A resort-style Best Western near Anderson Japanese Gardens and Rockford's main attractions, featuring an indoor waterpark, multiple dining options, and spacious family rooms. Great value for families visiting Rockford.
The Best Western Clock Tower Resort is a family-oriented resort-style hotel at 7801 East State Street in North Rockford, Illinois, approximately 90 miles west of Chicago along US-20. Rockford is Illinois's third-largest city and a regional hub for industrial arts, natural history, and the acclaimed Anderson Japanese Garden — consistently ranked among the finest Japanese gardens in the United States. The Clock Tower Resort takes its name from the distinctive tower structure at the entrance to the complex, and the property's scale and indoor aquatic infrastructure set it apart from standard business hotel alternatives in the Rockford market.
The resort encompasses over 250 rooms and suites across a sprawling complex, with room configurations suitable for families — connecting rooms and double-queen options are available — and couples seeking a weekend retreat within a practical drive from the Chicagoland area. Suites include kitchenettes and extra sleeping areas, making them particularly popular during Illinois school holidays. The property's anchor amenity is its indoor waterpark complex, featuring multiple pools, water slides, a hot tub, and a splash pad area for younger children, an attraction that operates year-round regardless of Illinois's variable climate.
Beyond the waterpark, the resort includes a full-service restaurant offering American comfort food, a lounge with bar service, and a fitness center with cardio and weight equipment. Complimentary outdoor parking is available across a large surface lot, and the hotel's State Street address provides easy freeway access to US-20 and I-90. The Anderson Japanese Garden, which regularly receives top national rankings, is approximately 5 miles west in central Rockford. The Rockford Art Museum and Burpee Museum of Natural History are also within a short drive.
The Clock Tower Resort's combination of indoor aquatics, resort scale, and value pricing makes it a destination in its own right for Illinois families, rather than merely a place to sleep during Rockford area visits.
Amenities
- indoor waterpark
- pools
- restaurant
- bar
- fitness center
- free parking
Location
7801 E State St, Rockford, IL 61108
42.2570, -88.9795 View on map
Highlights
- Indoor waterpark with multiple pools, water slides, and a splash pad — open year-round regardless of Illinois weather
- Resort-scale complex with 250-plus rooms, connecting room options, and family suites with kitchenettes
- Close to Anderson Japanese Garden, one of the highest-rated Japanese gardens in the United States
- Complimentary outdoor parking and easy freeway access on US-20 and I-90 for Chicagoland visitors
- Full-service restaurant and lounge on-site, making the resort self-contained for family stays
Tips for visiting
- Book waterpark suites for children's visits — select room categories include direct access to the pool complex
- The indoor waterpark is busiest on weekend afternoons and during Illinois school breaks; aim for weekday morning access
- Anderson Japanese Garden requires timed entry; book tickets at least 2 weeks ahead for summer weekend visits
- East State Street (US-20) connects directly to I-90 for Chicago-area visitors making a weekend trip
- The Rockford Art Museum and Burpee Museum of Natural History are both within 10 miles and combine well with a resort stay
Accessibility
The Best Western Clock Tower Resort offers ADA-compliant accessible guest rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and visual alarm systems. The resort's low-rise layout makes ground-floor accessible room access straightforward without elevator dependency. The indoor water park facility has a zero-entry pool option for guests with mobility limitations. Guests with specific accessibility requirements should contact the resort prior to arrival.
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Frequently asked questions
Does the Best Western Clock Tower Resort have an indoor water park?
Yes, the property features an indoor aquatic complex with multiple pools, water slides, a splash pad for young children, and a hot tub. The water park is open year-round. Standard room rates do not always include water park access; confirm inclusion at booking.
How far is the Best Western Clock Tower Resort from Chicago?
The resort is approximately 90 miles west of Chicago, a drive of about 90 minutes to 2 hours via I-90 West. It is well positioned as a weekend destination for Chicagoland families seeking indoor aquatic facilities.
Is the Best Western Clock Tower Resort near the Anderson Japanese Garden?
Yes, the Anderson Japanese Garden in central Rockford is approximately 5 miles west of the hotel on East State Street, a 10-minute drive. The garden is widely considered one of the finest Japanese gardens in North America and requires timed entry tickets.
Are pets allowed at the Best Western Clock Tower Resort?
Best Western properties vary in their pet policies. The Clock Tower Resort may accommodate pets in designated rooms with advance notice and a fee. Guests should contact the hotel directly to confirm current policy before booking.
What amenities are included with a Best Western Clock Tower Resort stay?
The resort includes free outdoor parking, a fitness center, a full-service restaurant, and a lounge. Access to the indoor water park complex may be included in select rate packages or available as an add-on at the time of booking.