Take a Rise and Shine Historic Bike Tour of Downtown Rockford July 29th

If you're looking to get a little exercise and learn some things you didn't know about downtown Rockford, Rockford's River District has just the thing for you coming up Saturday, July 29th.

I'm looking at a note with some of the event's details from our friend Leah Tuneberg, Executive Director of Rockford's River District, in which she outlines the first of two Steve Zimmerman “Rise and Shine” Historic Bike Tours of downtown Rockford this year. The first event will take place on Saturday, July 29, from 8:00am – 10:00am and will begin behind City Hall, 425 E. State St.

Our historical bike tours have for many years drawn a crowd of people interested in riding through our beautiful river district while gaining a first-hand look at historic buildings. In 2015 we began the tradition of honoring Steve Zimmerman’s inspiration and legacy to see downtown from a different perspective. Steve was a leader in our community who lost his life on earth on April 30, 2015. During the 90-120 minute tour we will cruise through downtown Rockford to see stunning architecture and learn some history. Gary Anderson, well known Rockford architect, is knowledgeable of downtown historical buildings and development and will lead us on this tour. We encourage bike safety so please wear a helmet. Families are welcome and please know that we do ride on city streets, please keep your children safe.

Having taken a couple of the River District's walking tours in the past, I highly encourage you to sign up. One of the coolest things about the River District tours is that you get to learn about parts of our city that you've driven or walked by many times in the past, but had no idea of the stories behind them.

Saturday, July 29th, just meet up behind City Hall (425 East State Street) at or before 8am. The 90-120 minute event is free, but there is a suggested $5 free will offering.

Highlights of the tour include: