Neighborhood Guide: Rockford

Take a trip through time when visiting Rockford's historic downtown shopping district. The quaint town holds numerous unique shops and family-owned businesses. Residents have the option between malls, a downtown business district, and Squires Street as well as other recreational activities. The city is located in Kent County along the Rogue River and is a short drive from the great city of Grand Rapids.

Restaurants

The Corner Bar is home to Rockford Tradition. The restaurant has been offering its phenomenal chili dogs since opening its doors in 1935. To add some excitement to your meal, eat 12 chili dogs and become a part of the Hall of Fame among more

than 5000 others who were brave enough to take on the challenge. The Corner also serves hand-battered onion rings, pickles, mushrooms, hand-padded burgers, entree salads, sandwiches, and burritos. A popular pick is the Turkey Pretzel Club with Michigan-raised smoked turkey breast, bacon, and Swiss cheese served on a warm pretzel roll with our house-made honey Dijon sauce served up with house-made potato chips and a dill pickle spear. Aside from the tasty food menu, The Corner Bar also has 16 beers on tap featuring many local craft beers. This restaurant is a great spot to bring the family to any and every occasion.

Bostwick Lake Inn sits alongside the relaxing waters of Bostwick Lake on the outskirts of Rockford. “BLI” holds centuries of history and character within its folds. The deck, open all four seasons, is a popular spot for dining. In the warmer months, guests are able to enjoy a craft beer or cocktail on the beach.

The menu is filled with farm fresh fare with unique takes on traditional American cuisine while also offering numerous gluten-free menu items. Regulars at the restaurant recommend the Potato Chip Sweet Corn Crusted Walleye that is pan-seared & oven-roasted, topped with house remoulade, fresh lemon with a side of grilled asparagus and whipped Yukon potatoes and the Crispy Brussel Sprouts covered in a signature blood orange glaze. Bostwick Lake Inn allows guests to have a quick and tranquil escape with their dining experience. Although BLI is no longer accepting reservations, customers can call ahead for seating or use to get on the waitlist.

F’n K Tacos is an East Los Angeles-style taco shop serving up street-style tacos on fresh handmade corn tortillas in downtown Rockford. Co-owners and spouses Frank (the F) and Kaitlin (the K) have done a wonderful job bringing the west coast experience to West Michigan. The shop strives to offer the most

authentic street tacos, using fresh high-quality ingredients from local producers. Staple menu items include carne asada, pork barbacoa, chicken machaca, al pastor tacos, quesadillas, and fresh salsas, even offering vegetarian options. F’n K Tacors just opened its door in June of 2022 and already has created a huge fan base with residents traveling across town to taste the new taco spot.

Things to Do

The Rockford Area Museum reveals the story of how this now thriving city got its start as a logging community. Historic artifacts and video memories from those who reside in Rockford share aspects of local life. A notable part of the museum

collection is the original Medal of Honor awarded to John Sjogren, a Rockford native who was commended for his heroic action against the Japanese in 1945. The museum even features a statue of John Sjogren in the memorial plaza. Admission to the museum is free and is open Tuesday through Saturday.

Accidental Art is a pottery painting studio that is great for all ages. The studio allows for walk-ins during its regular hours but also offers regular classes for those as young as two years old.

For children, the “Once Upon a Paintbrush” classes include reading a favorite children's book together and then painting pottery that relates back to the story. This studio is a great spot for creative minds.

The Maas Family Nature Preserve shows off an oak-pine barren ecosystem, the rarest natural community in Michigan. In May and June, purple lupine blooms bring in visitors from all over the state with tall prairie grasses and wildflowers following in the

late summer. The preserve is also the only site in Kent County known to contain Karner blue butterflies, these tiny creatures are an endangered species and very rare. There is also a trail that runs through the preserve at only half a mile long allowing for a relaxing walk. Enjoy the outdoors in Rockford.