23 Movies Filmed in ILLINOIS (Thrilling, Fun, & Engaging)

Before the lights, cameras, and action, much work goes into finding the ideal location to film a movie.

Nestled in the heart of the United States, the picturesque state of Illinois has provided the perfect backdrop for different cinematic masterpieces.

From charming small towns to quiet suburbs and bustling metropolises, the city’s diverse landscape has played an essential role in bringing to life some of the most iconic scenes you love to watch on the silver screen.

So, grab your popcorn and prepare for a wild ride into the exciting universe of Hollywood through the eyes of the Prairie State.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Movie Theaters in Illinois.

Movies filmed in Galena, Illinois

1. Field of Dreams (1989) (Magical Baseball Journey)

The 1989 classic follows the life and dream of Ray Costner, a novice farmer living with his wife and daughter in rural Iowa.

Troubled by his estranged relationship with his father, a devout baseball fan, Ray fears dying without achieving anything.

While on an evening walk through his cornfield, he sees a vision of a baseball diamond and hears a voice encouraging him to build it.

The voice whispers, “If you build it, he’ll come,” – implying that building a baseball field will help him repair his relationship with his father.

Spoiler alert, it does!

In the movie, Ray is magically transported to 1972, where he visits a local newspaper office in Chisholm, Minnesota.

This scene was filmed on the Champagne on Main Street.

To date, tourists still share in the excitement by participating in the Field of Dreams walking tour in Downtown Galena.

When next you visit, be sure to share in this historical experience!

Movie rating (IMDB): 7.5/10

Filming Location: 116 S Main St.

2. Driftless (2020) (Park Rangers’ Challenges)

Directed by Harper Philbin, Driftless is an independent film that gives an interesting insight into national parks and park rangers.

The film follows the story of park rangers led by Nova Abbey.

Nova must work with other rangers to ensure the safety of the park after the Government shut down the Driftless State Park on the 4th of July weekend.

In addition to protecting the park, the Rangers must protect the visitors who remain there.

As conflict and tensions rise between factions, the rangers must weather these challenges to ensure everybody’s safety.

Will they succeed?

The movie explores various themes cutting across different socio-political issues, from racism to environmental pollution.

This drama-packed film highlights the delightful outdoors and landscapes that define the city of Galena.

Are you a lover of nature and the outdoors?

Then be sure to check out this award-winning feature film!

Movie Rating (IMDB): 5.5/10

Filming Location: Galena, IL.

Also see our article on Attractions in Illinois.

Movies filmed in Aurora, Illinois

1. The Express: The Ernie Davis Story (2008) (Football, Racism & History)

Produced by John Davis and directed by Gary Fleder, this American sports classic is based on the life of Syracuse University football player Ernie Davis.

Ernie grew up in Pennsylvania with his mother, uncle, and extended family.

After moving with his mother to New York, Ernie starts playing football and excels as a running back.

His talents put him in the path of Syracuse head coach Ben Schwartzwalder who convinces him to enroll and play for the school.

Ernie Davis was the first African American person to win the Heisman Trophy.

However, Ernie’s professional career ended before he could play in the NFL after his leukemia diagnosis.

The movie explores athletics and critical civil rights issues, such as discrimination and racism in 1940s America.

Interestingly, the Express was also the film debut of the late Chadwick Boseman.

Primarily filmed in Illinois, the Express highlights famous landmarks in Aurora, like the L.D. Brady Elementary School.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 7.2/10

Filming Location: 600 Columbia Street, Aurora, IL

2. Children on Their Birthdays (2002) (1947 Love Triangle)

Children on Their Birthdays is an independent film based on a short story of the same title written by Truman Capote.

Set in the summer of 1947, the movie is a coming-of-age story that explores true friendship, dreams, and young love.

It follows the story of a 13-year-old girl, Lily Jane Bobbit, who moved to Medda, Alabama, with her mute mother.

Within a short period, young Lily had woven her way into the hearts and imaginations of the residents of Medda.

In addition to winning over the residents, Lily became the love interest of two best friends – Billy Bob Murphy and Preacher Star.

