Many years ago, we stumbled upon Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, Illinois … and every time I return, I feel the same peace I felt that very first time. The gardens were established in 1978 by John R. Anderson and landscape architect Hoichi Kurisu on the site of Anderson's home. They were inspired by Anderson's trips to Japan, and particularly his visit to the Portland Japanese Garden in Washington Park, Portland, Oregon, which were also designed by Kurisu (we visited that garden last year).
I love sitting by the Waterfalls at the back of the Gardens.
I was at such a state of peace, I realized I only took a couple of photographs … everything was so green.
After enjoying the gardens, we napped for a bit and then enjoyed an early supper at Prairie Street Brewing. It was in a fabulous old brick building that housed the original brewery in 1849.
We got up early today & had breakfast at Lydia's Cafe where we tried some Swedish Pancakes with Lingenberry Sauce.
Our next stop was the Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens. It was under construction the last time we visited Rockford, so it was fun to see it open and thriving. The first thing I fell in love with was the amazing Terrazzo Floors in the atrium … it incorporated sea glass, sea shells, fossils … so cool.
The green house was filled with an assortment of orchids.
There was some fun art too.
Next we headed outside to the Sinnissippi Rose Gardens … what a gorgeous space for a walk. The air was sweet with the rose scents … this area reminded me of the Rose Gardens in Portland as well.
And one of my favorite gardens was in front of the center … I had never seen a flower bed filled entirely with oranges.
If you're ever in the area, Rockford is a great spot to spend a day.