Discover Illinois: Top Movies, TV Series and Books

From the bustling streets of Chicago to the quaint towns of Galena, Illinois has long served as a captivating backdrop for numerous films, TV shows, and books. Whether you’re a film enthusiast or a history buff, exploring these famous filming locations offers a unique way to experience the state’s rich cultural tapestry. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the cinematic wonders of Illinois, offering travel tips, trivia, and itinerary suggestions to help you plan your ultimate film-themed adventure.

Extraordinary Films Shot in Illinois

Illinois, with its diverse landscapes and iconic architectural structures, has been the setting for many renowned films. These cinematic masterpieces range from thrilling action flicks to moving dramas, all of which have utilized the state’s scenic beauty to create compelling visual narratives. Let’s take a look at some of the most famous films shot in Illinois that have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.

5 Blockbusters Made in Illinois

1. “The Blues Brothers” (1980): This cult classic, directed by John Landis, showcases Chicago’s vibrant music scene. The film features iconic shots of the city, including the Maxwell Street Market and the famous Dixie Square Mall car chase sequence.
2. “Home Alone” (1990): Set in the picturesque suburb of Winnetka, the McCallister’s house in this family favorite has become one of Illinois’ most recognized film landmarks.
3. “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (1986): This popular comedy, directed by John Hughes, captures the youthful spirit of Chicago. Iconic locations include the Art Institute of Chicago, Wrigley Field, and the Sears Tower (now Willis Tower).
4. “The Dark Knight” (2008): Christopher Nolan’s Batman epic utilized various Chicago locations to depict Gotham City, including the LaSalle Street financial district and the Lower Wacker Drive.
5. “The Fugitive” (1993): This thrilling action movie, starring Harrison Ford, features memorable scenes shot across Chicago, like the breathtaking dam jump filmed at the Cheoah Dam.

4 Illinois in Award-Winning Films

1. “Ordinary People” (1980): This Oscar-winning drama, directed by Robert Redford, was filmed in the North Shore suburbs of Lake Forest and Highland Park.
2. “The Untouchables” (1987): This crime drama about Al Capone’s reign over Chicago utilized historical buildings like the Chicago Cultural Center and Union Station for its memorable sequences.
3. “A League of Their Own” (1992): This beloved sports film, featuring scenes shot at the Wrigley Field, tells the story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during World War II.
4. “Hoosiers” (1986): This inspiring sports drama was filmed at various locations in Illinois, including the iconic gymnasium in Hickory.

6 TV Shows Set in Illinois

Illinois is not only a prime location for films but it also sets the stage for several TV shows. From crime dramas to comedies, these series capture unique aspects of the state’s culture and everyday life.

1. “Chicago Fire” (2012-present): This popular NBC drama focuses on the lives of firefighters and paramedics working at the Chicago Fire Department.
2. “Prison Break” (2005-2017): Much of this suspenseful series was filmed on location in Joliet, Illinois, using the old Joliet Correctional Center as the fictional Fox River State Penitentiary.
3. “The Good Wife” (2009-2016): This critically acclaimed legal drama, set in Chicago, was filmed on a specially constructed set in New York, but the show frequently used stock footage of the Windy City to establish its setting.
4. “Shameless” (2011-2021): Although primarily filmed in Los Angeles, this dark comedy-drama series is set in the South Side of Chicago. Several exterior scenes were shot on location to capture the authentic look and feel of the city.
5. “Roseanne” (1988-1997, 2018): This popular sitcom about a working-class family is set in the fictional town of Lanford, Illinois, believed to be based on Elgin.
6. “ER” (1994-2009): This long-running medical drama, set in Chicago, used the city as a backdrop, with many outdoor scenes filmed on location.

3 Animated Films Set in Illinois

Illinois’ charm and character have also been captured in the realm of animation. Although these films may not be physically shot in the state, they’re inspired by its distinctive locales and culture.

1. “The Iron Giant” (1999): This critically acclaimed animated film is set in the fictional town of Rockwell, which is believed to be based on various small towns in Illinois during the 1950s.
2. “Meet the Robinsons” (2007): The city of Todayland in this Disney film, with its blend of vintage and futuristic elements, draws inspiration from the architecture of Chicago.
3. “The Incredibles” (2004): The city of Municiberg, where the superhero Parr family lives, is said to be based on Chicago, with its skyline and elevated train tracks.

Famous Books Set in Illinois

The literary world also finds solace in the landscapes and cityscapes of Illinois. From classic novels to modern works, many authors have chosen Illinois as the setting for their stories.

