Tell the family to pack up the car, we're going on a trip, uh, right here in town.

You don't have to go too far to visit one of the 10 Most Beautiful Fall Destinations in Illinois according to Only In Your State.

That's because it's right here in our very own backyard, and you know what? I couldn't agree more.

Anderson Japanese Gardens is actually beautiful anytime, but an autumn visit is really a sight to see.

Rob Carroll, Townsquare Media
Rob Carroll, Townsquare Media
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I have met lifelong residents that have never been to Anderson Japanese Gardens. Not sure why some have never made the trip because it's gorgeous and totally breathtaking. There's a whole host of other positive adjectives I can use to describe Anderson Japanese Gardens too.

Anderson Japanese Gardens is a not-to-be-missed fall destination...This is a place to visit over and over, but the singular reds and oranges that Japanese maples take on in the fall make a trip absolutely essential come autumn.

Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park also made Only In Your State's list. Both are not too far from Rockford but why travel far when you can get your "Fall beautiful destination" fix right here in Rockford?

Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Sweet Lenny is the brand manager of 97ZOK, Q98.5, and Operations Manager for Townsquare Media Rockford. Catch him afternoons 3 to 7 on 97ZOK. Follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and like his page on Facebook.

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