Rockford Armory: A Historic Landmark
Explore Rockford Armory: A historic Art Deco landmark, former National Guard headquarters, and legendary music venue, now being transformed into a cultural hub.
The Rockford Armory, located at 605 N Main St, Rockford, IL, is a historic Art Deco building that served as the headquarters for the Illinois National Guard for nearly 60 years. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2000, it also functioned as a popular music venue in the 1970s, hosting iconic bands like ZZ Top, KISS, and Fleetwood Mac. Today, the Rockford Area Arts Council is working to transform it into a vibrant cultural hub.
A brief summary to Rockford Armory
- 605 N Main St, Rockford, Illinois, 61103, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the Rockford Area Arts Council's website for updates on the redevelopment project and future events.
- Take photos of the building's exterior to capture its unique Art Deco architectural details.
- Explore downtown Rockford and visit nearby attractions such as the BMO Center and the Coronado Performing Arts Center.
Getting There
-
Walking
The Rockford Armory is located at 605 N Main St in Rockford. From the intersection of State and Main, walk north on Main Street for approximately 0.3 miles. The Armory will be on your left. Sidewalks are available along Main Street.
-
Public Transport
The Rockford Mass Transit District (RMTD) provides bus service to the Rockford area. Several bus routes serve the North Main Street area. Check the RMTD website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride ticket costs $1. The Downtown Transfer Center, located at 501 West State Street, is the primary hub for RMTD.
-
Driving
The Rockford Armory is located at 605 N Main St, Rockford, IL. From I-90, take the East State Street exit (East Business U.S. 20) and follow it for 7 miles into downtown Rockford. Turn right onto Church Street, then turn left onto Park Ave, and then turn left again onto N Main Street. The Armory will be on the right. Parking is available in nearby garages and parking lots. Hourly parking rates in downtown Rockford range from $7 to $17.
Discover more about Rockford Armory
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rockford Armory
0.0 km
Explore Rockford Armory: A historic Art Deco landmark, former National Guard headquarters, and legendary music venue, now being transformed into a cultural hub.
Beattie Park
0.2 km
Explore ancient Native American mounds in a peaceful downtown Rockford park, offering scenic trails and a glimpse into local history.
Rockford Theatre
0.3 km
Experience live performances and community events at the heart of Rockford's vibrant performing arts scene.
Coronado Performing Arts Center
0.3 km
Experience the opulent grandeur of a bygone era at Rockford's Coronado Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored 1927 atmospheric theater.
Prairie Street Brewing Co.
0.4 km
Experience craft beer and riverside dining in a historic Rockford brewery, complete with live music and stunning views.
Lucerne's Fondue & Spirits
0.4 km
Experience fondue in a charming Victorian setting at Lucerne's Fondue & Spirits, Rockford, IL. Perfect for intimate dinners and special occasions.
Riverview Ice House
0.4 km
Skate into fun at Riverview Ice House! Downtown Rockford's premier ice skating destination for all ages and skill levels.
Veterans Memorial Hall
0.4 km
Honoring Winnebago County's veterans since 1903 with exhibits spanning from the Civil War to today. A living tribute to service and sacrifice.
Rockford Morning Star Building
0.5 km
Explore the Rockford Morning Star Building, a historic landmark that embodies the rich journalistic heritage and architectural beauty of downtown Rockford, Illinois.
Verdi Club
0.5 km
A historic Italian-American club in Rockford offering banquet facilities, a lively bar, and community events with Rock River views.
Lafayette Hotel
0.5 km
Discover the Lafayette Hotel in Rockford, IL: Your perfect venue for events, comfort, and exploring local attractions.
J. R. Kortman Center for Design
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and art at J. R. Kortman Center for Design in downtown Rockford, a cultural gem since 1986. Rotating exhibitions and curated collections.
Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
0.6 km
Your gateway to exploring Rockford, IL: attractions, events, accommodations, and visitor information for an unforgettable experience in the Forest City.
Rockford Map
0.6 km
Explore Rockford, Illinois, with the comprehensive mapping services of the Rockford Map, your guide to the city's rich culture and attractions.
Chick House
0.7 km
Explore the historic Chick House in Rockford, IL: a landmark blending Greek Revival & Italianate architecture, dating back to 1857.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rockford Art Museum
0.2 km
Explore diverse exhibitions at the Rockford Art Museum, a cultural gem in Illinois showcasing American art from the 20th and 21st centuries.
Riverfront Museum Park
0.2 km
Discover the artistic and cultural treasures at Riverfront Museum Park, a vibrant destination for families and art lovers in Rockford, Illinois.
