If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the looping hilarity of Groundhog Day, there’s no better place to do it than Woodstock, Illinois. While Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, plays host to the real-life Groundhog Day celebration, this charming Midwestern town was the actual filming location for the beloved 1993 movie starring Bill Murray. With historic buildings, cozy streets, and endless charm, Woodstock lets fans of the film experience the magic up close—minus the time loop, of course (we think?).

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious traveler, Woodstock offers all the nostalgia, humor, and small-town spirit you’ve been looking for.

Welcome to Woodstock, aka Punxsutawney-on-Screen

Nestled about an hour northwest of Chicago, Woodstock oozes small-town charm. It’s a postcard-perfect place with a historic downtown square, brick-paved streets, and independently owned shops and cafés. When director Harold Ramis was scouting for the backdrop to Groundhog Day, he needed a quintessential town that felt both timeless and intriguing—and Woodstock fit the bill.

The town transformed into “Punxsutawney” during filming, but locals (and now visitors like you) know it as something much more special. From the iconic gazebo to the rustic bed-and-breakfast, Woodstock doesn’t just borrow the look of your favorite feel-good movie—it is the feel-good movie.

Must-Visit Filming Locations in Woodstock

You don’t need a map to find the Groundhog Day spots—it’s a small town, and most of the iconic filming locations are just steps away from each other. Here’s where to relive Phil Connors’ hilariously repetitive day:

1. The Woodstock Square (aka Gobbler’s Knob)

Start your Groundhog Day pilgrimage at the heart of Woodstock, the town square. This picturesque area served as Gobbler’s Knob, where the famous groundhog prediction scenes took place. Look up at the towering Woodstock Opera House, admire the charming storefronts, and envision the crowd cheering as Phil Connors begrudgingly awaits the groundhog’s forecast.

If you’re visiting in early February, you’ll even find a small-town celebration honoring the movie—and yes, there’s an actual groundhog involved.

2. The Gazebo

Right in the middle of the square, you’ll find the iconic gazebo featured prominently in many Groundhog Day scenes. It’s the perfect spot for snapping a selfie or recreating Phil Connors’ moment of philosophical reflection as the day’s events start to take an emotional turn.

3. The Tip Top Café (now Taqueria La Placita)

Remember the Tip Top Café, where Phil stuffs himself with pancakes, coffee, and all the desserts he could eat? That’s now Taqueria La Placita, a fantastic Mexican restaurant. While the inside has changed quite a bit since filming wrapped, the restaurant pays homage to its cinematic roots, making it a fun stop for any Groundhog Day fan (bonus points if you play it cool and pretend you’ve “been here before”).

4. The “Don’t Drive Angry!” Scene Location

The memorable scene where Phil kidnaps the groundhog and drives off with him happens near the town square. While there’s sadly no groundhog statue waiting for a BTS photo op, it’s still a fun anecdote for fans to imagine Murray and a nervous rodent hitting the road.

5. The Cherry Street Inn

Want to sleep inside a piece of cinematic history? The Cherry Street Inn, known in the movie as Phil Connors’ repeat-stuck bed-and-breakfast, is located at 344 Fremont Street. Today, it’s a privately owned home, but you’re more than welcome to take a stroll by and snap a photo. You can almost hear Phil muttering, “Rise and shine, campers!” as it comes into view.

6. Ned Ryerson’s Corner

“Bing!” Fans of the overly enthusiastic Ned Ryerson will recognize the corner where Phil repeatedly bumps into Ned with increasing levels of annoyance and cleverness. The spot is located at the corner of Cass and Main Streets, and rumor has it the original enthusiast exclaims, “Watch that first step—it’s a doozy!”

7. The Groundhog Day Plaques

Woodstock takes its Groundhog Day legacy seriously, and you’ll find bronze plaques scattered throughout the town marking iconic filming spots. It’s like a scavenger hunt for superfans, with each plaque unveiling a bit of movie trivia or behind-the-scenes fun.

Experience More Than Just the Film

Woodstock isn’t a town that rests on its Hollywood laurels. Beyond its Groundhog Day ties, this is a vibrant destination full of surprises.

Woodstock Opera House

This historic building is more than movie backdrop—it’s a treasure trove of local art, music, and theater. Stop by during your visit to catch live performances or simply admire the architecture.

Charming Shops and Eateries

Downtown Woodstock is brimming with unique stores and eateries. Create a new moment of your own as you sip coffee at Ethereal Confections, a chocolate shop and café, or browse through indie boutiques like Read Between the Lynes bookstore.

Seasonal Celebrations

Score extra points if you visit Woodstock near Groundhog Day, when the town hosts its own multi-day celebration. Events range from a groundhog handler meet-and-greet to a free screening of Groundhog Day at the historic theater. It’s the ideal time to see the town fully embrace its quirky, repeating-day identity.

And if you’re visiting during warmer months, the Woodstock Farmers Market is a can’t-miss experience filled with local produce, flowers, and small-batch goodies.

Plan Your Visit

How can you relive your very own Groundhog Day adventure? Thankfully, Woodstock is easily accessible by car or rail. Driving from Chicago only takes about an hour, and the Metra train’s Union Pacific Northwest Line brings you directly into town.

For a comfortable stay, consider nearby local hotels or quaint Airbnb options just outside the main square—you won’t be far from the action, and waking up in such a beautiful setting will make it feel like you’re in your own movie montage.

Don’t forget to pack warm clothes if you’re planning a February visit. Groundhog Day weather in Illinois tends to be chilly, and an extra layer might just save you from doing a “loop your coat tighter” scene à la Phil Connors.

Woodstock, Illinois, is living proof that small towns can make big memories. Whether you’re here to indulge your love for Groundhog Day, explore the historic downtown square, or simply enjoy its welcoming charm, you’ll find plenty to keep you smiling—even if you feel like you’ve seen it all before.

Grab your camera, bring your sense of humor, and roll into Woodstock. Just try not to drive angry, okay?