Rockford earned the nickname "Screw City" for a reason. For many years, the city was full of factories making screws, tools, and other hardware that kept farms, factories, and machines running across the country. The name made sense. It showed that Rockford was a place built on hard work, skilled workers, and people who took pride in making things that worked well.

The city is known by many names, including "Forest City" and "City of Gardens," but "Screw City" is an enduring name that honors a proud blue-collar tradition. Our real estate agents take a look at how the name is carried on through the business community near Rockford homes for sale.  

Where to Find the "Screw City" Name Around Rockford, IL

Screw City Tavern - Rockford, IL

Address: 4412 Manchester Drive, Rockford, IL 61109

Whether you want a family-friendly outing or a night out with friends, Screw City Tavern is the place to be. Not many entrepreneurs would have dared to open a new restaurant in the midst of a pandemic, but after five years and counting, Screw City Tavern is still going strong, serving elevated comfort food. 

Plan a visit during these popular weekly events: 

• Karaoke Night, each Thursday from 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.
• Weekend brunch from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
• Fish Fry-days with cod, catfish, and bluegill

Hours are 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.

Screw City Food Co-op - Rockford, IL

Address: Various Locations

Want to eat healthy and save money while supporting the local community? Screw City Food Co-op aims to open a brick-and-mortar grocery store that's consumer-owned, where customers can find locally sourced meat, produce, and other food items. Currently, they're participating in area farmers markets and hosting events such as last spring's seed swap.

Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for the latest information.

Screw City IceHogs - Rockford, IL

Address: BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, IL 61101

You may know the Screw City IceHogs under their secret identity as the Rockford IceHogs, the primary AHL affiliate of the NHL's Chicago Blackhawks. During select games over the last three seasons, the team has donned three different jerseys with a special logo that pays homage to Rockford's history. 

Check out the IceHogs at one of these upcoming games:

• Blackhawks Centennial Celebration vs. Milwaukee Admirals (Sunday, 2/15 at 2 p.m.)
• Postgame Skate with the Hogs vs. San Diego Gulls (Sunday, 2/22 at 2 p.m.)
• Salute to the Arts Night vs. Hershey Bears (Saturday, 2/28 at 5 p.m.)

Visit the website for full schedule and ticket prices.

Screw City Vintage - Rockford, IL

Address: 2019 Broadway, Rockford, IL 61104

Everything old is new again at Screw City Vintage. The ever-changing inventory includes great Y2K items the owner discovered on a recent holiday trip to Mexico. Add flair to your wardrobe with unique clothing that spans the 1970s through the early 2000s.

On any given day, the shop may be offering items such as:

• NASCAR racing jackets
• Classic rock t-shirts
• Kitschy holiday sweaters

Screw City Vintage is open Wednesday through Sunday from noon - 6 p.m.

Screw City CrossFit - Rockford, IL

Address: 7326 N. Cherryvale Mall Drive, Rockford, IL 61112

Whether you're maintaining a six-pack or just starting your fitness journey, Screw City CrossFit can help you attain your goals. The group fitness classes blend cardio, body weight, and free weights for a well-rounded workout. Some sessions are designed for ages 55+, and yoga classes are available to explore the mind-body connection.

Visit the website for schedule and membership pricing. Drop-in rates are $15 per class. Sign up for a free introductory session, including a facilities tour.

Ready to Call Rockford "Home?"

By any name, Rockford is a wonderful place to live. Get in touch with us for experienced assistance with all your real estate needs.