Anderson Japanese Gardens

If you think that you'll have to come up with some big bucks to enjoy a vacation in some far-flung exotic spot, you're probably right. However, you can save those dollars with an Illinois-based "stay-cation," because we've got lots of things to see and do right here without breaking your budget (although, to be honest, Illinois has some really pricey things, too).

Mention any of these places or experiences to someone who grew up in Rockford and you'll immediately know where they are from.

The late appearance of Fall colors this year means we get two more weekends to enjoy the beauty of the gardens at Anderson Japanese Gardens.

A stop to Anderson Japanese Gardens is always on my family's Fall bucket list, and now I have a mission for this year's annual stop: to take an amazing photo that captures the essence of Fall in the gardens.

The new restaurant inside Anderson Japanese Gardens, Fresco at the Gardens, opened this Monday. If you're looking for a job this summer they're still hiring.