Determined to win her attention, Billy and Preacher must put their friendship on the line, as only one can end up with Miss Lily Jane Bobbit.

The award-winning movie was predominantly shot in Aurora, and other scenes were shot in Chicago and Lemont.

If you want a coming-of-age movie for all ages, be sure to check it out!

Movie Rating (IMDB): 6.3/10

Filming Location: Aurora, Illinois

3. Chasing Gold (2016) (Retiring Cop’s Quest)

Chasing Gold is a crime-drama thriller that tells the story of Frank Walsh, a retiring Police commander.

After losing his family in an accident, Frank discovers that he has a daughter, Judy, from a past relationship.

On that same night, Frank learns about the death of his best friend, who was murdered and robbed of a cache of gold.

He must now find the killer, recover the stolen gold, and help his daughter in her struggles with addiction.

Intriguing, right?

Chasing Gold, also known as Precious Mettle, incorporates elements of drama and mystery in an intriguing crime whodunit designed to keep you glued to your screen.

This intriguing thriller was shot predominantly in the City of Lights and its environs, beautifully portraying the essence of Illinois.

So, if you’re looking to enjoy a crime thriller with a touch of mystery, be sure to add this movie to your watch list.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 6.5/10

Filming Location: Aurora, IL.

Also see our article on Indoor Activities in Illinois.

Movies filmed in Chicago, Illinois

1. Shameless (2011 – 2021) (South Side Family)

Are you looking for a TV show with an exciting mix of drama and rib-cracking comedy?

Look no further than Shameless, a heart-gripping satire that ran for over ten years, becoming the longest-running original scripted series in Showtime history.

Set in the South Side of Chicago, the show perfectly captures growing up in lower-class America.

Shameless follows the story of a dysfunctional Irish-American family, the Gallaghers, as they navigate life with a drunk and selfish patriarch.

The eldest daughter, Fiona, is forced to take on the role of a parent and help her five younger siblings deal with life on the South Side of Chicago.

Each episode takes you on a crazy adventure that one or more of the Gallaghers get into while trying to make the most of the little they have.

Although the show wasn’t filmed in Chicago, many scenes were shot in the Windy City.

For example, the Gallagher home is a real Chicago home located at 2119 South Homan Ave, Chicago.

Most of the series’ exterior shots captured Chicago’s authenticity to create a realistic image of living and growing up in the city.

If you decide to binge the 11-season series, you can schedule a trip to see some of the set locations in Chicago.

You’ll definitely be in for a treat!

Movie Rating (IMDB): 8.6/10

Filming Location: Chicago, IL.

2. The Blues Brothers (1980) (Musical Mission for Orphans)

The Blues Brothers is a classic American musical comedy film directed by John Landis.

Set in and around Chicago, the movie takes you on a wild ride throughout the city, capturing the city’s essence and soul.

It is a tale of redemption for paroled petty criminal Jake and his brother Elwood.

The duo set out on a “mission from God” to stop the foreclosure of the orphanage where they were raised.

To achieve this, they must reunite their R&B band and perform a big gig to raise the $5,000 needed to pay off the orphanage’s property tax bill.

As they set out on their mission, they encounter multiple challenges while being hunted by the Police.

The movie features musical numbers by R&B, soul, and blues singers such as Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Ray Charles, and John Lee Hooker.

Blues Brothers is credited as the movie that popularized Chicago as a major filming location.

It highlights various landmarks in the city, such as the Ray’s Music Exchange, Jackson Park, and Soul Food Café.

So, you can go on an outing to the Windy City and see these spots yourself.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 7.9/10

Filming Location: Chicago, IL

3. Divergent (2014) (Dystopian Chicago Action)

As a movie at the core of Chicago, Divergent will take you on an exhilarating ride through a dystopian and post-apocalyptic world.

Divergent (2014) is an action-packed science fiction movie that captivates the audience and leaves you wanting more.

Produced by Douglas Wick, Pouya Shahbazian, and Lucy Fisher, the movie was adapted from a 2011 novel of the same name written by Veronica Roth.

