The best book, hobby & craft shops in Rockford

5 book, hobby & craft shops we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Hobbies, Books, & Crafts · 5 places · showing the latest additions first

Rockford Music

Hobbies, Books, & Crafts

From school-band emergencies to weekend jam sessions, Rockford Music has been helping Northern Illinois make noise for over 50 years. Swing…

219 James Ave

“From school-band emergencies to weekend jam sessions, Rockford Music has been helping Northern Illinois make noise for over 50 years. Swing by this week for quality band and orchestra instruments, classical and bass guitars, rentals, repairs, and the kind of advice that saves you from buying the wrong thing... again.”

From the Rockford newsletter, August 3, 2026

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Hobby Lobby

Hobbies, Books, & Crafts

Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.

6640 E State St

“Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.”

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Guitar Center

Hobbies, Books, & Crafts

Well-stocked music store offering a range of gear (including used models) along with lessons.

5425 E State St

“Well-stocked music store offering a range of gear (including used models) along with lessons.”

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Guzzardo Performance Music

Hobbies, Books, & Crafts

Instruments and repairs are on offer at this music shop that also provides rental services and lessons.

3010 Charles St

“Instruments and repairs are on offer at this music shop that also provides rental services and lessons.”

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Run a Rockford business? Two pinned spots a day — $10 here, $25 adds the newsletter. Advertise →

Michaels

Hobbies, Books, & Crafts

Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).

6301 E State St

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

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