The River District Association (RDA) is proud to announce the return of its popular Walking and Bike Tours for the 2025 season. This year’s summer lineup offers four unique, immersive tours that highlight the history, architectural beauty and revitalization of Rockford’s core neighborhoods.

Donations are welcome. Participants are not required to sign-up in advance. The tour is guided by knowledgeable host, Gary Anderson, AIA, Studio GWA founder. Walks take about 80 minutes.

To view historic photos of each tour on your phone, download a free app from ridewithgps.com. A route with all the points of interest will then be able to be accessed.

West Side Historic District Tour #2
-Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025
-Time: 5:30 PM
-Location: Begins at Wyman & Mulberry (across from the library)
-Description: Journey through 170 years of change in the Main Street District. Get a sneak peek inside the renovation of the Lafayette Hotel and reflect on the evolution of downtown Rockford.
–Map of the walk: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/edit?mid=1h8gPO0r_oy2ZmjesiSLD4lSdgaVB1nU&usp=sharing

“The purpose of these tours is to inform, educate and create a greater appreciation for the craftsmanship of these historic structures that have withstood the test of time. By exploring the businesses that once occupied them and the changes they’ve undergone, we gain insight into our past to better understand the present and make more informed decisions for the future,” said Gary Anderson, AIA, Studio GWA founder.