Set in a dystopian world where people are divided into factions to maintain peace and order, the movie follows the life of Beatrice Prior.

During the aptitude test, Beatrice learns she’s divergent and can’t completely fit into any factions.

However, at the choosing ceremony, she ultimately picks Dauntless – the fearless faction who work as protectors of the nation.

Subsequently, Tris learns about a devious plot to kill all divergents.

She must work with Four and her other comrades to discover what makes divergents dangerous before it’s too late.

Shot predominantly in Chicago, the film captures the excellence of the Windy City.

From the choosing ceremony scenes shot at Seventeenth Church of Christ to the Abnegation sector constructed on Wells Street in downtown Chicago.

With amazing enhancements to give the movie its dystopian feel, Divergent is a cinematic treat for all action and sci-fi fans.

Grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy!

Movie Rating (IMDB): 6.6/10

Filming Location: Chicago, IL

4. Home Alone (1990) (Classic Holiday Pranks)

Every Holiday, Network TV stations and individuals alike pop in this Christmas classic and enjoy the familiar pranks of Kevin McCallister.

Rated PG, Home Alone is the perfect movie for the family during the holiday season.

The movie follows the adventure of young Kevin, who defends his home from burglars.

After his family accidentally leaves him behind on their Christmas vacation, Kevin must resort to clever pranks and booby traps to protect his home from the Wet Bandits.

Unlike the Shameless TV series that shows you lower-class America, Home Alone depicts the Windy City from the perspective of the upper class.

Shot predominately in Winnetka, a small suburb of Chicago, the movie shows you what it’s like being a part of the Chicago suburban community with large homes and lush green lawns.

In addition to rib-cracking comedy, Home Alone takes you on a visual journey through some of the most beautiful locations in the Windy City.

After enjoying this timeless classic, you can go on an excursion and explore the diverse architecture in suburban Chicago.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 7.7/10

Filming Location: Chicago, IL

Also see our article on Acting Classes in Illinois.

Movies Filmed in Woodstock, Illinois

1. Groundhog Day (1993) (Time Loop & Small Town)

You’ve heard of and watched movies about time travel, right?

How about being stuck in a time loop and forced to relive the same day… over and over and over?

Prepare to relive the story of Phil Connors, a cynical television weatherman sent to cover the annual Groundhog Day event – which he didn’t particularly want to do.

After experiencing the 2nd day of February multiple times, Phil realizes he’s stuck in a time loop, and others seem oblivious.

At first, he uses his new reality to promote his selfish interests and uses his knowledge of the day’s activities to manipulate circumstances.

However, the unkind realization that he’s doomed to spend the rest of his life in a loop finally dawns on him, pushing him into depression and attempting suicide on multiple occasions.

Desperate to escape the loop, he results to using this opportunity to get things right.

Shot exclusively in Woodstock, Groundhog Day captures the town’s “big city” aesthetic – a metropolitan area with highway access.

The town also captured the winter scenery and timeless quality that the producers sort.

Groundhog Day has become an integral part of Illinois, and to this day, visitors can take a tour to see its filming locations.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 8.0/10

Filming Location: Woodstock, IL

2. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987) (Thanksgiving Travel Chaos)

No better way to spend Thanksgiving than with the family.

What then happens when an Act of God prevents you from going home?

The 1987 comedy film written, produced, and directed by John Hughes tells the story of Neal Page, an advertising executive trying to make his way home for Thanksgiving.

After a lengthy meeting, Neal had difficulties getting a taxi, and his flight home was canceled due to a blizzard.

At the airport, he meets Del Griffith, a clumsy shower-curtain-ring salesman, and the duo begin their journey to Chicago – traveling by rail and road.

Shot predominately in New York, the movie also features scenes from the Land of Presidents, including Braidwood and Woodstock.

Illinois offered locations for some of the iconic internal scenes of the movie.

Overall, the 1987 Thanksgiving classic is a timeless holiday movie suitable for the whole family.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 7.6/10

Filming Location: Braidwood and Woodstock, IL

3. Night Sky (2022) (Interplanetary Chaos)

Are you a science fiction fan who enjoys interplanetary travel?

