Why We’re Obsessed With Serial Killers

Posted on April 28, 2025April 29, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva Dream Lab

True crime has exploded in popularity. From podcasts to documentaries, our fascination with serial killers continues to grow. But why are we so obsessed? It all comes down to human curiosity.

The Psychology Behind Curiosity

Humans are naturally curious creatures. We are wired to seek answers, especially when something feels dangerous or unknown. Serial killers represent the darkest corners of human behavior. Thus, many of us feel an intense need to understand them.

Furthermore, fear plays a large role. Learning about violent individuals helps us feel more in control. By studying their actions, we believe we can spot danger and protect ourselves.

Serial Killers Are Rare

Despite their heavy media presence, serial killers are extremely rare. This rarity makes them even more fascinating. People tend to obsess over things they don’t encounter every day.

Moreover, the shocking contrast between the killer’s outward appearance and their crimes draws us in. Many serial killers blend in, living normal lives. This contradiction fuels both fear and curiosity.

The Thrill Factor

Let’s be honest—true crime stories often feel thrilling. They trigger adrenaline without actual risk. Our brains crave stimulation, and crime stories deliver.

Additionally, these stories often have a puzzle-like quality. Listeners or viewers become amateur detectives, piecing together clues. Solving these mental puzzles provides satisfaction and excitement.

Media Plays a Huge Role

Transitioning to media influence, it’s clear it has shaped our obsession. Movies, books, and TV shows glamorize and dramatize serial killers. They turn real horror into entertainment.

Fictionalized versions, like Hannibal Lecter, create charismatic villains we can’t look away from. Even real-life killers, through interviews and documentaries, become dark celebrities.

A Safe Way to Explore Fear

Consuming true crime is a way to explore fear safely. We can experience terror without being in actual danger. Much like riding a roller coaster, it’s a controlled scare.

By understanding the worst-case scenarios, people often feel more prepared. Watching or listening can feel empowering rather than purely frightening.

Morbid Curiosity Is Natural

Humans have always had a morbid curiosity. History is filled with public executions and crime pamphlets. We are drawn to life’s extremes, both good and bad.

Serial killers represent an extreme form of evil. Studying them helps us confront our own questions about morality, humanity, and survival.

Victims Matter Too

Another important point is empathy. Many true crime consumers are deeply empathetic toward victims. They listen to honor the victims’ stories, not just for the thrill.

Raising awareness about these crimes can also lead to justice. It can push cold cases back into public view and help catch killers.

Conclusion: Our Curiosity Isn’t Going Away

In conclusion, our obsession with serial killers comes from many places—fear, curiosity, thrill-seeking, and empathy. It’s complex, just like human nature itself.

As long as true crime offers safe ways to explore danger and seek understanding, it will continue to captivate us. And perhaps, learning about the darkest parts of humanity reminds us why kindness and empathy matter even more.

Hosting a Kentucky Derby Party

Posted on April 27, 2025April 27, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva Dream Lab

The Kentucky Derby has always been one of my favorite sporting events. I remember watching it as a little girl with my Granddaddy. It wasn’t just about the race; everything fascinated me, the hats, the dresses, and of course, the horses!

Since then, I’ve kept up the tradition of watching every first Saturday in May. This year it just so happens to fall on my Daddy’s 74th birthday. For the past few years, I’ve hosted a laid-back Derby party at home. It’s simple — just how I like it. There’s no pressure, no complicated planning, just the things I love about the Derby: the race, the food, and the drinks.

Image created with Canva Dream Lab

What I Serve at My Kentucky Derby Party

Let’s talk about the essentials: mint juleps, delicate finger sandwiches, and lemon bars. You just can’t have a Derby party without these. I’m all about keeping it easy, delicious and Southern! The mint juleps are a must — they bring that authentic Derby feel to the day. And I’ll admit, I’m a sucker for a good lemon bar. There’s something about the tartness mixed with the sweetness that hits just right.

