Every February, Groundhog Day revelers from around the world visit Woodstock, Illinois to watch a rodent predict the weather for the coming weeks. This may sound crazy to some, but if you've seen the 90's classic Groundhog Day featuring Bill Murray, you know what we're talking about. The film is based on the annual event hosted in Punxsatawney, Pennsylvania, but if you make the treck to Pensylvania you will find that it looks nothing like the movie. Tha...READ MORE!
BRAND GUIDELINES & PROMISE STATMENTS
Visit McHenry County, in collaboration with McHenry County, Illinois, and the McHenry County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC), has unveiled an all-new brand identity — Naturally McHenry County — that aligns the three entities to better promote the county as a top choice to visit, live and work. Highlighted by gorgeous, natural vistas with miles of rivers, streams and trails, plus innume...READ MORE!
Illinois Office of Tourism Announces 28 New Small Businesses Inducted to the Illinois Made Program
Including 2 McHenry County businesses!
Newest Illinois Made class highlights diverse group of small businesses with goal of generating tourism activity in every corner of Illinois
The Illinois Office of Tourism today announced 28 new small businesses, or ‘Makers’ have been recognized as part of the Illinois Made program. The program recog...READ MORE!
McHenry County comes alive during the holiday season!
Experience the best of it on our Merry McHenry County Holiday Getaway.
We've done all the planning, all you have to do is book your magical holiday getaway to McHenry County, IL.
Friday:
Arrive and check-in at the Holiday Inn Crystal Lake
Visit Downtown Crystal Lake's Santa House to get your wish list taken care of with the big man!
Head to Duke's Alehouse & Kitche...READ MORE!
Conservation District Disc Golf Course at Fel Pro ranked one of the higest in the Chicagoland Area
When McHenry County Conservation District’s new and improved 18-hole Disc Golf Course at Fel Pro Conservation Area in Cary opened in September of 2020, no one could have guessed its immediate growth in popularity.
Based on the UDisc App and website for disc golfers that tracks over 10,000 courses worldwide, Fel-Pro Conservation Area’s...READ MORE!
If you’re scrolling Instagram in late summer, you will most likely see beautiful fields of sunflowers filling your feed. Want to jump on the Insta trend? Well, you’re in luck, McHenry County is home to 4 farms filled with sunflowers for days. Below is a list of our local farms offering sunflower fields, mazes and special events. Always check each of their social media channels before visiting to ensure the blooms are ready as things change quickly based on th...READ MORE!
After the year that was 2020, it’s time to get out and experience it all! That is why we have put together the ultimate Summer 2021 Bucket List so you can get the most out of your summer adventures. This list is packed with outdoor adventures, fun for the family, delicious detours and so much more! So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into summer!
Kayak the Nippersink –
Bring your own Kayak or rent from Scull & Oars to experience t...READ MORE!
In McHenry County, strawberries typically peak in early to mid-June and typically last only a few weeks due to popularity. We are lucky to have a wide variety of farms that offer pick-your-own strawberries, so we want to give you a few tips and tricks to make the most out of your visit.
Walk carefully in the strawberry fields so that you do not damage plants or fruit along the edge of the row.
Only pick berries that are fully red.
Grasp ...READ MORE!
McHenry County is home to so many unique farms and farmers markets. Unlike grocery stores though, fresh produce is only available during certain times of the year. Explore the guide below to discover where and when you can pick and purchase the freshest produce straight from the growers. Looking to shop our farmers markets? Click HERE to see all of the farmers markets that call McHenry County home.
Asparagus –
&...READ MORE!
Tips to enjoy your visit - by O the Places We Go
Opening date for the 2022 Festival are TBD!
We will update as soon as Mother Nature is ready to bloom!
Did you hear? Tulips are coming back to McHenry County! Richardson Farm in Spring Grove is hosting their 2nd annual Tulip Festival. This is HUGE considering no one else in the Chicagoland area has done anything like this. Richardson Farm is no stranger to fun – every year they open their doors ...READ MORE!
Is there anything more refreshing than a cold craft beer after experiencing the beauty of nature? McHenry County is home to many great things but these two complement each other. Whether you are a local looking to experience your community and the beauty that surrounds it, or a visitor looking for the best kept-secrets of McHenry County, this is a list to get you started.
