RACVB: The Rockford Region has something for even the pickiest of travelers

Don’t miss these great events, attractions and summer deals!

ROCKFORD, IL — Running out of ways to keep the kids busy during their summer break? In need of a quality, no-hassle getaway? Get Outta Dodge and escape the summer bummers in the nearby Rockford Region, where you’re sure to find something to please even the pickiest of travelers. Check out these great attractions, events and summer deals to help get you started. For more on the great summer fun to be had in Rockford, visit summer.gorockford.com .

Family Fun

Families can measure summer fun by the gallon at CoCo Key Water Resort, Rockford’s premiere indoor water resort connected to the landmark Best Western Clock Tower Resort & Conference Center! CoCo Key features 65,000 square feet of splashable fun, with a tube ride through the water islands, three thrilling body- and raft-waterslides, Key Quest Arcade with more than 100 state-of-the-art games, Dip-In Theater, Parrot’s Perch Play Structure, Coral Reef Cavern, Callou Grill & Wet Rooster Bar, and more!

Families can also visit Jane, the world’s most complete juvenile T. rex, at Burpee Museum of Natural History, then head next-door to Discovery Center Museum, named the number four children’s museum in the nation by Child magazine and one of the top 10 children’s museum’s in the nation by National Geographic Society. Explore Rockford’s history at Midway Village Museum and spend a day splashing down the new Typhoon Terror adventure ride at Magic Waters Waterpark.

Don’t miss:

* August 12: Critter Club at Burpee Museum, 815.965.3433, http://www.burpee.org

* August 14: The Best of the Best Family Friday at Discovery Center Museum, 815.963.6769, http://www.discoverycentermuseum.org

Arts & Culture

The Rockford Region is teeming with arts and cultural experiences this summer! Find peace of mind on the tranquil paths at Anderson Japanese Gardens, voted the best Japanese garden in North America by Sukiya Living Magazine’s Journal of Japanese Gardens in 2008 and 2004. Visitors can also enjoy a view of the breathtaking gardens from the new Restaurant at Anderson Japanese Gardens inside the Visitors Center. Partake in Asian fusion cuisine in an upscale dining space and shop in the gift shop for unique items reminiscent of the Far East.

History buffs can enjoy a guided tour of Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens, a treasure trove of time gone-by. Built in 1868 by former Rockford Mayor and Rockford Park District founder, Robert H. Tinker, the Cottage is one of only a handful of Swiss-style homes from the 1800s remaining in the U.S. Today, the Cottage and Gardens are shared with guests of all ages who come to visit from as near as the surrounding Rockford community and as far away as Europe.

Travelers looking for a “heavy metal” kind of experience should check out Kegel Harley-Davidson/Buell, the world’s oldest family-owned Harley-Davidson dealership. This award-winning facility is a state-of-the-art venue offering one of the most extensive lines of new and used Harley and Buell motorcycles, riding apparel, parts and accessories, as well as an expert service department. Be sure to visit Kegel’s Harley Diner, open for breakfast and lunch 7 days a week. This motorcycle oasis offers delicious dishes like the Sturgis omelet, Biker Dude country steak, Throttle dog, Dip Stick cheese sticks and much more!

And don’t forget to save the date for this year’s On the Waterfront Festival, Illinois’ largest outdoor music festival, September 3-6! The kick-off on Thursday, September 3, features The Charlie Daniels Band, and headliners on The Great Lawn Stage include country star Jason Aldean on Friday, September 4, and multi-platinum band Barenaked Ladies on Saturday, September 5. Visit http://www.onthewaterfront.com for ticket information.

Don’t miss:

* August 15: Hot Bikes & Hot Rods Cruise-In Show at Kegel Harley-Davidson/Buell, 815.332.7125, http://www.kegelmotorcycles.com

* August 16: “Tinker with Music” Outdoor Summer Concert Series: The Bluegrass Reunion at Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens, 815.964.2424, http://www.tinkercottage.com

* September 3-6: On the Waterfront in downtown Rockford, http://www.onthewaterfront.com

Accommodations

Don’t try to cram all of this summer fun into one day! Instead of taking that drive or flight back home, sink into a cozy bed at a convenient, value-packed Rockford hotel. Rockford’s Courtyard by Marriott has gone through extensive renovations to provide guests an enjoyable experience that promises greater comfort and enhanced productivity. You’ll feel right at home with the relaxed comfort and outstanding service the Marriott brand is known for worldwide. Choose a spacious guest room featuring new, luxurious bedding for a good night’s rest. Visit summer.gorockford.com to download and print an exclusive online coupon to receive 10% off the regular room rate at the Courtyard by Marriott!Coupon must be presented at time of check-in. Offer valid 7 days a week, based on availability through September 7, 2009; discount does not apply for group room blocks.

The Best Western Clock Tower Resort & Conference Center, home of CoCo Key Water Resort, features 245 newly renovated guest rooms, 14 bi-level suites, three whirlpool suites, the SunDial Restaurant & Lounge, Starbucks, one indoor swimming pool with whirlpool & sauna, two outdoor swimming pools, and specialty boutique shops. Get a great deal with a Summeriginals Exclusive CoCo Key Water Resort Package for just $159! Receive overnight accommodations at the Best Western Clock Tower Resort for up to 4 guests, (4) CoCo Key Water Resort passes (valid for day of check-in and check-out), $20 restaurant credit at the Sun Dial Restaurant, (2) $10 arcade cards, (4) vouchers for CoCo Key Water Resort day passes for a future visit (must be used before 9/30/2009), and $20 off a future overnight stay (valid through 10/30/2009)! Call 815.398.6000 to book now. Must specify ”SUMMER” code when booking. Packages are based on availability thru September 7, 2009; black-out dates apply. This offer must be booked directly with the Clock Tower Resort and cannot be booked through Best Western Global Reservations. $20 voucher must be used on a future visit. All coupons and vouchers will be distributed upon check-in.

More Summeriginal Specials

Sensational Values Coupons: Visit summer.gorockford.com for links to download and print valuable coupons from the following Rockford Region sites and attractions: CoCo Key Water Resort, Courtyard by Marriott, Burpee Museum of Natural History, Discovery Center Museum, Kegel Harley-Davidson/Buell, Magic Waters Waterpark and Midway Village Museum. Unless otherwise noted, all coupons are valid until September 7, 2009.

Rockford, IL, is located approximately 60 minutes west of Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport off Interstate 90. For information on accommodations and things to do, visit http://www.gorockford.com. RACVB is a private, non-profit organization established in 1984 to champion efforts to promote the Rockford Region as an overnight visitor destination. The RACVB generates positive economic impact for our community through investments in tourism.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Mika Doyle, RACVB Communications Coordinator: 815.489.1678, mdoyle@gorockford.com