Image created with Canva Dream Lab

The Excitement of the Race

Sure, I’m not at Churchill Downs, but the thrill of the race is still there. Every year, I get excited watching the horses thunder down the track, even from my living room. No matter how many times I’ve seen it, there’s something magical about those final moments — the tension, the speed, the drama.

It is definitely on my bucket list. Me and the hubby have been talking about going for years. I know we’ll get there soon!

Image created with Canva Dream Lab

Why I Love the Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby isn’t just a race, it’s a whole vibe. It’s a chance to relax, enjoy some good food and drinks, and feel like you’re part of something special. I love the energy that comes with the day — the anticipation building as the race gets closer, the excitement when they’re off, and the moment it’s all over, with everyone celebrating or groaning, depending on their pick.

Who’s my pick? I may or may not have my money on a handsome roan colt named Sandman.

Are We Too Obsessed with “Main Character” Energy?

Posted on April 26, 2025April 26, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay

We’ve all seen it: the girl walking slowly through the crosswalk with her iced matcha and sunglasses, vibing to a song only she can hear. The TikToks with people declaring “main character energy” as they romanticize everything from grocery shopping to crying in the rain. On the surface, it seems empowering—owning your moment, being bold, making your life feel like a movie. But at what point does celebrating yourself turn into something a little… much?

What Even Is “Main Character” Energy?

“Main character energy” started as a fun reminder to stop coasting and start living with intention. And hey, there’s nothing wrong with that. Who doesn’t want to feel like the star of their own story? The idea is to add meaning to everyday life, to notice small joys, and to build confidence. All good things! But somewhere along the way, it got twisted. What began as a lighthearted trend now sometimes feels like a full-time performance.

Social Media Turned It Into a Show

Social media, of course, plays a huge role in this shift. We’re constantly seeing curated content that makes ordinary lives look like cinematic masterpieces. That trip to Target isn’t just a quick errand anymore—it’s a moment. A photoshoot. A chance to show the world how aesthetically pleasing your reusable bags are. Even something as mundane as making your bed or sipping tea is suddenly part of this larger, polished narrative. It can be fun—but it can also feel fake.

Unrealistic Expectations Start to Build

What’s more, this obsession with constantly being the main character can set up some unrealistic expectations. If every day isn’t packed with magic, growth, or an inspirational moment, it can start to feel like you’re doing something wrong. Not every morning is a sunrise jog followed by journaling and a picture-perfect breakfast. Sometimes the alarm doesn’t go off, your coffee spills, and you forget to put on deodorant. That doesn’t make you less important. It makes you human.

Comparison Is the Thief of Joy (Again)

There’s also the issue of comparison. Watching others live out their “main character” fantasy can make you question your own life. If you’re not jet-setting to dreamy locations or having deep, poetic conversations in a candlelit apartment, are you even doing it right? Yes. You are. Not every story has to look the same. Some people are on an adventure arc. Others are in their healing era. And some of us are just trying to get through Tuesday without screaming into the void.

You Don’t Have to Perform Every Day

The truth is, you don’t need to be the main character all the time. Sometimes you’re the comic relief, the background extra, or the person who just holds the door open. That doesn’t make your story any less meaningful. The quiet, unfiltered moments are just as real and valuable as the highlight reel. You don’t need a camera angle or a voiceover to matter.

So, Are We Too Obsessed?

Maybe. But that doesn’t mean we should throw the whole concept out. Let’s just bring it back to what it was meant to be: a little nudge to pay attention to our own lives, to be present, and to stop waiting for permission to enjoy ourselves. Just don’t lose yourself trying to be a star in someone else’s movie. Write your own script—flaws, mess, boring Tuesdays and all.

My Most Random Blog Post That Gets the Most Views

Posted on April 26, 2025April 26, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Perlinator from Pixabay

(And Why It Still Shocks Me)

Out of all the blog posts I’ve written, one continues to show up in my stats week after week, month after month: “How to Spot the Signs of a Narcissist.” And let me tell you—I did not expect that one to take off the way it did.

