As residents of Illinois know, the state can get pummeled with harsh weather, especially in the winter. After living through harsh months of freezing temperatures, nasty, wet winds, and the sun going down before 5 p.m., it’s important to take advantage of nice weather when it finally presents itself. Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, Illinois, is a perfect option for enjoying the time that the climate allows you to be comfortable while outside.

The Anderson Japanese Garden was very carefully designed according to specific aesthetic principles to inspire calm, renewal, and discovery. This property is located in Rockford, Illinois, about a 90-minute drive northwest of Chicago.
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Rockford businessman John Anderson broke ground on the gardens with designer Hoichi Kurisu in 1978. Anderson, along with his wife Linda, donated the gardens in 1998 and it now exists as a not-for-profit entity.
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Visitors are welcome seven days a week and if interested are welcome to purchase a private guided tour. There is also a restaurant that offers indoor and outdoor breakfast and lunch service.
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The gardens offer a concert series throughout the summer months. Guests are welcome to sit on the grass and enjoy music from both local and nationally touring artists.
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Though Illinois winters can often be harsh, the gardens are open year-round. So if you catch a rare sunny day in January, the sights of the snow-covered trees can be quite breathtaking.
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In order to maintain such a pristine space, guests are asked not to litter, smoke, or run while on the grounds. Additionally, pets are not allowed entry.
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Be sure to visit the Anderson Japanese Gardens website for current rates and hours for this lovely oasis in Illinois. If you’ve ever been there yourself, we would love to hear about your experience in the comments below.

These gardens are just one of many peaceful places to visit in the Prairie State — here are a few of our favorite scenic and serene hikes in Illinois!

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318 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford, IL 61107, USA