Season Opener for Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, Illinois

Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, Illinois is opening this Friday, (4/21), and they have a major milestone to celebrate with us this season!

Who Says There's Nothing to Do in Rockford, Illinois?

Living in Rockford sometimes requires having thick skin, and by that I mean, being willing to shake off a lot of smack talk people say about our city.

If you've lived here in the Rockford area for at least a year, I am sure you've already heard many comments that include statements like;

"Crime is horrible in Rockford"

"There's nothing fun to do in Rockford"

I'm not gonna lie, crime is an issue for the Stateline, but nothing gets under my skin faster than hearing the completely FALSE words, "There's nothing to do in Rockford".

Rockford is FULL of cool things to see, do, and enjoy for people of all ages, and one of the things that always ranks high on the list is Anderson Japanese Gardens.

Credit: Rob Carroll, Townsquare Media

Anderson Japanese Gardens Is One of Illinois' Best Attractions

Whenever a new survey comes about the best attractions in Illinois, it usually includes Rockford's Anderson Japanese Gardens as one of the best. If you've never gone and strolled through the garden before, you owe it to yourself to do that ASAP!

The authentic Japanese design throughout the grounds, the gorgeous plants and flowers around every turn, the massive koi pond, and the overall relaxing atmosphere is what made me fall in love with Anderson Japanese Gardens, AND we get to spend another season soaking in all the beauty starting this Friday! (4/21/23)

2023 Marks a Major Milestone for Anderson Japanese Gardens

For those that may not know, Anderson Japanese Gardens is a not-for-profit organization, and 2023 marks its 25th year of serving this community as a public garden and tourist destination.

To celebrate its 25th anniversary, Anderson Japanese Gardens has a TON of family fun events on the books for us to enjoy. These events include live music at "Tuesday Evenings In The Garden" and the popular Garden Explorers series for kids.

The third Thursday of every month this season (May - October) will also be "Donation Day" at the Gardens. On these days there will be no admission charge for visitors, BUT donations are encouraged and appreciated. (Again, it is a not-for-profit that depends on community donations to stay open).

To see the full list of things happening at the Gardens this summer, please visit andersongardens.org.