Rockford is an unexpectedly lively, affordable base for multi‑week contracts — a mid‑size city with a strong arts and outdoors scene including the acclaimed Anderson Japanese Gardens, Coronado Theatre, Burpee Museum and the Nicholas Conservatory, plus riverfront restaurants and abundant parks for easy after‑work escapes.
For weekend variety you’re a short drive from Janesville (≈30–35 miles) and the state capital Madison (about 70–75 miles), both offering bigger‑city shopping, dining and airport options when you want a change of pace.