It wasn’t planned. It wasn’t part of a content calendar. It just came pouring out of me one afternoon, and I hit publish without much thought. Looking back now, I realize that maybe that’s exactly why it resonated. It was real, raw, and straight from the heart.

Why I Don’t Talk About That Relationship Much

Here’s the truth: I don’t often speak on the relationship that inspired that post, because it left me with real, deep, lifelong trauma. I have PTSD. I spent 13 years in hell.

There was physical abuse almost daily—the kind that changes you, that leaves you looking over your shoulder for years even after you escape. I’ve had:

The tip of my ring finger almost completely severed and sewn back on.
My bicep slashed with a knife.
My skull cracked open.
Multiple fractured ribs and damage to my spine.

I fought back. Believe me, I fought back hard. But the emotional abuse? That’s the kind of pain that stays long after the bruises fade. I will never trust anyone and need constant reassurance. I am also cold in so many ways.

The Emotional and Psychological Toll

No one talks enough about mental abuse. The kind that messes with your head and makes you feel like you’re losing your mind. I was manipulated, gaslit, belittled, isolated, and constantly walking on eggshells.

There was also sexual abuse. And a level of betrayal I can’t even fully put into words—infidelity that included one of my underage family members. Yeah. Let that sink in.

That relationship not only destroyed parts of me and changed me in unimaginable ways, but it also damaged my children in ways we’re still trying to understand. He is a sick man. And I will speak on the dangers of narcissism any time I get the chance.

I Wasn’t Alone… and Neither Are You

What really blew me away was how many people reached out after reading that post. Women. Men. People in romantic relationships. People dealing with narcissistic parents or toxic friends. The flood of messages made one thing clear: this problem is way more common than we think.

And unfortunately, social media is only making it worse. We live in an era where everything is filtered and curated, and narcissists thrive in that world. They crave admiration, attention, and validation—and social media hands it to them on a silver platter.

Why I’ll Never Stay Silent

I’ll never stop talking about narcissism. Because someone out there is living what I lived. Someone is in survival mode right now, scared and confused, thinking they’re alone. You’re not.

If you’re reading this and wondering if what you’re experiencing is abuse—trust your gut. If you feel like you’re walking on eggshells, constantly apologizing, and questioning your worth—trust your gut. If they love-bomb you, then devalue you, then act like you are the problem—trust your gut.

You can get out. It might take planning. It might take time. It will take courage. But you can be free.

We Heal by Speaking Up

That “random” blog post taught me something powerful: our stories matter. Even the painful ones. Maybe especially the painful ones. Because when we speak up, we give others the strength to do the same.

So if you’ve got a story buried inside you, one that’s aching to come out—write it. Share it. Talk about it. You never know who needs to hear it.

And if you’re still in the thick of it—I see you. I believe you. You are not alone.

📌 Need Help?

If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, please know there are people who care and want to help:

National Domestic Violence Hotline
📞 1-800-799-7233
📱 Or text “START” to 88788
🌐 thehotline.org

You deserve to feel safe. You deserve to be loved without fear. And you deserve to heal.

Why Being Content Isn’t the Same as Settling

Posted on April 24, 2025April 24, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Zigmars Berzins from Pixabay

Some people think being content means you’ve stopped trying or that you’ve somehow given up. That couldn’t be further from the truth. There’s a big difference between being content and settling, and it’s important to know the difference. Contentment is about peace, not resignation. It’s about being thankful for what you have while still being open to more—not staying stuck in something that doesn’t fulfill you.

What It Really Means to Be Content

When you’re content, you’re satisfied and present. You’ve stopped constantly chasing happiness, waiting for the next big thing to finally make you feel good. Instead, you’ve learned to enjoy where you are right now. You appreciate your home, your people, your work, your little routines—even if everything isn’t perfect. Contentment comes from gratitude and emotional maturity. It doesn’t mean you don’t have goals or dreams. It just means your happiness doesn’t depend on checking off a list of “shoulds.”