Then, this series is perfect for you.

With a star-studded cast including J.K Simmons, Sissy Spacek, Adam Bartley, Chai Hansen, Stephen Louis Grush, and Sonya Walger.

Night Sky follows the lives of a couple, Franklin and Irene York, who discover a chamber in their backyard that mysteriously leads to a strange, deserted planet.

The Yorks jealously guarded their secret until they were approached by an enigmatic young man, and their peaceful lives as they knew it became a yarn ball of chaos.

Created by Holden Miller, the Night Sky was predominantly shot in Illinois, with some scenes in Argentina.

Although the series has a great plot and a fantastic cast ensemble, it was canceled after the first season due to low viewership.

Nonetheless, you still have the opportunity to enjoy the epic albeit short story that will keep you wanting more.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 7.4/10

Filming Location: Woodstock, IL

Also see our article on Outdoor Activities in Illinois.

Movies Filmed in Champaign, Illinois

1. Consumed II (2015) (Politics, Food & Thriller)

Consumed II is what you get when you mix politics, food, and science to create an exciting motion picture.

The award-winning movie tells three interwoven stories of an organic farmer on the brink of losing his farm, a business executive struggling with his son’s autism, and two scientists on the verge of a major breakthrough.

Written by Daryl Wein and Zoe Lister-Jones and directed by Daryl Wein, the thriller drama revolves around the life of a single mother on a journey to find the cause of her son’s mysterious sickness.

Set in the world of genetically modified organisms, the movie was exclusively shot in different parts of Champaign, Illinois.

The movie gives a unique look into the city’s scenes.

Sit back, grab your popcorn, and enjoy 97 minutes of fantastic storytelling.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 5.6/10

Filming Location: Champaign, IL.

2. With Honors (1994) (Thesis Mishap & Odd Friendship)

The comedy-drama follows the life of Monty, a student at Harvard University.

Monty believed that his thesis would help him graduate with honors.

But, his ambitions hit a snag when his computer crashes, and he’s left with only one copy of his thesis.

He stumbles and drops it down a grate on his way to make copies.

This uncomfortable situation puts him at the mercy of Simon, a homeless man who recovered the thesis.

So, to save his academic life, Monty is forced to make a deal with Simon, who offers a page of the thesis for every day Monty houses and feeds him.

Their unlikely relationship becomes a beautiful friendship and helps Monty get a more optimistic approach to life.

The classic comedy-drama features scenes from various locations nationwide, including Illinois, Massachusetts, Indiana, and Minnesota.

It highlights notoriously popular locations, like the University of Illinois and the Northwestern Law School.

The final scene of the movie also features students from Illinois University.

So, whether you are an Illinois native or enjoy classic comedy movies, you can’t go wrong with this classic film.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 6.7/10

Filming Location: Champaign, IL

3. The Lord is Not on Trial Here Today (2010) (First Amendment Triumph)

This Emmy and Peabody award-winning documentary is a story of one of the most important First Amendment cases in the U.S. Supreme Court – McCollum v. Board of Education.

Her case established the separation of the state from the church in American public schools.

The Lord is Not on Trial Here Today tells the story of Vashti McCollum’s efforts to protect her son and prevent schools from using public funds to promote religion in public schools.

This documentary carries the audience through the three-year legal drama of Vashti McCollum challenging society and local laws and courts.

The case finally ended when the Supreme Court vindicated her position through an 8-1 decision, preventing school boards nationwide from using school resources, time, or funds to promote religion.

Shot entirely in Illinois, the documentary is a testament to the resilience of the Illinois people.

So, if you’re a fan of documentaries, be sure to check this one out!

Movie Rating (IMDB): 7.6/10

Filming Location: Champaign, IL

4. Mission: Impossible (1996) (Spy, Betrayal & Action)

Prepare to enter the action-packed world of American spy Ethan Hunt, characterized by betrayal, undercover missions, and patriotism.

Based on the hit TV series of the same name, the movie tells the story of Ethan Hunt, who accompanies his colleagues on a mission to Prague.

