Summertime Fun in the Forest City

Whether as children in school or as working adults, Summer was always the time of the year for adventure, travel, and leisure activities. As we age, there is no reason to refrain from summer fun.

Here are a few ways we enjoy Summer at Siena on Brendenwood in the Rockford area. Community members can enjoy these adventures on their own or with a group of friends. 

Gardening

Gardening is a popular pastime for Siena residents in our park where we have raised garden beds, the courtyard for container gardening or many residents have plants that decorate the entryway to their apartments. 

Experts agree that there are physical, emotional, and psychological benefits gained by gardening. We have even noticed that some even dabble in a little photography of their gardening success as well!

Outdoor concerts/theater

We are located close to fantastic music venues (Anderson Japanese Gardens, Sinnissippi Bandshell, Klehm Arboretum and Edgebrook Center) and an outdoor theater at Rock Valley Community College. There are activities held on a weekly basis throughout the summer. This makes it easy for individuals and organizations to develop a consistent schedule.

Farmers Markets/Rockford City Market

There are also several local Farmer's Markets as well as the Rockford City Market that are an excellent choice of summertime pastimes. These are great opportunities to pick up fresh vegetables or other treats, socialize and enjoy the nice summer weather.

Waters

Many city parks and a walking path adorn the Rock River nearby, as well as Rock Cut State Park and other city parks and county forest preserves to explore that have either moving waters or ponds/lakes. Fishing, bird (and people) watching, and picnics are great options at these destinations.

Baseball 

Any conversation about things to do during the summer that does not include baseball is incomplete. There is signage on Rockford area roads that refers to Rockford as the cradle of Baseball, referring to the Rockford Forest City Baseball Club of 1865-1871 and of course the Rockford Peaches of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League of the 1940’s and 50’s. Most of the residents here are long-time baseball fans and that is often a topic of conversation overheard at dinners or with staff members. And nearby are the Rockford Rivets (Northwoods League) and Beloit Sky Carp (Minor League affiliate of the Miami Marlins) baseball stadiums to enjoy a game in person.

Active Lifestyles

Our Active and Independent Senior Living Community offers many of these summertime activities both on campus and off.  With such a variety of activities offered by our Life Enrichment Department, we have something for everyone to take part in. As you are enjoying any summertime activity, please be prepared for the possibility of changing weather conditions as well as making sure you have comfortable and appropriate clothing and shoes. Also, important would be to make sure that you protect yourself with sunscreen and most important of all, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated!