Woodstock is a growing, vibrant, and diverse community with a rich history and strong values in culture, education, entrepreneurship, health, and environmental sustainability. First established in 1844 as Centerville—named for its central location in McHenry County and its role as the county seat—the city was renamed Woodstock in 1845. Over the years, Woodstock has earned prestigious honors, including being named an All America City (1964), a Certified City (1987), a National Trust Distinctive Destination (2007), and a Preserve America Community.

At the heart of Woodstock is the historic Woodstock Square, a centerpiece of the city’s Historic District and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Square is home to treasured landmarks like the Woodstock Opera House, which once hosted legends such as Orson Welles, Paul Newman, Betsy Palmer, Tom Bosley, Shelley Berman, Lois Nettleton, and Geraldine Page. Nearby, the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House underwent a major renovation and reopened in the fall of 2023 as the Old Courthouse Center. Today, it is home to a restaurant, the Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the visitor center for Naturally McHenry County, and an event space venue, Ethereal’s Courthouse Square, further enriching the Square’s cultural and economic vitality. Surrounding the Square, beautifully restored Victorian homes, many plaqued by the Historic Preservation Commission, showcase the city’s architectural charm and historic significance.

Today, Woodstock is home to 25,528 residents, 389 businesses, 25 churches, and 550 acres of parkland—all contributing to a community that values connection, tradition, and an exceptional quality of life.

The City of Woodstock is more than just a place—it’s a feeling. A city where residents are proud to call home and visitors can’t help but fall in love. Whether you're here for a day, a weekend, or a lifetime, we’re glad you’re here. Experience our arts and culture, shopping and dining, welcoming spirit, excellent schools, diverse housing, business opportunities, and nostalgic charm—and discover a million reasons to stay.

Welcome to Woodstock!

With a population of over 300,000, McHenry County is a vibrant part of the Chicago metropolitan area, offering a blend of rural charm and urban accessibility. As the county seat, Woodstock is at the heart of it all, with convenient interstate and Metra rail access. The McHenry County Economic Development Corporation supports business growth, while Naturally McHenry County highlights the area's rich tourism opportunities.

Woodstock is effortlessly accessible from downtown Chicago via the Metra Union Pacific/Northwest Line. With regular weekday and weekend service, the train offers a convenient and affordable way to reach our historic Square. Check the Metra schedule to plan your trip!

Prefer to drive? Whether you're coming from Chicago, Milwaukee, or Rockford, we’re just a short and scenic trip away. Click below for directions:
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