Classic Books Set in Illinois

1. “The Jungle” by Upton Sinclair: This influential novel, set in the meatpacking industry of Chicago in the early 20th century, exposed the harsh conditions and exploited lives of immigrants in the United States.
2. “Spoon River Anthology” by Edgar Lee Masters: This collection of short, free verse poems is a series of epitaphs about the dead in the fictional small town of Spoon River, based on the Midwestern towns where Masters grew up.
3. “Native Son” by Richard Wright: This groundbreaking novel, set in 1930s Chicago, tells the story of 20-year-old African American Bigger Thomas, whose life spirals out of control after he kills a young white woman.

Contemporary Books Set in Illinois

1. “The Time Traveler’s Wife” by Audrey Niffenegger (2003): This unconventional romance novel alternates between Clare’s life in the suburbs of Chicago and Henry’s spontaneous time-traveling adventures.
2. “The Corrections” by Jonathan Franzen (2001): This award-winning novel focuses on the Lambert family of the fictional town of St. Jude, Illinois, and their individual struggles.
3. “Divergent” by Veronica Roth (2011): This popular young adult dystopian novel is set in a futuristic version of Chicago, where society is divided into five factions based on human virtues.

Exploring Illinois Filming Locations – Where to Go

When in Illinois, one must seize the opportunity to visit the famous filming locations that have served as the backdrop for numerous iconic scenes. These are the places that have brought our favorite stories to life, and visiting them can feel like stepping into a movie.

1. Chicago’s Lower Wacker Drive: Featured in films like “The Dark Knight” and “The Blues Brothers”, this multi-level street offers a unique view of the city’s architectural grandeur.
2. The Art Institute of Chicago: This world-renowned museum, featured in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”, houses a vast collection of artworks, making it a must-visit for art and film enthusiasts alike.
3. The Home Alone House in Winnetka: The McCallister’s house from “Home Alone” is one of the most famous film homes in the world. While the interiors were filmed on a soundstage, the exteriors were shot at this Winnetka home.
4. The Illinois Railway Museum in Union: This railway museum, one of the largest in the United States, has been featured in several films and TV shows, including “A League of Their Own”.
5. The Sixteen Candles Church in Evanston: The First Congregational Church of Evanston, where the final wedding scene in “Sixteen Candles” was filmed, is a beautiful, historic structure worth a visit.
6. The Hill Valley Clock Tower in Woodstock: This iconic location from the “Groundhog Day” movie is actually the Woodstock Square Historic District. The town even celebrates Groundhog Day annually with a week-long event.
7. Joliet Correctional Center: The old Joliet Correctional Center, featured in “Prison Break”, offers guided tours that provide a glimpse into the history of this imposing structure.

Where to Sleep in Illinois

After a long day of exploring, you’ll need a cozy place to rest your head. Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, Illinois offers a range of lodging options to suit every traveler’s needs.

Budget Accommodations

1. Chicago Getaway Hostel: Located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, this hostel offers dormitory-style rooms and private suites at budget-friendly rates.
2. HI Chicago Hostel: This hostel, located in the heart of downtown Chicago, offers affordable accommodation with easy access to many of the city’s top attractions.
3. Days Inn by Wyndham Springfield: This budget hotel, located in the state capital, offers clean rooms and a complimentary breakfast, making it a convenient and affordable place to stay.

Luxury Accommodations

1. The Langham, Chicago: This luxury hotel, located in a skyscraper designed by renowned architect Mies van der Rohe, offers stylish rooms and a wellness spa.
2. The Peninsula Chicago: This five-star hotel, located in the Magnificent Mile neighborhood, offers elegant rooms, several dining options, and a rooftop lounge with stunning city views.
3. Four Seasons Hotel Chicago: This luxury hotel, located steps away from the shopping and dining of the Magnificent Mile, offers a full-service spa, an indoor pool, and rooms with city or lake views.

Where to Eat in Illinois

Illinois’ food scene is as diverse as its cinematic landscape. From high-end dining to budget-friendly eateries, the state offers a culinary experience to match every palate and budget.

Budget Eats

1. Portillo’s: Known for their Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches, Portillo’s is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Chicago fast food.
2. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria: This iconic pizzeria is famous for its deep-dish pizza, a Chicago specialty. With several locations throughout Illinois, it’s a budget-friendly option for a filling meal.
3. Johnnie’s Beef: Located in Elmwood Park, Johnnie’s Beef offers some of the best Italian beef sandwiches in the state. It’s a no-frills spot with budget-friendly prices.

Luxury Dining

1. Alinea: This three-Michelin-star restaurant in Chicago is known for its innovative and artistic cuisine. It’s an upscale dining experience that’s worth the splurge.
2. Spiaggia: Offering stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Magnificent Mile, Spiaggia serves high-end Italian cuisine in an elegant setting.
3. Topolobampo: Owned by celebrity chef Rick Bayless, Topolobampo offers gourmet Mexican cuisine in a sophisticated setting in downtown Chicago.