Cary Ale House & Brewing | Fel-Pro RRR Conservation Area
3.4 mil...READ MORE!
Their bright red parkas popping against a backdrop of sunlit snow on a chilly, early March afternoon, George and Wendy Richardson pointed toward a northwesterly field on their 500-acre farm.
Soon enough, that sea of melting snow will give way to brilliant oranges, deep reds, bright pinks, purples, yellows and golds as the 300,000 tulip bulbs planted there begin to emerge.
Thirty different varieties with names like Apricot Impression, Golde...READ MORE!
Looking for a supremely fun, safe, socially distanced Spring Break road trip? We have a few ideas for you! Nothing beats the winter blues like loading up the car and hitting the road for some springtime family fun. McHenry County has the perfect balance of vast nature experiences and all the comforts of home so that everyone can have an enjoyable getaway.
Where to stay:
The Holiday Inn Chicago Northwest Crystal Lake is ready to welcome y...READ MORE!
We have had one heck of a year, so let’s show the ones we love some love. Valentine’s Day is typically roses and chocolates, but we have some suggestions for you to get for your sweetie and support local businesses while you’re at it. From seasonal favorites from McHenry County breweries to hand-made sweets and bath bombs, to things to do on Valentine’s Day, there is a little something for everyone and they’re all McHenry County MADE!
&nb...READ MORE!
Cold weather is officially here. Take advantage of the winter season by exploring the vast outdoor adventures McHenry County has to offer. Whether it’s sledding with the family, ice fishing with friends, or hiking a candlelight trail there are winter activities and outdoor recreation for everyone.
Snowshoeing, Cross Country Skiing & Winter Hiking | Map
The McHenry County Conservation District offers two weekends of candlelight cross-country...READ MORE!
Holiday lights are twinkling throughout McHenry County and thousands of people are out and exploring the beauty. But we all know that road trips require sweets. That is why we put together a list of all of the best places to get hot chocolate, ice cream, and chocolates to make your adventures complete. These independently owned small businesses need our help right now, so give them a call and order for curbside pickup to enjoy while you’re out!
H...READ MORE!
The holidays are upon us, and with COVID-19 still affecting our daily lives, the many small businesses throughout McHenry County need our help. The best way to show some love to local small businesses is to grab unique gifts for everyone in your life. From the most popular new toys to gifts for craft beer lovers and fun stocking stuffers you will find some of the best gift ideas right here.
Gifts for Kids: These gifts will be at the top of Santa Cl...READ MORE!
Fall colors are beginning to reach their peak throughout McHenry County and Northern Illinois. To experience the best of them we suggest visiting the following 5 locations:
Photo: @emilykalinowski
Chain O' Lakes State Park
8916 Wilmot Road | Spring Grove
Chain O' Lakes is filled with river bluffs and gently sloping morainal hills that were deposited by Illinois' last glacier. The mixture of oak and hickory forests provide excellent views of fall f...READ MORE!
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but now that we're in Phase 4, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing eighteen destinations across Illinois. This week, we’re touring some of the state's best tacos! So pack up the family, bring your masks, and get ready for a road trip!
VISIT MCHENRY COUNTY
At La Huerta 5 you can find ...READ MORE!
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but now that we're in Phase 4, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing eighteen destinations across Illinois. This week, we’re touring some of the state's best pizza joints! So pack up the family, bring your masks, and get ready for a road trip!
VISIT MCHENRY COUNTY
Georgio's Pizza, ...READ MORE!
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but now that we're in Phase 4, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing eighteen destinations across Illinois. This week, we’re touring some of the state's best family fun activities and attractions. So pack up the family, bring your masks, and get ready for a road trip!
VISIT MCHENRY COUNTY
...READ MORE!
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but now that we're in Phase 4, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing eighteen destinations across Illinois. This week, we’re touring some of the state's best fish sandwiches! So pack up the family, bring your masks, and get ready for a road trip!
VISIT MCHENRY COUNTY
You can’t be...READ MORE!
Cover Photo Credit: Amiee Gricus-Reese, Stephanie Seliga, Aspen Danielle
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but now that we're in Phase 4, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing eighteen destinations across Illinois. This week, we’re touring some of the state's best geocaching spots! So pack up the family, bring your masks, and...READ MORE!
