While the movie “Groundhog Day” put the charming town of Woodstock on the map, there’s more than shadows to see (or not see) for families looking for fun. Boasting a rich history, vibrant arts and culture scene, Victorian architecture, unique shops and restaurants, Woodstock is an ideal destination for your next family day out.
Getting there: Woodstock is located about 51 miles northwest of downtown Chicago in McHenry County. Woodstock is easily accessible from downtown Chicago via the Metra on the Union Pacific/Northwest Line. For those coming from the city, hop on I-90/94W, then head north on IL-47.
Eat
Casting Whimsy
- Address: 203 N. Madison St., Woodstock
The enchanting Alice in Wonderland-themed tea shop crafts loose-leaf tea blends with a “nerdy twist.” To level up your tea experience, reserve an Afternoon Tea Spot, which includes a tower of delectable goodies and a pot of tea.
Ethereal Confections
- Address: 140 Cass St., Woodstock
For a caffeine boost, look no further than Ethereal. This bean-to-bar chocolatier crafts all its chocolate from scratch. Indulge in a sweet treat and don’t forget to bring home some goodies.
Chop Suey Hut
- Address: 218 N. Throop St., Woodstock
Chop Suey Hut stands out as our favorite Chinese restaurants in the area. Don’t miss out on the must-try items, such as the egg rolls with peanut butter, flavorful noodles and crispy fried chicken. Before leaving kids can select a prize from the treasure box.
Sweet Reds Patisserie & Café
- Address: 110 N. Benton St., Woodstock
Indulge in the delights of the French-inspired bakery and cafe, featuring a variety of sweet and savory pastries, croissants, soups, an extensive selection of cupcakes, freshly baked breads and more. Ooh la la!
Cesaroni’s Café and Deli
- Address: 236 Main St., Woodstock
The charming corner cafe assembles delightful sandwiches using fresh ingredients. Pro tip: When the weather is warmer, grab your sandwich to go and savor it just one block away in the green space of the Square.
Millie’s Michoacana
- Address: 116 N. Benton St., Woodstock
Discover unique ice cream flavors such as horchata or passion fruit. The mangonada stands out and the elotes are a surefire hit.
Shop
Read Between the Lynes
- Address: 111 E. Van Buren St., Woodstock
Make sure to visit this indie bookstore around the Square. The welcoming staff is ready to recommend your next favorite book, plus they also offer coffee and ice cream to enjoy.
Rocket Fizz Soda Pop and Candy Shop
- Address: 109 S. Benton St., Woodstock
Sweeten your day with a stop at Rocket Fizz. It stocks nearly every soda imaginable, along with a wide variety of candies. You can’t walk out empty-handed.
Anime and Things
- Address: 109 E. Van Buren St., Woodstock
Anime enthusiasts will adore the shop full of figures, collectibles, games, books and your favorite Japanese snacks.
My Little Bow Peep’s Shop
- Address: 102 Cass St., Woodstock
Stock your little one’s closet (or assist another mother) by exploring this charming boutique specializing in adorable outfits. Sign up for the Birthday Club to receive offers on their special day.
Play
Woodstock Water Works
From Memorial Day weekend to mid-August, families can splash away at Woodstock Water Works. The facility boasts a gated “baby pool” for the littlest splashers, a zero-depth entry pool featuring exciting play elements and two thrilling water slides, and a lap pool complete with low and high dives. Prefer to stay dry? There’s a play area for tots and plenty of green space. Napoli Pizza, a local favorite, is on hand to satisfy any hunger with their concessions.
Emricson Park
- Address: 900 W. South St., Woodstock
Children will delight in the sandy playground, while additional attractions such as a paved walking trail, sand volleyball court, baseball diamond and more enhance the overall experience.
Pleasant Valley Conservation Area
Located on more than 2000 acres, the Pleasant Valley Conservation Area offers a serene escape into nature that kids will appreciate. With more than five miles of nature trails and a serene pond ideal for fishing, it stands as an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts in search of tranquility and natural beauty.