Unfortunately, the mission was a catastrophic failure that resulted in the death of all the participants except Hunt.

After reporting the mission’s failure, Hunt learns it was a plot to find the mole in the IMF.

He also realizes that he’s being suspected as the mole and culprit of the failed mission.

To clear his name, Hunt uses unorthodox methods to find the real culprit and vindicate himself.

Shot in various locations across the globe, the movie also features scenes filmed in Illinois.

Scenes were filmed in different throughout Illinois, including Champaign and Chicago.

The award-winning movie is a top choice for anyone who enjoys action thrillers with high-adrenaline scenes.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 7.1/10

Filming Location: Champaign, IL

Also see our article on Family Activities in Illinois.

Movies Filmed in Evanston, Illinois

1. Dennis the Menace (1993) (Neighbor vs. Mischievous Kid)

Imagine your next-door neighbor is a sweet five-year-old kid who tries to help out but somehow makes everything worse.

Frustrating, right?

Well, that’s the painful reality of the retired Mr. Wilson, Dennis’s next-door neighbor.

His reality worsens when Dennis’ parents travel, and the boy has to stay with him for a couple of weeks.

Dennis’ helpful yet destructive nature further lands him in trouble when he ends up as the unsuspecting hostage of a petty thief who stumbles into town.

The 1993 comedy movie is an amazing, feel-good film suitable for the whole family.

Directed by Nick Castle, the movie features scenes shot throughout Illinois.

The simple yet elegant cinematography highlights suburban Illinois in all its beauty, showcasing landmarks that still exist today.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 5.6/10

Filming Location: Evanston, IL

2. Sixteen Candles (1984) (Sweet Sixteen Gone Wrong)

Sixteen Candles is the directorial debut of veteran director John Hughes.

The movie has an elite player cast, including Molly Ringwald, Justin Henry, Anthony Michael, Michael Schoeffling, Paul Dooley, and Carlin Glynn.

Set in Suburban Chicago, the coming-of-age movie tells the story of Samantha Baker on one of the most important dates in her life – the day of her sixteenth birthday.

Sam’s sweet sixteen celebration leaves a bitter taste in her mouth after her family members forget her birthday.

The day worsens as she faces bouts of embarrassment throughout the day.

If you enjoy coming-of-age stories or are a fan of teenage dramas, then this film is right up your aisle.

The movie captures the essence of the City of Presidents with its dynamic culture and broad scenes.

It makes you feel close to the city and helps you experience the spirit of Illinois.

So, what are you waiting for?

Grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy!

Movie Rating (IMDB): 7.0/10

Filming Location: Evanston, IL

3. She’s Having a Baby (1988) (Newlyweds’ Challenges)

When you hear wedding bells, do you have to answer?

More importantly, what should you have done before you’re ready to say “I do.”

She’s Having a Baby is another John Hughes film, and if you can’t tell by now, he does enjoy filming in and around Illinois.

The movie tells the story of young newlyweds and their struggles to navigate the terrain of marriage and building a future together.

With a star-studded cast incorporating Kevin Bacon, Elizabeth McGovern, Alec Baldwin, Larry Hankin, John Ashton, Holland Taylor, and Cathryn Damon, She’s Having a Baby is a simple yet moving story that features an interesting blend of gimmicks.

Shot in and around Illinois, the film highlights some of the landmarks in the city, such as the Winnetka Congregational Church, the Field Museum of Natural History, and Glencoe Metra Station.

Hughes uses this movie to discuss an important theme in a light-hearted and easy manner, educating while entertaining the audience.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 5.9/10

Filming Location: Evanston, IL.

Also see our article on Picnic Spots in Illinois.

Movies Filmed in Springfield, Illinois

1. Bad Teacher (2011) (Comedy, Teaching & Romance)

What do you do when one of your options suddenly becomes your only choice?

Prepare to join the unfortunate world of Elizabeth Halsey, who is forced to work as a middle school teacher after her rich fiancé breaks up with her for being a gold digger.

Elizabeth is an awful educator, but luck shines when she learns that Scott, the big breasts-loving substitute teacher, is wealthy.

