Illinois in Movies and TV: Famous Filming Locations You Can Visit
Chicago, Illinois, serves as a cinematic playground for filmmakers, and nowhere captures this better than the Chicago Board of Trade Building in the Loop district. Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, just minutes from Millennium Park, this art deco skyscraper famously stood in for the Daily Planet building in the Superman movies starring Christopher Reeve. Visitors can admire the building’s striking exterior and explore nearby LaSalle Street, often dubbed the “Wall Street of the Midwest,” where many scenes were shot. The area’s blend of historic architecture and bustling urban energy makes it a living film set. Early morning or late afternoon light casts dramatic shadows on the building’s façade, ideal for photography enthusiasts who want to capture the city’s cinematic spirit.
A short drive south from Chicago brings you to Joliet, about 35 miles southwest of the city, home to the imposing Joliet Correctional Center. This decommissioned prison served as the primary filming location for the TV series “Prison Break.” Though the prison itself is closed to the public, visitors can explore nearby historic downtown Joliet, where many street scenes were filmed. The town offers a fascinating glimpse into the gritty midwestern backdrop that helped shape the show’s intense atmosphere. Fall visits are particularly atmospheric, as autumn foliage adds a haunting beauty to the industrial surroundings that once housed the cast and crew.
Further west, the small town of Galena, roughly 160 miles northwest of Chicago near the Iowa border, features charming 19th-century streetscapes that have appeared in several films, including “Public Enemies.” The town’s Main Street, lined with historic brick buildings and quaint shops, stood in for Depression-era America. Walking tours of downtown Galena allow visitors to step into scenes where Johnny Depp’s character once roamed. This town’s unique preservation of its historic architecture, coupled with rolling hills and the nearby Mississippi River bluffs, offers a picturesque getaway from urban sprawl. Springtime, when the town’s gardens bloom, adds a vibrant contrast to its cinematic past.
In Peoria, about 160 miles southwest of Chicago along the Illinois River, the Peoria Civic Center was featured in the action movie “Transformers: Dark of the Moon.” Filmgoers can still experience the arena’s sleek interior and its surrounding riverfront park. The park includes a scenic trail along the Illinois River with views of the downtown skyline, blending natural beauty with urban culture. Peoria’s riverfront, especially during summer festivals and mild evenings, provides a unique mix of entertainment and tranquility, reflecting the city’s film and performing arts pedigree.
Heading to the central part of the state, Springfield, Illinois, famously known as Abraham Lincoln’s hometown and about 200 miles southwest of Chicago, has been the backdrop for several historical dramas. The Old State Capitol building, where Lincoln once spoke, appeared in the film “Lincoln” directed by Steven Spielberg. Tourists can explore this majestic Greek Revival building and the nearby Lincoln Home National Historic Site, immersing themselves in the political drama of the 19th century. The combination of historical architecture and deep-rooted American storytelling makes Springfield a must-visit for anyone interested in American history in film. Fall is an ideal time to visit when cooler temperatures and changing leaves enhance the historical ambiance.
In the Chicago suburb of Oak Park, just 10 miles west of downtown Chicago, visitors can find the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio. This architectural landmark was not only the birthplace of Wright’s revolutionary designs but also appeared in the film “The Fugitive.” Touring the home offers insights into Wright’s early work and the creative environment that influenced filmmakers. The neighborhood’s tree-lined streets and Prairie-style homes provide a picturesque glimpse into early 20th-century suburban life. Spring and summer bring lush greenery, making it perfect for a leisurely walking tour of the area, where you can feel the blend of art, architecture, and cinema.
Finally, venture east to the Indiana border near Danville, Illinois, about 120 miles south of Chicago, where the Vermilion County Fairgrounds have hosted scenes from films like “The Express,” a sports drama about college football. The fairgrounds retain a nostalgic Americana feel, with classic grandstands and open fields that evoke small-town charm on screen. Attending a local event or simply wandering the grounds offers a tangible connection to the sport and film. Late summer, when county fairs are in full swing, provides an especially lively atmosphere that resonates with the movie’s themes of community and perseverance.
Each of these places offers a unique window into the world of movies and TV, inviting visitors to walk the same streets and gaze upon the same landmarks that have brought Illinois to life on screen. From the urban grandeur of Chicago’s skyscrapers to the historic charm of small towns like Galena and Springfield, the state is a living tableau where cinema and reality blend seamlessly, making it a rich destination for film lovers and curious travelers alike.