Burpee Museum of Natural History
0.2 km
Explore the fascinating world of natural history at the Burpee Museum, where dinosaurs and ancient artifacts come to life in Rockford, Illinois.
Davis Park at Founders Landing
1.0 km
Explore the beauty of Davis Park at Founders Landing, a vibrant urban park in Rockford, Illinois, perfect for relaxation, recreation, and community events.
Erlander Home Museum
1.3 km
Explore the Erlander Home Museum and uncover the rich Swedish heritage of Rockford, Illinois, through its authentic exhibits and immersive history.
Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum and Gardens
1.7 km
Explore Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum and Gardens, a historical gem in Rockford, Illinois, where rich history meets beautiful gardens.
Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens
1.8 km
Discover the lush beauty of Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens in Rockford, your serene escape into nature with stunning plant displays and tranquil gardens.
Ethnic Heritage Museum
1.9 km
Explore the Ethnic Heritage Museum in Rockford, IL, where diverse cultures and histories come to life through engaging exhibits and community stories.
Sinnissippi Gardens
2.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sinnissippi Gardens, a serene park in Rockford, Illinois, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and scenic views of nature.
Sinnissippi Park
2.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Sinnissippi Park, Rockford's urban oasis, featuring lush landscapes, vibrant gardens, and recreational activities for everyone.
Anderson Japanese Gardens
3.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Anderson Japanese Gardens, a tranquil oasis in Rockford, Illinois, featuring stunning landscapes and traditional Japanese architecture.
Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden
4.0 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse plant collections at Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden in Rockford, Illinois, a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
La Paloma Gardens
5.0 km
Explore La Paloma Gardens, a tranquil oasis in Rockford, Illinois, where vibrant flora and serene landscapes create the perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts.
Alpine Hills Adventure Park
5.2 km
Experience the thrill of outdoor adventure at Alpine Hills Adventure Park in Rockford, Illinois, where excitement and nature come together for an unforgettable day.
Frank Lloyd Wright's Laurent House
6.0 km
Explore Frank Lloyd Wright's Laurent House, a stunning architectural gem showcasing organic design in Rockford, Illinois, perfect for architecture enthusiasts.
Essential places to dine
27 ALUNA
0.5 km
Discover exquisite dining at 27 ALUNA in downtown Rockford - where innovative cuisine meets vibrant cocktails.
District Bar and Grill
0.6 km
Discover Rockford's vibrant nightlife at District Bar and Grill – where delicious food meets live music in an inviting atmosphere.
Magpie
0.7 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Magpie in Rockford - your go-to brunch spot for fresh flavors and cozy ambiance.
LimaMar Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
0.8 km
Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at LimaMar Restaurant & Cocktail Bar in Rockford—where culinary tradition meets modern flair.
Omakase
0.8 km
Discover Rockford's finest sushi experience at Omakase - where culinary artistry meets exceptional flavors.
Woodfire Rockford
0.9 km
Experience the taste of Italy at Woodfire Rockford - renowned for its authentic wood-fired pizzas and inviting atmosphere.
Sisters Thai Cafe
1.0 km
Experience the best of authentic Thai cuisine at Sisters Thai Cafe in Rockford - where every dish tells a story of flavor.
Social Urban Bar & Restaurant
1.0 km
Discover fine dining at Social Urban Bar & Restaurant in Rockford - where exquisite American cuisine meets vibrant urban ambiance.
The Top Rooftop Bar & Lounge
1.1 km
Discover unforgettable rooftop views and exquisite dining at The Top Rooftop Bar & Lounge in Rockford, Illinois.
Tower Kitchen & Bar
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Rockford at Tower Kitchen & Bar - where American cuisine meets a lively bar atmosphere.
Chuc-a-Luc's Fish Market Grill & Soul Food
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of soul food and fresh seafood at Chuc-a-Luc's Fish Market Grill & Soul Food in Rockford.
Lydia's Cafe
1.9 km
Discover Lydia's Cafe in Rockford: A delightful fusion of American and Mexican cuisine awaits you at this charming eatery.
Behr Den Restaurant
2.3 km
Discover delicious local flavors at Behr Den Restaurant in Rockford – where cozy meets affordable dining!
The Olympic Tavern
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at The Olympic Tavern in Rockford - where great food meets great company.
DiTullio's Italian Market & Cafe
2.7 km
Discover the taste of Italy at DiTullio's Italian Market & Cafe in Rockford – where authentic cuisine meets vibrant market charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Downtown Shoes & Boutique
0.5 km
Discover unique footwear and chic clothing at Downtown Shoes & Boutique in Rockford, Illinois - your trendy shopping destination awaits!
