Ethnic Heritage Museum: A Cultural Tapestry of Rockford
Explore Rockford's diverse roots at the Ethnic Heritage Museum, celebrating the heritage of its primary immigrant groups in a historic 1850s home.
The Ethnic Heritage Museum in Rockford, Illinois, is a cultural gem housed in an 1850s home. It showcases the diverse heritage of six primary immigrant groups—African American, Hispanic, Irish, Italian, Lithuanian, and Polish—who shaped the region. Through artifacts, maps, and stories, visitors explore their unique traditions and contributions to Rockford's history.
A brief summary to Ethnic Heritage Museum
- 1129 S Main St, Rockford, Illinois, 61101, US
- +1815-962-7402
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit on a Sunday between 2-4 PM for a docent-guided tour of the Ethnic Heritage Museum and the Graham-Ginestra House.
- Call ahead to schedule a private tour or weekday visit if you cannot visit on Sunday.
- Check the museum's website or call to confirm current exhibits and admission fees before your visit.
- Parking is available in the lot at the corner of South Main and Morgan Streets, or street parking on Loomis Street.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the Rockford City Market area, head south on N Water St toward State St. Continue onto S Water St which will become S Main St after crossing State St. Walk straight for about 0.7 miles until you reach 1129 S Main St. The Ethnic Heritage Museum will be on your left.
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Public Transport
From the Rockford Public Library, take the Rockford Mass Transit District Route 7 bus towards the South Main St. Stop at the intersection of S Main St and 12th Ave. Walk south on S Main St for about 0.2 miles, and the Ethnic Heritage Museum will be on your right at 1129 S Main St. RMTD offers a mobile app for contactless fare payment. Students in grades K-9 can ride for free, and grades 9-12 can ride free with a school ID. Otherwise, check the RMTD website for current fares.
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Parking
Parking is available in the parking lot at the corner of South Main and Morgan Streets. Street parking is also available on Loomis Street. Several parking garages are located in downtown Rockford, including the Wyman Garage (211 Elm St) and Metro Garage (301 W State St), with rates around $9. You can use the Park Rockford app to find and pay for parking.
Discover more about Ethnic Heritage Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Graham-Ginestra House
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