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but now that we're in Phase 4, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing eighteen destinations across Illinois. This week, we’re touring some of the state's best local breweries! So pack up the family, bring your masks, and get ready for a road trip!
VISIT MCHENRY COUNTY
Scorched Earth Bre...READ MORE!
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but now that we're in Phase 4, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing eighteen destinations across Illinois. This week, we’re touring some of the state's best Instagram spots! So pack up the family, bring your masks, and get ready for a road trip!
VISIT MCHENRY COUNTY
@visitmchenrycount...READ MORE!
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but now that we're in Phase 4, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing eighteen destinations across Illinois. This week, we’re touring some of the state's best ice cream spots! So pack up the family, bring your masks, and get ready for a road trip!
VISIT MCHENRY COUNTY
Julie Ann’s ...READ MORE!
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but as we hit the unofficial start of summer, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing eighteen destinations across Illinois. This week, we’re touring some of the state's must-see outdoor art! So pack up the family, bring your masks, and get ready for a road trip!
VISIT MCHENRY COUNTY
Woods...READ MORE!
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but as we hit the unofficial start of summer, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing eighteen destinations across Illinois. This week, we’re touring some of the state's best picnic spots! So pack up the family, bring your masks, and get ready for a road trip!
VISIT MCHENRY COUNTY
Pleasant V...READ MORE!
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but as we hit the unofficial start of summer, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing eighteen destinations across Illinois. This week, we’re touring some of the state's best fishing spots! So pack up the family, bring your masks, and get ready for a road trip!
VISIT MCHENRY COUNTY
...READ MORE!
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but as we hit the unofficial start of summer, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing eighteen destinations across Illinois. This week, we’re touring some of the state's farmers markets! So pack up the family, bring your masks, and get ready for a road trip!
VISIT MCHENRY COUNTY
The Woodstoc...READ MORE!
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but as we hit the unofficial start of summer, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing eighteen destinations across Illinois. This week, we’re touring some of the state's top golf courses! So pack up the family, bring your masks, and get ready for a road trip!
VISIT MCHENRY COUNTY
Chapel Hill...READ MORE!
National Donut Day is June 4th, and we are here for it! Whether you like a classic cake donut or long john, McHenry County has a donut shop that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Here is a list of some of the best donut shops in McHenry County, go out and celebrate by visiting each one.
Morkes Chocolates of Huntley | Huntley, IL
Most folks visit Morkes for their huge selection of handmade chocolate delights. Since 1920 Morkes Chocolates has made thei...READ MORE!
We’ve been “All In for Illinois” during the pandemic, but as we hit the unofficial start of summer, we’re ready to enjoy our state safely. Check-in every Tuesday for an Illinois Road Trip Round-Up on themed topics showcasing sixteen destinations across Illinois. This week, we’re bringing you the state’s top hiking and biking trails! So pack up the family, bring your masks, and get ready for a road trip!
VISIT MCHENRY COUNT...READ MORE!
No matter what brings you to McHenry County, outdoor recreation, a cultural experience, shopping or something else, at some point you're going to need to stop for refreshment. And because this is McHenry County, your meal is sure to be one of the highlights.
We have shared which restaurants are the best of the best, but we needed input from the locals to know what to order. Here are 13 local's top 5 restaurants and their go-to order at each.
Thank you t...READ MORE!
Celebrate the mothers in your life and support local business.
We know that your Mother's Day festivities may look a little different this year, but we wanted to put together a list of where you can get the best local gifts and to-go brunches to make her feel special.
Brunch at Home
750 Cucina Rustica
7 Jandus Rd
Cary, IL
847-829-4993
750cucinarustica.com
Family dinner for Four: $109.90
Rustic Italian Salad
Penne Vod...READ MORE!
We are proud of the fine products, art, foods, drinks and other things made right here in McHenry County!
If you're looking for unique gifts for your holiday wish list, our McHenry County Made Makers are the perfect fit. Here are a few of our holiday favorites from our very own makers:
For the Tea Lover
Casting Whimsy
203 Main St | Woodstock, IL
Back by popular demand is Casting Whimsy's Tea Advent Calendar. This box includes 24 samples o...READ MORE!