Detailed Itinerary Day by Day

To help you make the most of your film-themed trip to Illinois, we’ve prepared a detailed itinerary that covers the state’s must-visit filming locations, eateries, and accommodations.

Day 1: Chicago

• Start your day at the Art Institute of Chicago, featured in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”.
• Visit the Lower Wacker Drive, the iconic location from “The Dark Knight”.
• Have lunch at Portillo’s, famous for its Chicago-style hot dogs.
• In the afternoon, explore the locations from “The Blues Brothers”, including the Dixie Square Mall and the Maxwell Street Market.
• Check into your hotel, either the budget-friendly Chicago Getaway Hostel or the luxurious Langham, Chicago.
• Enjoy dinner at Topolobampo, one of Chicago’s top upscale restaurants.

Day 2: Winnetka and Evanston

• Visit the Home Alone house in Winnetka.
• Have lunch at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria in Winnetka.
• In the afternoon, head to Evanston to visit the Sixteen Candles church.
• Check into the Hilton Orrington/Evanston, a comfortable and conveniently located hotel.
• Enjoy dinner at Oceanique, an upscale French-American seafood restaurant in Evanston.

Day 3: Union and Woodstock

• Visit the Illinois Railway Museum in Union.
• Have lunch at Clasen’s Tavern, a local favorite in Union.
• In the afternoon, head to Woodstock to visit the filming locations from “Groundhog Day”.
• Check into the Best Western Woodstock Inn, a budget-friendly hotel with comfortable rooms.
• Enjoy dinner at Public House of Woodstock, offering delicious American fare in a historic setting.

Day 4: Joliet and Beyond

• Visit the old Joliet Correctional Center, featured in “Prison Break”.
• Have lunch at Johnnie’s Beef in nearby Elmwood Park.
• In the afternoon, head to Springfield to visit the Illinois State Capitol, which has been used in several films and TV shows.
• Check into the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield, a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, for a comfortable stay.
• Enjoy dinner at Nick & Nino’s Penthouse Steakhouse in Springfield for a luxurious dining experience.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Just like the film industry, Illinois is rich in local legends and curiosities. From the mysterious Piasa Bird to the elusive Big Muddy Monster, the state has its share of cryptids – creatures whose existence is disputed or unsubstantiated.

The Piasa Bird, a Native American legend, is said to be a dragon-like beast that once terrorized the Illini tribe. Today, a large mural of the Piasa Bird can be found on the bluffs along the Mississippi River in Alton, Illinois.

The Big Muddy Monster, on the other hand, is a Sasquatch-like creature reportedly sighted in the Murphysboro area in the 1970s. The creature was never captured, but reports of its sightings still capture the imagination of locals and visitors alike.

Hidden Gems in Illinois

Beyond the famous filming locations, Illinois boasts several hidden gems that offer unique experiences for the discerning traveler.

1. Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford: This beautiful garden, with its tranquil landscapes and traditional tea house, offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
2. Galena’s Historic Main Street: Lined with more than 100 19th-century storefronts, Galena’s Main Street offers a charming blend of antique shops, art galleries, and cozy restaurants.
3. Cave-in-Rock State Park: This picturesque park, located in southern Illinois, is home to a massive river pirate cave that has been featured in several films and TV shows.
4. The Super Museum in Metropolis: Home to the world’s largest collection of Superman memorabilia, this museum is a must-visit for comic book enthusiasts.
5. The Bahá’í­ House of Worship in Wilmette: One of only eight Bahá’í­ temples in the world, this beautiful structure offers a peaceful retreat for reflection and prayer.

What to Pack for a Trip to Illinois

When packing for your trip to Illinois, consider the season and activities you plan to do. If you’re visiting during winter, pack warm clothes and shoes suitable for walking in snow. During summer, lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. Don’t forget to pack a camera to capture your favorite filming locations and a portable charger to keep your devices powered up.

For the fashion-forward traveler, Illinois offers a blend of midwestern casual and urban chic. In Chicago, you can dress up for a night out on the town, while in smaller towns and rural areas, casual attire is perfectly acceptable.

Transportation Tips

Getting around Illinois is relatively easy, thanks to its well-maintained roads and public transportation. If you’re traveling to multiple cities or towns, renting a car would be the most convenient option. Within cities like Chicago, using public transportation like the CTA trains and buses, or ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, can be more convenient and cost-effective.

Travel Documents Needed

Before embarking on your journey, ensure you have all the necessary travel documents. These include a valid ID or driver’s license for domestic travelers, and a valid passport for international travelers. If you’re renting a car, don’t forget your driver’s license and proof of insurance.

From the cinematic streets of Chicago to the charming small towns, Illinois offers a film-themed adventure unlike any other. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to discover the famous films shot in Illinois and beyond. Lights, camera, action – your Illinois adventure awaits!