Take a Look: Remember when Rockford Looked Like in 1999?

Imagine for a moment, jumping into a time machine and dialing it back to 1999, then once you are there, back in time, getting in a vehicle and driving around, what would you see that is no longer around in 2024 or would you party like it's 1999?

Besides looking in the rearview mirror and seeing you, 25 years younger, you would pass by, Hilander Grocery Stores, The Ponderosa Steak House, and even have an adult beverage at State Street Station. So let's go back in time, for a relaxing drive, around Rockford and the year, 1999.

Driving around Rockford in 1999 was a mix of bustling culture.

Rockford, Illinois, in 1999 was a mix of bustling local culture and Midwest charm, with the city at a point of growth and nostalgia. Rockford was in the midst of a transition; new developments were cropping up, yet remnants of an industrial past were still visible. You’d cruise down State Street and find a blend of mom-and-pop shops, aging theaters, and the distinct Midwest feel of diners and small businesses.

One of the main attractions was CherryVale Mall, the local hub for shopping, socializing, and weekend hangouts. With anchor stores like Sears, Marshall Field’s, and JCPenney, it was a prime destination. Nearby, Forest Hills Road and East State Street were lined with car dealerships, fast-food chains, and family-owned restaurants that attracted locals looking for affordable bites or a coffee break. The area around State Street was starting to see new chain restaurants pop up, bringing in a blend of old and new dining experiences.

Heading toward downtown, you’d encounter a variety of iconic structures.

The Coronado Performing Arts Center, an atmospheric theater dating back to the 1920s, stood proudly and would soon undergo significant renovations to preserve its historic charm. The Rock River, slicing through the city, was a peaceful spot for a drive along the water, and Sinnissippi Park offered scenic views, particularly popular in the fall when the leaves changed color.

TAKE A TRIP BACK TO 1975, WHEELS ROCKIN' ROLLER RINK

Get our free mobile app

Meanwhile, places like the On the Waterfront Festival, which took over downtown every summer, drew people from all over for music, food, and fun. Although Rockford was feeling the impact of industrial shifts, it maintained a sense of community and tradition. Locals knew each other, and a sense of Midwestern hospitality permeated the city.