Woodstock Local History

Woodstock Illinois was founded in the 1840s when McHenry county was split in half and one half needed a new county seat. The town square was laid out in 1844 and became the focal point of the new town with the courthouse, school, church and city offices located near it. In February 1945, the town changed its name to Woodstock, after the Woodstock in Vermont, the hometown of early settlers to the USA.

The expansion of the railways caused the town to grow in prosperity, with many new businesses relocating to the town. Today, the town is rich in history, charm and tradition.

Woodstock Attractions

Top Attractions

Woodstock Parks & Gardens

Raintree Park Located at E. Lake Street, this park has a playground and picnic area.

Emricson Park The address of this park is 898 E South Street, it has picnic areas and a playground.

Olson Park This small park has its entrance at 1151 Clay Street and contains a playground for children.

Woodstock Restaurants and Bars

Woodstock Restaurants

Harvest Moon Cafe Located on the historic Woodstock Square, the Harvest Moon Café offers a fine dining experience you will remember for a long time. Renowned for its gourmet American cuisine including mixed grills, seafood and mouthwatering deserts, the selection is impressive. The address is 113 S.Benton Street; the restaurant is open Tuesdays to Saturdays for lunch and dinner.

Angelo's Restaurant Located at 117 Van Buren Street, Angelo's is a perfect choice for breakfast lunch or dinner. The restaurant is styled like a typical diner from the past and the prices are reasonable.

Green Garden For excellent Mandarin, Szechwan and Hunan Chinese dishes, this restaurant is a good choice especially if you are vegetarian. At lunchtime, you are invited to enjoy the buffet, which is excellent. The address is 1678 S.Eastwood Drive.

Woodstock Bars & Clubs

Gold Note Lounge For the best live music entertainment in town, head for the Gold Note Lounge, located in the former Waverly House Tavern at 214 Main Street. The lounge is open Friday and Saturday nights and features music styles ranging from blues and jazz to zydeco and reggae. If you are hungry you can get something to eat here as well.