Settling Is a Whole Different Story

Settling feels like defeat. It’s when you accept less than what you truly want, deserve, or need—not out of joy, but out of fear, doubt, or exhaustion. It can show up in relationships, jobs, or just the way you live day to day. Maybe you’ve told yourself, “This is just how life is now,” or “It’s too late to change.” That’s settling. It’s when you quiet your own voice just to keep the peace or avoid the unknown. And it’s usually accompanied by a low-level dissatisfaction you can’t quite shake.

The Energy Behind the Two Is Everything

The energy behind being content feels calm and grounded. You wake up feeling good about your choices. You feel proud of where you are, and you’re okay if things stay like this for a while. But the energy behind settling? It feels heavy. It’s like you’re carrying around a quiet regret. You’re doing your best to convince yourself it’s “fine,” but it doesn’t feel aligned. You’re not excited—you’re just surviving.

You Can Be Content and Still Want More

There’s a huge misconception that contentment means you’ve stopped striving for growth. That’s simply not true. You can be happy with what you have and still work toward something greater. You can love your relationship and still want to improve your communication. You can enjoy your job and still be open to new opportunities. Contentment doesn’t kill ambition—it just shifts your motivation from “I’ll be happy when…” to “I’m happy now, and I’m excited about what’s next.”

So, How Can You Tell the Difference?

Ask yourself a few honest questions. Do you feel at peace, or do you feel stuck? Are you proud of your life, or just tolerating it? Do you wake up looking forward to the day, or are you constantly waiting for the weekend? If your answers lean toward frustration or numbness, you might be settling. If they lean toward gratitude, curiosity, and confidence—even if things aren’t perfect—you’re likely in a space of contentment.

Bottom Line

Being content doesn’t mean you’ve lowered your standards. It means you’ve stopped letting your happiness hinge on what’s missing. Settling, on the other hand, means you’ve stopped believing you can do better. There’s a big difference. You deserve a life that brings you peace and possibility. So, don’t confuse being content with giving up. Contentment is powerful. Settling is optional.

How to Pivot Without Feeling Like You Failed

Posted on April 23, 2025April 22, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Carlos Lincoln from Pixabay

Let’s get one thing straight: changing direction doesn’t mean you messed up. Not even close. Pivoting is growth. It’s awareness. It’s bold.

But still, it can feel like failure—especially if you’re someone who likes to follow through, finish strong, or stick with the plan. So, how do you shift gears without dragging around guilt or doubt?

Let’s talk about it.

First, Redefine What “Failure” Actually Means

Most of us were taught that quitting or changing our minds means we failed. But that’s just not true.

In reality, sticking with something that no longer serves you? That’s failure. You grow. Your needs shift. Your goals evolve. So your direction should, too.

If you’re making a pivot, it means you’ve learned something valuable. And that’s always a win.

Next, Remember Why You Started

Before you start beating yourself up, pause and reflect.

Ask yourself: Why did I begin this path in the first place? Maybe it made sense at the time. Maybe it helped you learn a new skill or gain confidence. That experience mattered—even if you’re done with it now.

Often, what felt like the right move back then helped get you to where you are today. That’s not failure. That’s part of the journey.

Then, Focus on What’s Ahead—Not What You’re Leaving

It’s easy to dwell on the time, money, or energy you’ve already invested. Totally normal.

But instead of thinking “I wasted so much,” try shifting that to “Now I know better.”

Where you’re headed next is the whole point of the pivot. If you keep looking in the rearview mirror, you’ll miss what’s ahead. Focus forward.

Be Honest With Yourself (And Others)

Sometimes we hang on just because we don’t want to explain ourselves. But let’s be real—that’s exhausting.

It’s okay to say, “This isn’t right for me anymore.” It’s okay to admit, “I thought I’d love it, but I don’t.”