She resolves to raise $10,000 for silicone implants to seduce Scott.

To achieve her goal, Elizabeth is forced to take her job seriously after learning that the teacher with the highest state exam scores would receive a bonus.

Set in Chicago, the movie features scenes shot in different states, including California and Illinois.

With a cast including Cameron Diaz, Justine Timberlake, Jason Segel, Lucy Punch, John Michael Higgins, Phyllis Smith, and Dave Allen, Bad Teacher is a simple comedy that entices the audience and evokes quick laughs.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 5.6/10

Filming Location: Springfield, IL.

2. Dwellers (2021) (Horror & Found Footage)

Fun fact, Dwellers is the first movie from the studio house Ellefson Films, led by David Ellefson, who plays himself in the movie.

The movie tells the story of a crew contracted to produce a documentary about people experiencing homelessness for a production house, but they fail to deliver.

Faced with the threat of a lawsuit, Drew, the head of the documentary crew, enlists the services of his friends to film a rough cut and buy himself some time.

However, things go wrong when the crew learns about the missing homeless people and tales of monstrous dwellers living underground.

The crew finds themselves in the sewers pursuing a story that keeps worsening, eventually resulting in their disappearance.

This award-winning feature film uses found footage and unique cinematic techniques to tell this tale of horror and gore.

With scenes shot in different parts of the country, Dwellers offers realistic visuals without sacrificing the quality of the story and giving viewers a grounded feel.

Fans of horror and gore, get in here!

This one is for you.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 3.0 /10

Filming Location: Springfield, IL

3. Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde (2003) (Animal Rights Mission)

Directed by Charles Herman-Wurmfeld, Legally Blonde 2 is the sequel to the original 2001 film and the franchise’s second movie.

The comedy-drama film follows the life of Elle Woods, a sassy Harvard law school graduate.

She’s passionate about animal rights, fueling her determination and courage to handle ridicule and rejection in her bid to promote her beliefs.

The movie starts with Elle trying to find the mother of her Chihuahua, Bruiser, to reunite both dogs, hoping they attend her wedding.

She enlists the services of a detective who discovers that a cosmetic corporation uses Bruiser’s mother as a test subject.

Elle then decides to go to Washington, D.C., to get her anti-animal testing bill passed into law.

Although the film is set in Washington, D.C., the movie was shot in various locations across the country, such as Utah, California, and Illinois.

Interestingly, the Illinois State Capitol chamber was also used as a set in filming this movie.

Maybe on your next visit, you can check it out!

Movie Rating (IMDB): 4.6/10

Filming Location: Springfield, IL

4. The Informant! (2009) (Lysine Conspiracy & Comedy)

If you enjoy original crime dramas with a touch of comedy, then you must know about The Informant.

However, did you know that most of the scenes in this movie were shot in Illinois?

With an A-list cast ensemble featuring Matt Damon, Tony Hale, Patton Oswalt, Eddie Jemison, Melanie Lynskey, Rusty Schwimmer, and Rick Overton, The Informant tells the true life story of Mark Whitacre.

It follows Whitacre’s involvement as a whistle-blower in the 1990 lysine price-fixing conspiracy.

Mark Whitacre, an executive in Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), an agro-business giant, informs the FBI that he’s aware of the lysine price-fixing scandal by ADM and its competitors.

The FBI then convinces Mark to work with them to obtain proof to support his allegations.

Their operation ran for about three years, and during that time, Mark slowly adopted the idea that he was an actual FBI agent.

However, the pressures of his position get to him, causing his world to come crashing down around him.

With scenes shot in different locations worldwide, Illinois became an essential shooting area for the movie featuring scenes in Springfield, Decatur, Blue Mound, Stonington, and other surrounding areas.

If you love these kinds of movies, you can schedule an excursion around the state to visit the filming locations.

Movie Rating (IMDB): 6.5/10

Filming Location: Springfield, IL

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Zoos, Mini golfs, and Cheap weekend getaways in Illinois.

Looking beyond Illinois? Check out our article on Movies Filmed in Texas and California.