Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden — Attraction in Rockford Township

I booked Klehm for my wedding ceremony and reception and had a great overall experience. I called 12 months from the wedding date and they only had one date left for the season we were wanting (and it was due to someone rescheduling), so I would make sure you call and view the venue early if you are interested. We booked the Fountain Garden (the main ceremony site, holds 300 people) for our ceremony and everything was beautiful. The grounds are open to the public and they do have other smaller (

This place is beautiful, no doubt about it. But sadly the people who run Klehm are purposely planting non native and invasive plants. The forest surrounding the park are full of Japanese honeysuckle, Japanese knotweed, common buckthorn, gallery pear and others. They purposely let invasive plants grow to make a screen around the whole park when they could just use native alternatives that would help screen the park from the surrounding subdivision as well as providing habitat for birds and other wildlife. How the Northern Illinois Botanical society allows this is beyond me and it’s almost a joke. The management is also Lacking and treats the grounds workers like disposable trash and underpays them as well. Large areas of the park have trees and shrubs that were planted purposefully only to be struggling and almost dying due to no upkeep and the surrounding forest of invasive plants consuming them. If you like plants and nature this is the place for you and if you are botanically inclined you will see the good and the bad. But...

🧛🎃👻🍁 Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden in Rockford, Illinois, offers a delightful natural retreat for visitors of all ages. The entrance is beautifully marked by a warm welcome sign of the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County, setting the tone for a peaceful and engaging visit. The gardens are well-organized, with clear maps that guide you to various attractions like the Fountain Garden, Children’s Garden, and an array of walking trails through serene woodlands.

Seasonal decorations, such as a charming Halloween-themed setup with pumpkins and lights, add a festive touch to the experience, making it a fun stop for families. One of the highlights during special events is the intricately carved pumpkins, which display impressive artistry, transforming simple gourds into works of art.

With its inviting pathways, lush greenery, and the perfect blend of nature and creativity, Klehm Arboretum is a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful, scenic getaway in the Rockford...