Honesty doesn’t make you weak. It makes you wise. And when you own your pivot, other people respect it—even if they don’t understand it.

Remind Yourself That Pivoting Takes Courage

Letting go of the familiar is hard. Starting something new? Also hard. So the fact that you’re even considering a pivot is a big deal.

Courage isn’t about never doubting yourself. It’s about moving forward despite the doubts.

Give yourself credit. Not everyone’s brave enough to admit when something isn’t working. But you are.

Give Yourself Time to Adjust

Even when it’s the right move, pivoting can feel uncomfortable at first. That’s totally normal.

New directions take time. Don’t expect instant clarity or perfect results overnight. Give yourself space to figure it out.

Eventually, things start to click—and you’ll be glad you made the change.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need anyone’s permission to pivot. You don’t need to justify it. You don’t have to keep proving anything.

Pivoting doesn’t mean you failed. It means you’re listening to yourself. It means you’re choosing what feels right over what just looks right.

So pivot with pride. You’re not starting over. You’re just starting from experience.

Signs I’m Overdue for a Reset

Posted on April 22, 2025April 22, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva Dream Lab

Ever wake up and just know something feels off? Like you’re running on fumes and everything’s a blur? Yeah, same. Life gets hectic, and sometimes we don’t even realize we’re long overdue for a reset. But the signs are there—we just have to recognize them.

Let’s talk about the biggest indicators it’s time to hit pause and refresh.

Everything Feels Like a Chore

When brushing your teeth or folding a t-shirt feels exhausting, that’s a sign. Of course, no one loves chores, but if basic tasks feel like climbing a mountain, your body and brain are waving red flags.

Even things you normally enjoy start feeling like obligations. That’s your cue. You’re not lazy. You’re worn out.

You’re Snapping Over Nothing

If a slow driver or a loud chewer makes your blood boil, take notice. Irritability is often the first sign of burnout creeping in.

Sure, we all get annoyed. But when your patience is on a 0-second timer every day, it’s time to recharge.

You Can’t Focus for More Than a Minute

You open your laptop to write an email, and suddenly you’re deep-diving into dog videos. Been there.

When your brain can’t stay on task, it’s not just distraction—it’s fatigue. Mental clutter makes focusing hard. A reset helps clear that fog.

Your Sleep is a Hot Mess

You’re tired all day but wide awake at night. Sound familiar?

Sleep struggles are a major red flag. Whether you’re tossing, turning, or dreaming about missed deadlines, your mind is in overdrive. You’re not just tired—you’re overstimulated and out of balance.

Your Phone Screen Time is Embarrassing

Let’s be real. Doomscrolling isn’t relaxing. If your screen time is creeping into double digits, you’re probably avoiding something.

And that “something” is often your own feelings, burnout, or lack of motivation. Constant scrolling is a quick escape, but it’s not a cure.

You’re Saying “I Don’t Care” Way Too Much

Losing interest in things you usually love is a huge warning sign. If you’re constantly saying, “Whatever,” or “I don’t care,” pay attention.

Detachment isn’t always peace. Sometimes it’s emotional exhaustion in disguise. Your spark is still there—it just needs space to come back.

You Don’t Feel Like Yourself

This one’s big. Maybe you’re still doing all the right things, but it just doesn’t feel like you.

You’re going through the motions, but everything’s kind of dull. No motivation. No excitement. Just autopilot.

When your own reflection feels like a stranger, it’s time to check in with yourself.

So, What’s the Fix?

A reset doesn’t mean you have to disappear for a week or take a fancy trip. It can be small but intentional.

Take a day off social media. Clean your space. Move your body. Journal what’s on your mind. Take a nap without guilt. Drink more water. Say no more often. Get outside.

The key is to give yourself permission to slow down and reconnect. A reset is about you—what you need, what you’re missing, and how you want to feel again.

