Community Series: 5 Free Things to Do in Rockford, IL this Summer
June 26, 2019
It’s finally summertime. Kids are out of school, adults are dreaming of the days when they had a summer break, and everyone is itching to get outside and enjoy the warm weather.
However, getting out and active can sometimes be expensive. Thankfully, Rockford, IL offers more than one way for you and your family to enjoy a warm summer day without spending any money.
1. Friday Night Flix
Everyone likes a good family movie night and with Friday Night Flix you can enjoy one for free. Take your family and head out to the BMO Harris Bank Center at 300 Elm Street on a Friday night to enjoy a family-friendly movie out on the lawn. This is the perfect way to relax while enjoying the beautiful summer weather.
The best way to stay up-to-date with the movie schedule and weather cancellations is to follow the Friday Night Flix Facebook page, but you can also check out the Go Rockford website. This summer you can look forward to seeing The Lego Movie 2, Trolls, and more.
2. Free Trolley Tours
A trolley ride is a great way to spend your time out in the community without breaking the bank. If you need something to occupy your evenings, consider taking a trolley tour. Rockford offers two trolley tours per week throughout the summer months.
Foodies might consider heading out on Tuesday evenings from 5pm – 9pm to take a trolley and partake in “Food Truck Tuesday” along the Rock River Rec Path. For a relaxing Friday night, take the trolley from 4pm – 8pm and enjoy free rides during City Market. This is a fun opportunity to explore new things, meet new people, and spend time in the community.
3. Ski Broncs Water-Skiing Show
The Ski Broncs are Rockford’s world-class water ski show team and they’re sure to be a treat for people of all ages. Whether you’re going with family or friends, this show is a great opportunity to sit back, relax, and enjoy a unique event. Shows and parking are both free, and there are concessions available for anyone with a dollar to spare.
4. Pecatonica Prairie Trail
The Pecatonica Prairie Trail is the perfect place to go on warm days that you want to spend outside. The trail is 29.5 miles long and runs between Rockford and Freeport, passing through both rural and urban areas. Use the trail as an opportunity to take an adventure between towns on bike or stroll the trail by foot and enjoy the scenery.
5. Volunteer in the Community
Any season is a good time to give back to your community, and summer is no exception. An easy way to help people in your community is by talking to friends and neighbors and finding out activities you can help with – consider mowing the lawn for an elderly neighbor or volunteer to help with a community garden. Additionally, you can help out at a church or nonprofit organization in your community. Rockford Rescue Mission, the Rockford Salvation Army, and United Way are great places to get started with your volunteering efforts.
—
At Illinois Lending, we also enjoy giving back to the community and helping others by providing loans that have no hidden fees, low interest rates, and are widely available. Illinois Lending Corp. is here to help you. If you want to learn more, explore the loans we offer and apply for one today.