Churchill Grove - Rockford, IL

This neighborhood, settled in 1829, is one of the oldest in Rockford. During the Civil War, the area was used as a training camp for Union soldiers. The barracks are no longer there, but the original hospital has been preserved as a historic site. After the war, this neighborhood became the home of the most prominent families in Rockford.

Life moves at a slower pace here than in the major cities, but that doesn't mean you'll lack things to do. Cultural centers provide family entertainment all year long. The Klehm Arboretum sponsors seasonal events on its 155-acre grounds, and remains of the most impressive natural sites in the area. During the Winter Bird Walk, visitors are guided along the trails and taught to recognize the calls of local birds. The arboretum makes a special effort to accommodate every visitor, with handicapped-accessible paths and dog-friendly policies.

If the outdoors isn't your cup of tea, the Artists' Ensemble Theater performs five times a year at the Clark Arts Center of Rockford University. From classics like Oscar Wilde to modern theatrical offerings, the Artists' Ensemble is sure to entertain.

Because it's so close to downtown, Churchill Grove never makes you wait to satisfy your cravings. You will never feel like chain restaurants are your only option, and whether you have a taste for pasta or tapas, you'll find it nearby.

If you're looking for cocktails that are also works of art, Social Urban Bar and Restaurant is a place you must experience. Unusual concoctions featuring absinthe, like the Corpse Reviver, are the bar's specialty, but they have a great selection of beers and wines for the less adventurous. Everyone enjoys the variety of small plates, because the dishes are too tempting to choose just one. The pork belly tacos are a local favorite for their perfectly crisp texture and blend of spices that's hot, but not overwhelming. If you're new in town, the communal tables and casual atmosphere will have you meeting your neighbors in no time.

When you need Oktoberfest and it's not October, there is only one place to go in Churchill Grove. Der Rathskeller has provided residents with German beer, food and music since the 1930s. Sausages and sauerkraut are made in-house, but the Lyonnaise Potatoes steal the show. Perfectly browned and not too salty, this potato and onion dish is the right accompaniment for every meal. When the weather permits, relax in the beer garden with the five beer sampler, and discover a new favorite German beer.

After dinner, make your way to Kryptonite for drinks. The extensive beer list caters to the true enthusiast, and offers a number of hard-to-find brews. But don't assume that this is just another ordinary bar. Kryptonite has a full calendar of events, including games, live music and stand-up comedy. Movie night draws the biggest crowd, with costumes, themed drinks and movie trivia.

As is the case in most small cities, cars are a necessity. Fortunately, parking is plentiful and usually free.

Although there are no dedicated bike lanes, cycling is popular in the area, and the moderate traffic makes it possible for cyclists to travel safely.

Taxis can be found downtown or called when necessary.

The Rockford Mass Transit District maintains a small bus line, which stops at several hospitals and other important locations. Extra bus stops are added during community events, making participation easy for residents.

The nearest airport is the Chicago Rockford International Airport, and the fact that it's international means there is no need to drive all the way to Chicago when it's time for a vacation. This airport is focused on customer service, with free curbside baggage service and free parking.

Carefully maintained parks are a hallmark of this community. The park district oversees hundreds of playgrounds, nature preserves and other public spaces, including a renovated and expanded skateboard park and several fully fenced dog parks specifically designed for off-leash play.

Along the banks of the Rock River, you will find the Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens. Paths wind past the Conservatory, through the Eclipse Lagoon, around the Sinnissippi Rose Garden and down to the river's edge. No matter what the weather, visitors can experience the beauty of nature. Escape from winter's chill inside the tropical jungle of the Conservatory, or ice skate on the frozen lagoon.

For the more practical sorts, Churchill Grove provides a large community garden where residents grow vegetables for both themselves and local food pantries. Gardens have the wonderful ability to create more than just food, and this one is no exception. The Churchill Grove Community Garden creates a beautiful spot for picnics and is the chosen location for the annual neighborhood celebration. Volunteer for watering or weeding duties--you'll bring beauty to the community and help those in need.

Churchill Grove is famous for its historic homes, but in this case, historic doesn't mean expensive. Rent is low for both apartments and single-family homes. A one-bedroom apartment will typically be priced at around $600 a month. The cost of living is quite low, especially when compared with larger neighboring cities. It is, in fact, almost 13 percent lower than most of Illinois.

Shopping for groceries and household needs is simple in Churchill Grove, with a Schnucks everywhere you turn, and conveniently located big box stores close-by. The area even caters to picky appetites and clothing tastes with smaller shops and boutiques.

If you have special dietary needs (such as a gluten-free diet), Woodman's Markets offers products and produce to meet your needs. The organic and specialty food selections, as well as the carside grocery delivery, make Woodman's a local favorite.

For the freshest food around, stop by the Rockford City Market, which runs from May through October. Every Friday, this market gathers the area's local farmers and artisans in one place to provide residents with the widest variety of fruits, vegetables, baked goods and natural products. Stick around after the market closes, and watch a family-friendly movie in the park.

When it comes to boutique shopping, this area takes the prize with shops that offer more than simple shopping. Check out Rockford Art Deli, where you can purchase screen-printed clothing and artwork, attend gallery showings for local artists and take screen printing classes.

Another store with more is Petals & Pickin's, offering professionally designed flower arrangements for someone special, sign up for a ladies' night workshop or host a child's birthday party.