Final Thoughts

Recognizing the signs of burnout is a superpower. It means you’re self-aware. It means you’re ready to take back control of your energy and mindset.

So next time you feel off, don’t ignore it. Listen. Reset. Repeat.

You’ve got this.

Why I Don’t Work a “Normal” 9–5 Schedule

Posted on April 19, 2025April 20, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Peggy und Marco Lachmann-Anke from Pixabay

I have always done exactly what I want. I just can’t fathom asking someone if I can go to the restroom or have a day off at this point in my life. I also have a hard time imagining spending 40 hours at a job slaving to make the owners rich. I’m way too hard-headed.

I’ve Never Been a “Typical Job” Kind of Person

I’ve had very few “normal” jobs in my life. The idea of clocking in at 9 and out at 5 never felt like a fit. For most of my adult life, I’ve worked for myself—whether that meant running my own business or taking on 1099 contract work.

Family Was My Why

The reason I chose this path came down to one non-negotiable: my kids. With six of them, there was always something happening. Events, appointments, after-school activities—you name it. I refused to miss out. I didn’t want them to have to say no to things just because I couldn’t make it work with a job. That wasn’t going to happen on my watch.

Why I Chose Cosmetology

That commitment to being present is what pushed me toward cosmetology. Becoming a hairstylist and manicurist meant I could set my own schedule. I could make money and still be available when my kids needed me. If I wanted to take off for a sporting event or cancel appointments for a sick day, I could. That kind of freedom? Game-changer.

Remote Work Before It Was Cool

In 2012, I made another big leap—into remote work. Back then, hardly anyone in my area was working from home. I was definitely one of the first. Most people didn’t even understand what I was doing. I’d get confused looks when I said I worked online. But I saw the future, and I wasn’t waiting around for others to catch up.

Building a Life on My Terms

Remote work opened up an entirely new world for me. I could work early in the morning, late at night, or whenever I had a gap in my day. It let me continue to be there for my family without sacrificing income. And more than that, it gave me ownership over my time.

I Still Don’t Work the Way Most People Do

Even now, when remote work is way more accepted, I still don’t follow a typical schedule. I’ve been doing this for over a decade, and I’ve figured out a rhythm that actually works for my life. I start early, get my priorities in order, and fit work into the pockets of time that make sense. I don’t need a time clock to tell me when I’m productive.

My Life, My Rules

Choosing not to work a 9–5 doesn’t mean I’m lazy or don’t take my work seriously. It means I’ve been intentional about creating a life that fits me. One where I don’t have to compromise the things that matter most.

If you’re wondering if it’s possible to break out of the “normal” work mold—it is. I’ve done it. And I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat.

How I Create Content on Empty-Brain Days

Posted on April 18, 2025April 20, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Dong Nhut Tran from Pixabay

Let’s be real—some days, the creative spark just isn’t there. You sit at your desk. You stare at the screen. And your brain? Crickets.

I’ve been there. Way more times than I’d like to admit. But over the years, I’ve found a few tricks that help me push through—even when my brain feels like a wrung-out sponge.

So, if you’re sitting there thinking, “I’ve got nothing,” keep reading. I promise it gets better.

I Start With a Brain Dump

When I feel stuck, I stop trying to be clever. I grab a notebook or open a blank document and just let my thoughts spill out. No pressure, no fancy sentences, no goal—just writing.

Sometimes I list random to-dos. Other times, I vent about how I’m stuck. The magic here isn’t in what I write—it’s that I’m writing something. Anything. It gets the wheels turning without the stress of creating something “good.”

I Revisit Old Ideas

After the brain dump, I’ll scroll through my old idea lists—the ones I jotted down and forgot about. Most of the time, I find a title or half-formed thought that sparks something.

Maybe I wasn’t ready to write that post before, but now it clicks. And if it doesn’t? I might still borrow a piece of it to start something fresh. It’s way easier than starting from scratch.