Makity Make
- Address: 101 N. Johnson #1D, Woodstock
The DIY craft studio, located at the Woodstock Courthouse, is a wonderful spot to let the creative juices flow. It offers daily projects to delve into pottery and wood projects. Additionally, there are workshops and kids classes offering diverse craft mediums like clay handbuilding or canvas painting.
Explore
Hitch’N Post Alpaca and Llama Farm
- Address: 1406 Parklane Drive, Woodstock
Meet the sweet alpacas and llamas here while learning all about what goes into raising them. The affordable one-hour tour includes even giving the animals a treat! Don’t forget your camera. $5/person for tour, 5 and under/free. Tours are by appointment, 815-979-6939.
Murals and public art
- Located throughout the Square
Love public art and murals? Murals are aplenty in downtown Woodstock. Don’t miss the captivating “Made in Woodstock” mural at 220 N. Benton St.
Woodstock Opera House
- Address: 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock
Woodstock’s cultural entertainment hub, the Gothic-style Opera House, showcases plays, concerts and performances year-round. During the summer, take in the annual musical production from Woodstock Children’s Summer Theatre.
Historic Square
- Cass and Van Buren streets, Woodstock
Stroll through the historic square and marvel at the architecture. With a gazebo and plenty of benches, The Victorian Square is the hub of the area. Independent and locally owned businesses line the charming Square. Check out a walking tour or go on a self-guided Groundhog Day Walking Tour.
Classic Cinemas Woodstock Theatre
- Address: 209 Main St., Woodstock
This restored historic theater, featured in the movie Groundhog Day, not only boasts captivating charm but also offers the best matinee deal at $6 for new features. If you get a chance, check out Auditorium 1 — it is truly breathtaking.
Woodstock Public Library
- Address: 414 W. Judd St., Woodstock
Children will delight in the bright play area. The library goes beyond books, providing a welcoming space for young minds to explore and play. It’s a place where learning, fun and community care come together under one roof.
Seasonal fun
Dented Gate Flower Farm
During growing season, choose your own blossoms at this U-Pick Flower Field. Located just five minutes west of the Historic Woodstock Square, the U-Pick Flower Field is a wonderful way to spend time with the family. Choose to craft your own arrangements or select a pre-made flower arrangement.
All Seasons Orchard
- Address: 14510 IL Route 176, Woodstock
The quintessential fall experience at All Seasons Orchard includes picking apples (or the Asian pears), then enjoying all the fun activities and shows. Don’t miss the delicious treats like the popular apple cider doughnuts or apple doughnut sundaes!
Groundhog Days
Woodstock goes all out for Groundhog Day, of course! Don’t miss out on their celebrations in 2024.
Feb. 1
- Groundhog Storytime, Courthouse Center, 5:15 p.m. Free.
- Welcoming Woodstock Willie, Courthouse Center. The Woodstock Community Choir performs songs from the Woodstock Willie Song Book, 6 p.m. Free.
- Watch “Groundhog Day,” the 1992 movie at 7 p.m. $7 kids, $9 adults (also showing Noon Feb. 2, $7 and 10 a.m. Feb. 3-4, $7), Harold Ramis Auditorium, Classic Cinemas Woodstock Theater, 209 Main St.
Feb. 2
- Groundhog Day Prognostication, Woodstock Square. Will Willie see his shadow or won’t he? (We’re hoping he predicts a shorter winter!!), 7 a.m. Free.
- Walking Tour of Filming Sites, start at Opera House. (Also offered at 1 p.m. Feb. 3-4). Take a tour of the “Groundhog Day” filming sites. Dress warmly. The tour ends at the B & B where Bill Murray woke up every morning. Head inside the Cherry Tree Inn and warm up with hot cider. 10 a.m., free.
Feb. 3
- Groundhog Tales: Storytelling with Jim May, Home State Bank, 124 S. Johnson. 10 a.m., free.
Follow Chicago Parent on Instagram.
