McHenry Brewing Co.

Explore

McHenry, Illinois

Three Downtown Districts. One Unforgettable Riverfront Experience. 

With three unique downtown districts to explore, the City of McHenry offers plenty to see, do and discover along the Fox River. Grab dinner and drinks on Green Street, browse local shops and waterfront restaurants along Riverside Drive, or take a stroll on the McHenry Riverwalk connecting it all together. Along the way, you’ll find scenic river views, Miller Point Park, the Riverwalk Shoppes and favorite local events like McHenry ShamROCKS the Fox and Light the Night. Just a short drive away, Main Street adds even more dining, entertainment and small-town charm to your visit.

Shop the McHenry Riverwalk Shoppes

A unique shopping experience along Boone Creek featuring small businesses and local artisans.

Discover All the Shoppes
Art for Adrienne

Art for Adrienne

Art for Adrienne is a McHenry County-based creative brand by artist Lauren Sharp, known for her hand-etched, one-of-a-kind fedoras crafted…

Curated by Laney Boutique

Curated by Laney Boutique

A woman-owned business specializing in elevated casual clothing. Pieces are curated based on style & comfort.

Hello Darling, Books & Beyond

Hello Darling, Books & Beyond

Hello Darling Books & Beyond Bookshop is for the LOVE, the SPICE and the GOOD GIRL in every reader. New Romance Books & More!

Nuqui Soaps

Nuqui Soaps

Welcome to Nuqi Soaps, where nature meets thoughtful self-care. Our products are handcrafted with carefully selected ingredients that…

Roots & Routes

Roots & Routes

At Roots & Routes, we specialize in creating beautifully handcrafted laser-engraved travel gifts that celebrate exploration, adventure, and…

Discover All the Shoppes

McHenry Events & Festivals

From riverfront celebrations to seasonal favorites, McHenry knows how to bring the community together year-round. Enjoy lively festivals, outdoor concerts, holiday celebrations and signature events like McHenry ShamROCKS the Fox and Light the Night. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or looking for something fun to do locally, McHenry’s event calendar is packed with experiences for every season.

View All
/4
Light the Night

Light the Night

McHenry Fiesta Days

McHenry Fiesta Days

McHenry ShamROCKS the Fox

McHenry ShamROCKS the Fox

McHenry Music Festival

McHenry Music Festival

Best Places to Eat in McHenry

From casual riverfront dining to locally loved pubs, cafes and upscale restaurants, McHenry offers something for every craving. Explore downtown favorites along Green Street, enjoy waterfront views near the Riverwalk or discover hidden gems throughout the city serving everything from comfort food to craft cocktails. Whether you’re stopping in for brunch, dinner or a night out, McHenry’s dining scene is full of flavorful local experiences.

View All
View All

Places to Stay in McHenry

Planning to stay the weekend? McHenry offers comfortable lodging options close to downtown dining, shopping, entertainment and the Fox River waterfront, making it easy to relax and explore everything the city has to offer.

Hampton Inn McHenry

Hampton Inn McHenry

  • 1555 South Route 31
  • (815) 578-1900

Enjoy a comfortable and convenient stay at Hampton Inn McHenry, perfectly located near some of the area’s best outdoor attractions. Just minutes away, guests…

Super 8 McHenry

Super 8 McHenry

  • 110 State Rt 31 South
  • 1-815-344-9200

Enjoy the comforts of home and convenience to three cities Chicago, IL, Rockford, IL, and Milwaukee, WI at our Super 8 McHenry hotel. Close to Crystal Lake and…

McHenry Guide Cover

Plan Your Trip to McHenry

 

Looking for even more ways to experience McHenry?

Browse the McHenry Visitor Guide for local attractions, events, restaurants and seasonal inspiration while planning your visit.

Traveling from the Chicago area? McHenry is easily accessible via the Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line, with a short drive connecting visitors to downtown McHenry and the Riverwalk.

McHenry Visitor Guide

City of McHenry Resources

From local government services to business development and community programs, the City of McHenry offers resources that support residents, visitors and local businesses throughout the community.

City of McHenry Logo

City of McHenry

333 S. Green St.
McHenry, IL 60050

City Hall serves as the center for local government services, community information and city operations.

Think McHenry

Think McHenry

815-363-2100

Think McHenry is the City of McHenry’s economic development initiative focused on supporting local businesses, attracting investment and encouraging new opportunities throughout the community. Businesses looking to relocate, expand or invest in McHenry can explore available resources, development opportunities and community partnerships through Think McHenry.

Shop & Dine McHenry

Shop & Dine McHenry

Shop & Dine McHenry encourages residents and visitors to support local restaurants, shops and businesses throughout the city. The program also features a rewards program that allows participants to earn perks while exploring and shopping locally in McHenry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is McHenry, Illinois located?

McHenry is a city in northwest Illinois, situated along the Fox River in McHenry County, about 50 miles from downtown Chicago. 

What county is McHenry, Illinois in?

McHenry is located in McHenry County, Illinois, which it shares its name with.

What is the population of McHenry, IL? 

McHenry's current population is approximately 28,825

What is McHenry, Illinois known for?

McHenry is known for its Riverwalk along the Fox River and Boone Creek, its three distinct downtown districts, exceptional community events like McHenry Shamrocks the Fox, and McHenry Music Festival, and its access to the Chain O' Lakes waterway system for boating and outdoor activities. 

What is there to do in McHenry, Illinois?

Visitors can explore the McHenry Riverwalk, shop and dine across three downtown districts, browse the seasonal McHenry Riverwalk Shoppes, boat or fish on the Fox River waterway, and catch live entertainment at venues like The Vixen. 

Is McHenry, Illinois a good weekend trip from Chicago?

Yes! About an hour drive from Chicago, McHenry works well as a weekend trip, combining a walkable riverfront downtown with boating, dining, and shopping along the Fox River.