Tinker Swiss Cottage offers a glimpse of a forgotten age. Rockford businessman and one-time mayor Robert Hall Tinker built this exotic Victorian home in 1865 after a whirlwind trip to Europe. Today, filled with original furnishings, artwork and family diaries, Tinker Swiss Cottage is open as a museum, transporting its visitors back to Rockford in the 1890's. The Cottage is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Over the past few years, steps have been taken to return the Tinker estate to the way it once was. In 2005, the Museum reconstructed the 1891 suspension bridge that once linked Mr. Tinker's cottage with his wife's property on the other side of Kent Creek. The unique bridge is now open for visitors to experience as part of their tour. A circular rose garden in front of the Cottage has been recreated using heritage varieties of roses and perennials. In addition, Mr. Tinker's 1873 barn has also been reconstructed, and offers space for special events, exhibits, programs, meetings and community events.