Cleo's Aroma Pothecary
0.7 km
Explore Cleo's Aroma Pothecary in Rockford, IL for unique metaphysical supplies, gifts, and a serene shopping experience.
Smiley's Vintage
0.7 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Smiley's Vintage in Rockford, Illinois - a unique destination for eclectic finds and timeless treasures.
Smith & Sons
0.7 km
Explore a captivating array of vintage treasures at Smith & Sons Antique Store in Rockford, Illinois, where history meets charm and nostalgia.
Weirdo Art Collectibles
0.8 km
Explore Weirdo Art Collectibles, a unique gift shop in Rockford, IL, brimming with quirky art and one-of-a-kind treasures to enhance your travel experience.
Remade
0.8 km
Explore Remade in Rockford, a unique home goods store offering eclectic decor and artisanal treasures that capture the spirit of local craftsmanship.
S'mores Collectibles and Vintage
0.8 km
Explore S'mores Collectibles and Vintage in Rockford, IL for a unique shopping experience filled with rare finds and nostalgic treasures.
Inscape Collective
1.4 km
Explore Inscape Collective in Rockford, IL for unique gifts and handcrafted items that embody local artistry and creativity.
Rooted
1.5 km
Explore Rooted, Rockford's charming gift shop featuring local art, unique home goods, and thoughtful gifts that celebrate community creativity.
29 Palms-The Collector's Oasis LLC
1.7 km
Explore 29 Palms - The Collector's Oasis LLC in Rockford, Illinois, for an exciting selection of unique collectibles and vintage treasures.
Resale
1.7 km
Uncover unique antique furniture pieces and vintage treasures in Rockford, Illinois, perfect for enhancing your home and creating lasting memories.
Tiffany's Luscious Boutique
1.9 km
Explore unique women's fashion at Tiffany's Luscious Boutique in Rockford, where style meets personalized service for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Minglewood
2.8 km
Explore Minglewood, Rockford's charming boutique offering unique fashion finds and personalized shopping experiences for every style.
Anderson Gardens Gift Shop
3.0 km
Explore the Anderson Gardens Gift Shop for unique gifts and treasures inspired by nature, reflecting the beauty of Rockford's serene Japanese gardens.
Culture Shock Records - Gifts - Clothing
3.0 km
Explore Culture Shock Records in Rockford, IL – a vibrant gift shop and boutique featuring unique gifts, trendy clothing, and a wide selection of vinyl records.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mary's Place
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Rockford at Mary's Place, a cozy bar offering craft drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.
CJs Public House
0.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at CJs Public House, Rockford's premier lounge and cocktail bar.
Minnihan's
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Minnihan's, a lively bar in Downtown Rockford offering a diverse drink menu and a welcoming atmosphere.
Wood & Brick Tavern
0.9 km
Experience the rustic charm and vibrant atmosphere at Wood & Brick Tavern in Rockford, Illinois, the perfect spot for drinks and local flavor.
The Oasis Micro-Pub
1.2 km
Experience the essence of Rockford nightlife at The Oasis Micro-Pub, where craft beers and community vibes come together.
Rural on Tap
1.9 km
Discover the charm of Rural on Tap in Rockford, Illinois—your destination for great drinks and warm hospitality in a lively bar atmosphere.
Railroad Tap
2.3 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Railroad Tap, Rockford's beloved bar offering local brews, live music, and a warm community vibe.
2 Wheel Inn
3.4 km
Discover the lively ambiance and affordable drinks at 2 Wheel Inn, a must-visit bar in Rockford, Illinois, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
On State Bar & Restaurant
4.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious comfort food at On State Bar & Restaurant, a must-visit for tourists in Rockford, Illinois.
The Victory Tap
4.9 km
Experience Rockford's local culture at The Victory Tap, where friendly faces and affordable drinks create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and fun.
8th Ward Pub
5.4 km
Discover the 8th Ward Pub in Rockford, Illinois, where vibrant cocktails and delicious tapas create the perfect setting for unforgettable gatherings.
Stumpy's Pub
8.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious flavors at Stumpy's Pub, the go-to spot for craft beer and casual dining in Rockford, Illinois.
Applebee's Grill + Bar
8.9 km
Experience the heart of American cuisine at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Rockford, where delicious meals and a family-friendly atmosphere await.
The Filling Station
9.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of sports and karaoke at The Filling Station, Rockford's lively destination for food, drinks, and entertainment.
nmt Drink
9.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of NMT Drink, a local bar in Rockford, IL, perfect for unwinding with great drinks and friendly vibes.
