Posted in Illinois Attractions, Small Towns January 27, 2021 by

Woodstock Is A Small Town In Illinois That Offers Plenty Of Peace And Quiet

There’s a reason Hallmark movies are all set in small towns. Cozy, intimate, and quiet, small towns offer a slower pace of life that’s hard to resist. If you’re looking for the ultimate Midwest small town, consider Woodstock, Illinois. Woodstock offers residents small-town charm and character, and a quality of life that has folks happy to call it home.

Woodstock is located in McHenry County, about an hour's drive from Chicago.
Woodstock City Hall/woodstockil.gov
First established in 1844, the city was originally known as Centerville, referencing its central location and role as county seat. In 1845, Centerville was renamed Woodstock.
Woodstock has garnered lots of recognition over the years as a wonderful place to live.
Trip117/TripAdvisor
The town was named an All America City in 1964, a Certified City in 1987, a National Trust Distinctive Destination in 2007, and most recently, a Preserve America Community.
Throughout the year, Woodstock's Town Square is home to festivals, parades, and other community events.
City of Woodstock - City Hall/Facebook
Not to worry – Woodstock Folk Festival is much smaller than its ‘60s namesake; it's a slower-paced, family-friendly favorite.
The Town Square is also home to the The Woodstock Farmer’s Market.
Woodstock Farmers Market/Facebook
The market takes place from May to October, and is a favorite summer attraction. Located in the heart of Woodstock's downtown, the market is a delightful mix of local farmers and artisans.
If Woodstock's City Square looks familiar, it's because you probably saw it – again and again – in the classic 1993 movie Groundhog Day.
GrazaLiverpool/TripAdvisor
Woodstock is very proud of its role in this film, hosting an annual festival over Groundhog Day weekend each winter.
As part of the festival, the movie is played at Woodstock's historic theatre.
Tinythefrog/TripAdvisor
Visitors can even spend the night in the movie's iconic B&B.
The Cherry Tree Inn Bed and Breakfast/Facebook
The Cherry Tree Inn has been charming guests for decades, offering guests beautiful views, R&R, and delicious, home-cooked meals. The Inn actually sources many of its ingredients from the town farmer's market.
But don't let the Hollywood glitz and glam fool you. Woodstock is about as laid back as it gets.
Alan21096/TripAdvisor
Locals love dining at the Public House of Woodstock, located on the ground level of the old McHenry County Courthouse.
The Public House of Woodstock has been a favorite dining spot for decades.
Public House of Woodstock/Facebook
Their Sunday brunches are legendary, best savored over the course of a long, leisurely morning spent with family.
Woodstock is also a natural beauty, offering lots of options for outdoor recreation.
Eric Qiu/AllTrails
Pleasant Valley Nature Trail is a close-to-town favorite that's known for its tranquility and array of wildflowers.
Boone Creek Conservation Area is also a favorite outdoor spot.
Boone Creek/AllTrails
The preserve boasts several hiking trails, and even a loop for horseback riding.
Woodstock offers residents a slower pace of life with time for what really matters.
City of Woodstock - City Hall/Facebook
Local pride, small-town living, and wholesome, family values: that's what Woodstock is all about.

Don’t let the movie fool you – everyone who visits Woodstock falls in love with this charming, quiet little town. From its beautiful buildings and town square, to Midwest sensibility and slower pace of life,Woodstock is a delightful place where you’ll want to stop and stay.

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Address: Woodstock, IL 60098, USA