Templates Are My Besties

If I’m really dragging, I grab a template. Not a cookie-cutter one—but a structure that helps me get moving. For example, a simple “5 Tips” list or a “How-To” format gives my brain a path to follow.

Having a format takes away the overwhelming feeling of endless possibility. It narrows my focus just enough to make progress. And once I’m rolling, the creative energy tends to follow.

I Talk It Out

When typing isn’t working, I open the voice recorder on my phone and start talking. I pretend I’m explaining the topic to a friend or answering a question someone asked me.

This method lets my thoughts flow more naturally. Later, I go back, transcribe what I said, and clean it up. Surprisingly, some of my favorite lines come from these unfiltered rambles.

I Change My Scenery

Nothing dries up my creativity faster than staying in the same place all day. If I’ve been sitting at my desk too long, I move. I might go sit outside, switch to the kitchen table, or even write from the floor with a blanket.

The change doesn’t have to be dramatic. Just shifting my physical space often helps shift my mental space too. A fresh view can lead to fresh ideas.

I Let Go of Perfect

This one’s the hardest, but it makes the biggest difference. When I feel blocked, it’s usually because I’m chasing perfection on the first try. That’s a losing game.

Now, I give myself permission to write something messy, even bad. Because messy drafts lead to something real. And real can be edited. A blank page? That’s impossible to work with.

Final Thoughts

Creating content when your brain feels empty is hard—but it’s not impossible. You don’t have to wait for inspiration. You just need momentum.

Start with anything. Use old notes. Try a template. Talk it out. Change your space. But most of all, let go of the need to be perfect. The ideas are still in there. You just need a way to shake them loose.

And once you do, you’ll be surprised at what you create—even on the emptiest of days.

Let’s Travel to Rockford, Illinois

Posted on April 17, 2025March 25, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Photo Courtesy of gabe popa, FLICKR

Rockford, Illinois, is a vibrant city filled with history, culture, and outdoor beauty. Known as the “Forest City,” Rockford offers stunning gardens, fascinating museums, and a thriving arts scene. Whether you’re exploring nature or diving into local history, this Midwest gem has something for everyone. Pack your bags and get ready to discover Rockford!

Photo Courtesy of Sajith T S, FLICKR

Interesting Facts:

The Forest City: Rockford earned its nickname due to its abundance of parks and green spaces, with over 7,000 acres of public parkland.
Home to the Sock Monkey: The classic red-heeled sock monkey originated in Rockford, thanks to the local Nelson Knitting Company.
Aviation Innovation: Rockford is a major hub for aerospace manufacturing, with companies producing aircraft parts for Boeing and Airbus.
Anderson Japanese Gardens: Rockford’s Anderson Japanese Gardens is considered one of the top Japanese gardens in North America.

Photo Courtesy of Sajith T S, FLICKR

Useful Information:

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer mild weather, perfect for exploring the city’s parks and outdoor attractions.
What to Wear: Dress in layers, as Midwest weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for sightseeing.
Getting Around: A car is the best way to explore, but Rockford has public transportation and walkable areas downtown.

Photo Courtesy of Amy Meredith, FLICKR

What to Do:

Visit Anderson Japanese Gardens: Relax in this beautifully designed Japanese garden, featuring waterfalls, koi ponds, and serene landscapes.
Explore the Burpee Museum of Natural History: See Jane, one of the most complete juvenile T. rex skeletons ever discovered, and other fascinating exhibits.
Wander Through the Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens: Enjoy lush tropical plants and seasonal floral displays in this beautiful riverside conservatory.
Tour Midway Village Museum: Step back in time at this living history museum showcasing Rockford’s rich past with interactive exhibits and historic buildings.
Walk Along the Rock River Recreation Path: This scenic trail offers stunning river views and is perfect for walking, biking, or jogging.
Catch a Game at Rivets Stadium: Watch the Rockford Rivets, the city’s summer collegiate baseball team, for an exciting night of sports entertainment.

Related: Let’s Travel to Boise

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.