25 Things We Love Most About Rockford

At Black & Jones, we’re proud to call Rockford home. For more than two decades, we've been honored to stand alongside the hardworking people who keep this community strong. From its rich history to its strong sense of community, here are 25 reasons we love being part of this incredible city.

1. Live Entertainment: From concerts at the BMO Harris Bank Center to shows at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, Rockford offers entertainment for all ages and interests.

2. First Responders: We deeply appreciate the dedication and sacrifice of the first responders who work tirelessly to keep our community safe, strong and supported.

3. Diverse Voices: From lifelong residents to enthusiastic youth, Rockford is filled with educators, leaders, innovators and contributors who bring wisdom and new ideas to the table to make Rockford a unique and wonderful place to live.

4. The Workers: Without the workers who build, create and shape our city, Rockford wouldn’t be the strong, vibrant community we’re proud to call home.

5. The Food: Rockford is an eclectic mix of delicious food. With many long-standing institutions like Lino’s, JMP Nippon, Beef-A-Roo and Stockholm Inn to rising stars like Woodfire Pizza and Cantina Taco, Rockford has something for every palate.

6. Iconic Attractions: As the official “Home of the Sock Monkey,” Rockford is known throughout the world for its early industrial success with the red-heeled sock monkey.

7. The Athletics: Rockford encourages the joy of sports at all levels—from its support of youth athletic programs to high school sports to the Rockford Rivets and IceHogs.

8. Natural Beauty: Enjoy the exotic blooms and cascading waterfalls at Anderson Japanese Gardens or the stunning indoor greenhouse at Nicholas Conservatory and Sinnissippi Gardens—Rockford is rich in natural beauty.

9. The History: Learn from the past at Midway Village Museum or visit Jane the Dinosaur at the Burpee Museum of Natural History. We are lucky to live in a city rich in history and attractions.

10. Parks & Recreation: Known as the “Forest City” for its commitment to green spaces, Klehm Arboretum and Rock Cut State Park provide opportunities for outdoor activities and scenic strolls.

11. Unique Architecture: From the famed Frank Lloyd Wright’s Laurent House to the revitalization of downtown Rockford, the city values its architectural history while modernizing for the future.

12. The Rock River: Bike or walk the riverside paths or enjoy a boat ride on a warm summer day—the iconic Rock River offers endless adventure.

13. Educational Opportunities: From Rockford University to Rock Valley College, our city offers tremendous opportunities to learn and explore a variety of career paths.

14. Event Spaces: Davis Park and Rockford City Market offer residents endless opportunities to explore and delight in food, music and community.

15. The Industry: Once known as the “Screw Capital of the World,” Rockford has a strong history in manufacturing, particularly in the automotive, aerospace and healthcare industries that continues to this day.

16. Central Location: Located in the heart of the Midwest, Rockford is a central hub of industry and business—featuring the Chicago Rockford International Airport and bus service to other metropolitan areas.

17. The 4 Seasons: Another perk of living in the Midwest is the opportunity to enjoy the four seasons. Whether sledding down snow hills at Twin Sisters Park, apple picking at Edward’s Apple Orchard or sliding down a water slide at Hurricane Harbor, there is something for everyone to enjoy—in every season.

18. The Culture: Rooted in a rich history of immigration, Rockford is committed to diversifying its economy with a commitment to revitalization, preserving outdoor spaces and fostering growth for local businesses.

19. Interactive Learning: A destination for growth–Discovery Center Museum features hands-on fun and exploration for young minds, while the Rockford Art Museum hosts regional and national exhibitions.

20. Vibrant Downtown: Rockford’s revitalized downtown is bustling with unique shops, lively restaurants and entertainment spaces—perfect for exploring all this great city has to offer.

21. The Rockford Peaches: Made famous by the movie, “A League of Their Own,” we love to claim the real-life Rockford Peaches as our own piece of history.

22. Musical Heritage: Music is woven into the soul of the Rockford community. We are proud to be the home of notable performers like Cheap Trick and the Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps, as well as the renowned Rockford Symphony Orchestra.

23. The Symbol: This iconic sculpture, set along the banks of the Rock River, welcomes you to the Rockford area while paying homage to the city’s heritage of industrial metal-bending factories.

24. The Community: With many Rockford natives continuing to work and raise their families here in this amazing city, Rockfordians maintain a strong sense of community, look out for one another and contribute to the greater good of the city.

25. Supporting You: For 25 years, the team at Black & Jones has advocated for the rights of injured workers right here in the Rockford community.

With a focus on workers’ compensation, Social Security Disability, personal injury, Veterans’ Compensation and Police and Fire Disability Pension Claims, we look forward to continuing to serve this great community for many years to come.