McHenry County, IL Scenic Roads
The Scenic Roads program was established to recognize both roads and the surrounding features that create their character (the road corridor). The program applies to all roads located in McHenry County, including city streets, residential streets, and rural roads. Completed application forms will be reviewed by the McHenry County Historic Preservation Commission. The Commission consists of representatives from throughout McHenry...READ MORE!
As many businesses begin the initial phases of reopening in McHenry County we ask that you be patient and support them! The owners and staff have had a difficult few months managing through closures and a complete change in how they run their businesses.
Here is how you can show your support:
1. Be patient
2. Share your experiences on social media
3. Review these businesses on their social channels and Google
4. Respect the guidelines that have been pu...READ MORE!
In honor of International Women’s Day this Sunday, March 8, Scorched Earth Brewing Co. in Algonquin, IL will be tapping their specially brewed Fierce FemALE, a West Coast IPA.
With women making up half of the Scorched Earth Family, they felt it only made sense to get them all together to brew a beer in honor of this day.
Brewed with the 2020 Pink Boots Blend of hops, a combination of Azacca, El Dorado, Idaho Gem, and Loral hops from Yakima Chi...READ MORE!
Theatre 121’s Production of Matilda The Musical
Theatre 121 presents Matilda The Musical at the historic Woodstock Opera House from March 6th-22nd.
Matilda – the Musical is based on the children’s novel of the same name by Roald Dahl and adapted by Dennis Kelly, with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin. The cast of 24 is under the direction of Jordan Rakittke (Artistic Director), Aaron Gomez (Assistant Director), Sa...READ MORE!
Take a drive in the country and put this address in your GPS:
3600 Garden Valley Road, Woodstock
It’s the best place to start your Autumn Drive adventures as neighbors offer antiques, crafts, food and fun. Local farms in rural McHenry County open their barns to offer you fall produce, honey, jams, soaps and vinegars for the 33rd year.
October 15 – 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine, in rural Woodstock and Marengo.&...READ MORE!
Tourism to McHenry County Contributing to Record Economic Growth in Illinois
McHenry County generated $8.32 million in local tax revenue and $256.33 million in visitor expenditures
Tourism spending increased by 3.6% in McHenry County in 2018 over the previous year, attracting $256.33 million in local spending and helping to contribute to record economic growth in the state, tourism officials said.
McHenry County’s tourism success is credited with...READ MORE!
McHenry County is home to the best fall family fun in the state! You’ll never have to look far to find farmland fun – plan an afternoon at an apple farm, get lost in a corn maze or find the perfect produce at one of our u-pick produce farms. You won’t find experiences like these in downtown Chicago.
Friday:
Arrive & check in: We have some pretty amazing accommodations in McHenry County! Looking for a comfortable hotel with all the...READ MORE!
Tucked into an unassuming building on an unassuming street in Woodstock is possibly one of the most unique cultural experiences you'll find in the Midwest. Potts & Pans, Chicagoland's largest steelpan organization, along with their not-for-profit organization, Culture, Arts & Music, provides steelpan entertainment and education
We know what you're thinking: calypso tunes and umbrella drinks. Imagine, instead, classical symphonies an...READ MORE!
See a water show like no other!
You may have seen water ski shows in other places. But we bet you've never seen anything like the Wonder Lake Water Ski Show Team. This 140-plus-member team, consisting of members ranging in ages 5 - 65, is a five-time National Show Ski Champion and has placed in the top five in the nation every year since 1996.
Grab a lawn chair or your favorite beach blanket and head out to Wonder Center Beach in Wonder Lake (located at H...READ MORE!
It's an American tradition, fireworks on the 4th of July!
Don't have plans yet? Check out our full list of every firework show in McHenry County this Independence Day!
Most shows begin at dusk.
Saturday, July 3
Wonder Lake 4th of July Celebration
Wonder Lake | E. Lakeshore Dr., Wonder Lake
Admission is free
Wonder Lake Water Ski Show Team performance at 4:30 PM followed by fireworks
Red White & Blue Food Truck FEASTival
Milky Way Pa...READ MORE!
