know it, you’re shooting out the other side into a pool. Don’t miss the Screaming Lizard, a water slide is on a 45-degree angle where riders go from 0 to 37 miles per hour in seconds, basically defying gravity. 7820 Cherryvale N Blvd, Cherry Valley, IL 61016

 

West Rock Wake Park

Rockford - Things to do with your Team - Travel - Hotels4TeamsWake boarding in Illinois? Yep, that’s right. Visit West Rock Wake Park with your team and ride the water.

You may be wondering how exactly you can wake board without a boat. The secret lies in West Rock Wake Park’s cable system. Instead of depending on a boat to provide the power needed to drag you through the water, these cables accomplish the job in a much easier and less noisy manner.

All you need to do is bring your bathing suit and a towel and West Rock Wake Park will take care of the rest. 1420 S Pierpont Ave, Rockford, IL 61102

 

Discovery Center Museum

The Discovery Center Museum is a hands-on children’s science museum with more than 300 exciting interactive exhibits spread throughout 23,000 square feet on two floors.

Exhibit galleries focus on the human body, forms of electricity, the science of sports, space travel, simple machines, communication, agriculture, color and light, math, and more. Out in the museum’s backyard, visitors can explore our Rock River Discovery Park, a 15,000 square foot multi-level science park featuring a dinosaur dig pit, maze, water play area and a Secret Garden. 711 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103

 

Laser Quest Rockford

Laser Quest Rockford is a family entertainment venue in Rockford that combines excitement of hide-and-seek and tag with laser guns. Team up and fight against the enemy team to find out who’s the best. The swirling fog and high energy music will get you pumped up and ready to play until you’re too tired to do so. 293 Executive Pkwy, Rockford, IL 61107

 

To find hotel rooms closest to where your team is playing in Rockford or any city, visit https://www.hotels4teams.com/. Hotels4Teams – The Best Hotels at the Best Prices, Closest to the Action!

 

Rockford City Market

Need to get your shopping fix during your stay in Rockford? The Rockford City Market sets up shop in downtown Rockford every Friday from mid-May to late September. The market features local farmers and vendors who sell produce, handmade crafts and clothing, and more. You can also count on some live music and kids activities. With over 70 vendors, you are sure to fine great stuff to eat and to take home. 124 N Water St, Rockford, IL 61107

 

Monkey Joe’s

If you’re traveling with a younger team, Monkey Joe’s is a solid contender of an attraction. Appropriate for kids 12 and under, Monkey Joe’s is the area’s premier inflatable indoor playground. Your team will love all of the slides, jumps, and obstacle courses. They can go nuts, and you won’t have to worry about anyone getting hurt because the inflatables make things really safe. As an added bonus, Monkey Joe’s has a lounge where you can sit and relax for a bit while the team plays. 6663 E State St, Rockford, IL 61108

 

Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens

Residing adjacent to the beautiful Rock River, Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens makes you feel like you’ve left the Midwest behind for a more tropical setting.

Rockford - Things to do with your Team - Travel - Hotels4Teams

As the third largest conservatory in Illinois, Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens consists of 11,000 square feet of colorful plants, water features, sculptures, and seating areas.

As you walk through the lush gardens and smell the sweet scent of the flowers, make sure to visit Eclipse Lagoon. This section of the conservatory features two fountains, a walking bridge, patio areas, and even a waterfall! 1354 N 2nd St, Rockford, IL 61107

 

Visiting the beautiful northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin border area where Rockford is located will give your team ample opportunities for fun. If you run out of things to do, add in a one and a half hour drive due north to the Wisconsin Dells for a famous World War II-era duck boat ride!