Rockford

Just 15 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids, the city of Rockford brims with small-town charm and ambiance. A quaint downtown, situated on the banks of the scenic Rogue River, bustles with activity. Nearby lakes, trails, parks and golf courses provide abundant recreation opportunities. Friendly and family-oriented, picturesque and relaxing, Rockford is one of West Michigan’s premier destinations.

Where to Eat in Rockford

Eat your way onto the Hot Dog Hall of Fame at The Corner Bar, a Rockford tradition since 1935. Enjoy a spectacular meal with a spectacular view at Reds on the River. Have a hearty breakfast at Cedar Rock Café. Get a sweet treat at Custard by the Dam.

Where to Shop in Rockford

Start downtown, where the sidewalks are lined with unique shops and boutiques.

What to Do in Rockford

Travel the beautiful Rogue River by canoe, kayak or tube float – you can rent them all at AAA Canoe Rental.

Mountain bike the Merrell Trail, West Michigan’s only true flow trail, featuring fast descents, tabletop jumps, and elevated bridges and structures.

Walk or bike the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail as it runs through Rockford along the Rogue River – you can follow it all the way to Grand Rapids!

What to See in Rockford

See the Rogue River from the vantage point of the Rockford Dam Overlook – it’s ideal for picnicking and fishing.

See a movie at NorthStar Cinemas – great prices on first-run movies and concessions.

See a baseball or softball game at Art Van Sports Complex, a championship-caliber facility with eight fields (and counting!).

Local Rockford Favorites

Harvest Fest is three weekends of family fun – including games, parades, hayrides, a chili cook-off, car show and more – in September and October.

Rogue River Blues is a free outdoor concert series that runs every Tuesday evening from June to August.

North Kent Golf Course offers country-club amenities at public-course rates – the pristinely manicured 18-hole course includes an all-grass driving range and challenging practice putting green.

Rockford Hidden Gems

The Underground Bar is a stylish throwback to the prohibition-era speakeasy, serving cocktails made with premium spirits from Artesian Distillery, the Grand Rapids area’s first liquor distillery.

Rockford Footwear Depot is the retail outlet of Rockford’s very own Wolverine Worldwide, the shoe manufacturer whose brands include CAT, Harley Davidson Hush Puppies, Merrell, Saucony and Sebago.