Great events happen in McHenry County
Looking for McHenry County's best summer events? Well you're in luck, we are home to some of the best festivals the summer has to offer. Many are family friendly and some are perfect for a night out with friends. No matter what you're looking for, let us help you plan the ultimate summer right here in McHenry County!
June
Harvard Milk Days
June 3 - 5, 2022
Milky Way Park | 300 Lawrence Rd, Harvard
Don&...READ MORE!
Taste a local treat with a twist!
Julie Ann's Frozen Custard is a family-owned frozen custard shop and a McHenry County institution. Back in 1985, John and Mary Zielnicki started creating their hand-crafted custard recipe that is still used today!
What makes Julie Ann's so special is the quality of their ingredients and their custard that is made fresh several tiimes a day! The flavors have taken on a creative twist since grandson Pete and dau...READ MORE!
We pass popular tourist sites like Richardson Adventure Farm every day; we may not even think of how it supports our community. But Richardson Adventure Farm and others like The Quarry Cable Park, Woodstock Square, Raue Center for the Arts and the Illinois Railway Museum are the backbone of McHenry County. These places define our community, provide our families with jobs and have given us—and milions of visitors a lifetime of memories.
...READ MORE!
You’ve had ‘farm to fork’ – now try grain to glass
When you visit Rush Creek Distilling, you’ll probably drive right by some of the fields where local farmers grow the corn, wheat and rye that go into the craft spirits you’re about to enjoy.
Take one of Rush Creek’s popular distillery tours to appreciate everything that happens between the farmer harvesting the grain and the bartender pouring you a glass of whiskey, ...READ MORE!
We all scream for ICE CREAM!
Here are our top 10 favorite places to get an ice-cold treat! Whether you’re a fan of a classic chocolate vanilla twist or maybe a peanut butter puppy chow concrete you’ll find exactly what you’re craving at these stops!
10. Riverside Chocolate Factory
2102 W. Route 120
McHenry
815.344.6040
Riverside Chocolate Factory in McHenry is the place where chocolate dipped happiness begins. They are known for t...READ MORE!
Winter hibernation has ended, so it’s time to enjoy the spring and plan summertime fun in charming McHenry County. Get back outside and take in one of the Chicago area's best destinations. Whether a weekend getaway, or just a fun drive through the country, McHenry County offers the best of each season.
Spring weather is ideal for horseback riding, picnicking or observing abundant wildlife. McHenry County Conservation District maintains 25,021 acres of open...READ MORE!
The fifth day of March of each year shall be designated as the Day of the Horse, to be observed throughout the State of Illinois as a day to encourage citizens to honor and celebrate the role of equines in the history and character of Illinois, and to recognize the benefits of the equine industry to the economy, agriculture, tourism and quality of life in Illinois.
Learn more about the Equestrian Community in McHenry County and how you can experience it for your...READ MORE!
As Valentine's Day approaches we all start to think about how to spend this special day with our special someone! Whethere you're in town for a romantic getaway or you live near by here are a few ways to woo your sweetheart this Valentines Day!
Grab a bite to eat:
Duke's Alehouse & Kitchen - Gourmet comfort foods, artisan sandwiches and burgers all utilizing local and sustainable ingredients. Pair them with Duke's extensive beer ...READ MORE!
FROM OUR FRIENDS AT DINING DUSTER!
Stunning, old world charm with modern conveniences is how we would describe the Cherry Tree Inn Bed & Breakfast in Woodstock, IL. Made famous by a movie feature, the Cherry Tree B & B is more than a movie set. Built in the 1800’s, this nearly 7,000 Victorian home is owned and operated by George & Lori. George & Lori like to create experiences for their guests. This could include cocktails in the sitting room, a ...READ MORE!
1. Norge Ski Club – International Winter Tournament
January 29 & 30, 2022
At the Norge Ski Club in Fox River Grove, the party’s been going on for more than 110 years. This 150-foot ski jump rises high above the Fox River and offers a year-round training facility and competition venue for world-class athletes.
Want to know “How to Norge”? Click HERE to read our blog post!
2. Volo Auto Museum
27582 W. ...READ MORE!
Shopping small this holiday season is a win for everyone!
