Film in McHenry County

Where Stories Come to Life

Discover the Cinematic Heart of Northern Illinois

From the snow-covered charm of Groundhog Day to the suspense of Monsters Season 3, McHenry County, Illinois, has quietly served as the backdrop for major productions. Just 60 miles northwest of Chicago, this region offers a blend of rural tranquility, historic downtowns, and natural beauty that makes it an ideal location for filmmakers. 

Whether you need help securing a film permit, scouting locations, or navigating Illinois production logistics, our team streamlines the process from first inquiry to final wrap.

Proven Film & TV Location

McHenry County has attracted global brands and entertainment giants thanks to its unique look, film-friendly communities, and smooth logistics. Notable productions filmed here include:

  • Groundhog Day (1993)
  • Exes of Christmas Past (2025)
  • Netflix's Monster Season 3 (2025)
  • Amazon's Lightyears (2021)
  • Chicago Med (2025)
  • The Lakehouse (2006)
  • Commercials for Toyota, Jeep (Super Bowl), and Coca-Cola

Cinematic Settings & Filming Locations

Our location scouting services cover everything from historic downtowns and Midwestern neighborhoods to scenic outdoor landscapes and working farms, all within an hour of Chicago.

Browse Filming Locations
Browse Filming Locations

Submit Your Property as a Film Location

Do you own a home, farm, business, or structure that could appear on screen?

Add your property to our location database to be considered for upcoming film and TV productions.

Become a Filming Location

Local Services & Production Support

Need Help Sourcing Vendors?

Our team maintains a curated list of McHenry County vendors who are film-friendly and ready to assist. Contact us for referrals to streamline your planning. 

Vendor Sourcing

Illinois Film Production Tax Credit 

Producers filming in McHenry County are eligible for one of the most competitive film tax credits in the country. The Illinois Film Production Tax Credit, updated through SB 1911, offers the following benefits:

Tax Credit Highlights:

  • 35% credit on all qualified Illinois production spending, including:

    • Services from Illinois vendors

    • Tangible personal property used in production

  • 35% credit on Illinois resident salaries, up to $500,000 per worker

  • 30% credit on non-resident salaries, up to $500,000 per worker, for:

    • Up to 13 non-resident employees (excluding actors)

    • Plus 4–6 non-resident actors based on your Illinois spend

      • 4 actors: under $20 million

      • 5 actors: $20–$40 million

      • 6 actors: over $40 million

Additional Incentives:

  • 15% bonus on wages for workers in economically disadvantaged areas

  • 5% bonus on Illinois resident wages for productions filming outside McHenry, Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, and Will Counties

  • 5% bonus for certified green/sustainable productions

  • 5% bonus for television series relocating to Illinois

  • Carryforward available for 5 years

Scheduled for Renewal in 2039

The Illinois Film Tax Credit is legislatively secured through 2039, giving producers long-term confidence in filming here.

Questions?

Email: filmtaxcredit@illinois.gov

Illinois Film Tax Credit

Film Office

Get in Touch

Ready to film here? Let us help.

Contact the McHenry County Film Office

Naturally McHenry County 

(815) 893‑6280

sarah@naturallymchenrycounty.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the McHenry County Film Office?

The McHenry County Film Office is the official liaison for film, TV, and commercial productions filming in McHenry County, Illinois. We assist with location scouting, permitting, and connecting productions to local vendors and crew.

What is the Illinois Film Production Tax Credit?

Illinois offers a 35% tax credit on qualified production spending and Illinois resident wages, plus a 30% credit on non-resident salaries up to $500,000 per worker. The credit is secured through 2039 under SB 1911.

Read More

Can I include my property as a filming location?

Yes. Property owners with homes, farms, businesses, or unique structures can submit their property to our location database for consideration in upcoming productions by emailing sarah@naturallymchenrycounty.com.

Does McHenry County require a film permit?

Productions filming in McHenry County should contact the Film Office before shooting to coordinate permitting with the relevant municipality or property owner. Contact us at (815) 893-6280 or sarah@naturallymchenrycounty.com to start the process.

What has been filmed in McHenry County?

McHenry County has hosted major productions including Groundhog Day (1993), Netflix's Monster Season 3 (2025), Amazon's Lightyears (2021), Chicago Med, The Lakehouse (2006), and national commercials for Toyota, Jeep, and Coca-Cola.

Who do I contact to film in McHenry County?

Contact the McHenry County Film Office at (815) 893-6280 or sarah@naturallymchenrycounty.com to discuss scouting, permitting, and production support.