When you shop small you support a small business owner and their family, and you get to give a unique gift to a loved one! McHenry County is filled with quaint downtowns lined with one of a kind boutiques and shops! Let us give you the inside scoop on so you can make the most of your holiday shopping excursions!
Historic Woodstock Square -
Rich with Victorian architecture, this historic t...READ MORE!
From our friends at Chicago Foodie Sisters!
I’ve just returned from a fun whirlwind three-day FAM tour in McHenry County, Illinois where we visited a number of far northwest suburban communities and ate our way through each one.
Among them was Woodstock, where we stayed at an adorable bed and breakfast, The Cherry Tree Inn. (It’s the bed and breakfast that was featured in the movie “Groundhog Day” starring Bill Murray.) Our last stop of our ...READ MORE!
From our friend Sara at Travel with Sara:
There’s a whole lot of chocolate in McHenry County, Illinois. I recently spent a few days in this area right outside of Chicago and quickly learned that this is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. I’m not talking about a good old-fashioned, everyday run of the mill chocolate bar that you purchase at the local convenience store, I’m talking about “real” chocolate that is made in McH...READ MORE!
The holidays come to life in November and December in McHenry County. Visit The Raue Center for the Arts or The Woodstock Opera House for a show that will excite the senses and get everyone in the holiday spirit!
November 22 - December 8 - A Christmas Carol
Woodstock Opera House | Woodstock
Get the whole family into the Christmas Spirit at the Woodstock Opera House! Join Ebenezer Scrooge as he journeys through the Christmases of Past, Present and F...READ MORE!
We are proud of the fine products, art, foods, drinks and other things made right here in McHenry County! When you see our seal, it means you've found something first-class and McHenry County Made!
We have our first round of makers that you can learn about HERE, or continue reading to learn more about our newest makers!
Fruits, vegetables and meats used at Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen come from local and organic farms, eve...READ MORE!
From our friends at Dining Duster Blog:
During a press trip to McHenry County, Illinois we were most impressed with the vegan options that were available to us. If there’s one thing we’ve learned since switching to a vegan diet is that eating out can be a challenge, if not impossible to find a vegan option on the menu. Rest assured, there are plenty of vegan options in McHenry County, IL.
For reference, here is a map of McHe...READ MORE!
Explore the country’s FIRST apple tree maze
Royal Oak Farm Orchard is home to the country’s 1stapple tree maze, Amaze ‘N Apples! Wander through 1 ½ miles of walking trails while picking from nine different varieties of apples. When you find your way out, stop by the bakery for fresh apple cider doughnuts, find beautiful fall décor for your home or get an early start on Christmas shopping at the country gift store.
Pick ...READ MORE!
When the Richardson family sat down to brainstorm the theme for this year's gigantic corn maze, it wasn't an easy task. After all, the last three mazes each set new attendance records by celebrating the Chicago Cubs World Series, Chicago Black Hawks Stanley Cup and Star Trek's 50th Anniversary.
They finally selected Illinois' Bicentennial, honoring the 200th anniversary of the state's founding. Once that was done, the design came na...READ MORE!
Illinois Railway Museum -
Musing on how to spend the day? Get on the right track at the Illinois Railway Museum. Spend a few hours or an entire weekend seeing the education, restoration and preservation efforts of this museum in motion. Different trains run on different days, so check the website to line up your visit so you can ride a steam train, electric street car, diesel train or trolley bus!
Volo Auto Museum -
This is a car museum worth the tri...READ MORE!
Outdoor dining season is something everyone looks forward to! The weather is warm, the drinks are cold, and the views are unbelievable!
Let us walk you through the 10 most unique places to grab a bite and enjoy the outdoors!
The Quarry Cable Park & Grill
5517 Northwest Highway
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
New to the Quarry Cable Park is the Quarry Grill. Enjoy casual dining overlooking the Quarry Cable Park! Take advantage of these veiws all summer long and...READ MORE!
They're a big deal
You might not know it, but McHenry County has some of the best farmers markets in the state - literally. We're ranked. Our farmers markets are scattered all throughout McHenry County, and you can visit each and every one.
Cary Grove Farmers Market
Visitors will find fresh fruits and veggies, as well as specialty canned items, salad dressings and more. Stop in the first Sunday of the month for a free reusable bag. Located right of...READ MORE!
McHenry County offers the discerning sweets fiend many possibilities. The Swiss Maid Bakery specializes in European-style fine pastries, breads and desserts, and has been doing so for five generations. Konrad's Bakery has a variety of sweets that are almost too beautiful to eat - these are Instagram/Facebook/Pinterest-worth treats. At Mellie's Chocolates, you'll find the candies of your childhood along with amazing chocolate items for any occas...READ MORE!
McHenry County is the perfect place to plan your perfect day!
Whether you're looking for a rustic barn wedding, a fairytale garden wedding, or a classic wedding in a banquet hall, we have it all!
Start planning your big day today!
Venues:
Plan a fairy-tale garden wedding
Imagine your ideal garden wedding: You're strolling along a luminary-lit cobblestone path. The sounds of waterfalls provide a soothing cadence...READ MORE!
February 1 - 4, 2018
Woodstock, IL
It's time to party again and again and again in Woodstock, IL at the annual 2018 Woodstock Groundhog Days Festival!
2018 marks the 25th anniversary of the release of the classic film “Groundhog Day”, which was filmed in Woodstock. The weekend celebration kicks off on Thursday, February 1 with the Awakening of the Groundhog at the historic Woodstock Opera House. On Friday, February 2 at approximately 7:07 AM, Woods...READ MORE!
At the Norge Ski Club in Fox River Grove, the party’s been going on for almost 120 years. This 150-feet ski jump rises high above the Fox River and offers a year-round training facility and competition venue for world-class athletes. No snow? No problem. The plastic covering on the hill creates a slick surface, even on 90-degree days.
While the athletes practice quietly throughout the year, on competition days in January and September, thousands of spectators se...READ MORE!
Have the most unique gift at this year's festivities by shopping in some of McHenry County's small businesses!
Because we have so many amazing small businesses right here in McHenry County, we reached out to a variety of stores to get their suggestions on what they predict will be the best selling gifts for this holiday season!
Here is what they said:
Silver Prairie Natural Soap Company -
Woodstock, IL
Lather your loved one in a l...READ MORE!
In McHenry County, we are more than strip malls and big box stores. Our communities are filled with interesting, intriguing and sometimes even ingenious shops to fit your shopping personality. What kind of shopper are you? Use this list to help you create your ultimate holiday shopping list!
Treat yourself to a book (and a sweet)
Dreams do come true! Or, at least they do for Arlene Lynes, her knowledgable staff and all the dedicated customers of Read...READ MORE!
Beyond the gifts under the tree, part of what makes Christmas special are the family traditions involving the tree. Sure, you could bring up an artificial tree from the basement, but you can also visit a Christmas tree farm, smell the holiday scents of pine and balsam, maybe take a wagon ride to the distant corners of an orderly pine forest and choose exactly the right tree to serve as the centerpiece of your holiday decor. Fact is, we harvest more Christmas t...READ MORE!
October 14th is National Dessert Day, so here is a list of the top 10 places to satisfy your sweet tooth in McHenry County!
1. The Sugar Circle - Woodstock, IL
This quaint little shop just off the Woodstock Square is the perfect place to stop by for a sweet treat during the Farmer's Market, or for a gorgeous cake for your special day! They have all of your dessert needs covered! Owner Lauren Hamilton has loved to bake and is adventurou...READ MORE!
As you make your way through McHenry County you will find a breadth of small businesses that are thriving! One of the largest categories of small businesses in the county are coffee shops! Here are a few in different areas of the county where you can get the best cup of joe!
Aroma Coffee & Wine
77 E. Woodstock St. | Crystal Lake
815.513.5193
Aroma Coffee & Wine opened their doors inside a remodeled historic auto mechanic shop in do...READ MORE!
Taking food (and chocolate) forward
Bean to bar chocolatier, Ethereal Confections, does things because they are worth doing and because sanity comes before sounding cool. The company, co-founded by owners Sara Miller and brother and sister duo Michael and Mary Ervin, make bean-to-bar chocolate and confections from scratch ingredients which are dairy, gluten and soy-free. Yum!
The Woodstock Based Ethereal Confections has a food-foward cafe, as well as a speake...READ MORE!
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