McHenry is a riverside city in northeastern Illinois, its identity shaped by the Fox River that gently courses through its heart. With approximately 28,800 residents as of 2025, the city has experienced steady growth—around one percent annually—anchored by a median age in the early forties. Homes here reflect a range of architectural eras: from 1980s ranches to newer developments, with a strong majority of residents owning their homes. This blend of established neighborhoods and emerging areas highlights how the area has evolved while still holding onto a comfortable sense of place.
Beyond statistics, McHenry is often regarded as the “Heart of the Fox River,” and it’s easy to see why. The RiverWalk stretches alongside the water, linking unique shops, restaurants, and public spaces. In warmer months, paddleboats, kayaks, and anglers fill the scene, offering a laid-back energy that feels almost timeless. One lesser-known local tale describes early spring when driftwood and logs occasionally float upstream—a quirky nod to the area’s logging past—which still becomes a conversation starter during leisurely walks on the RiverWalk.
When the calendar turns to mid‑July, McHenry transforms for Fiesta Days. Eleven days of carnival rides, live music, parades, and regional cuisine take over the downtown, showcasing local artisans and family traditions. Come September, the McHenry Music Fest adds a three-day soundtrack of regional bands supporting community initiatives. Between these major annual events, neighbors gather for a Fox River cleanup each spring, paddling short stretches of water and capping it all with live tunes at Miller Point Park. Even quieter customs persist, such as summer exchanges of jams and potted plants on the library lawn—an affectionate ritual locals talk about.
The city’s history breathes through landmarks like the Petersen Farm and Count’s House, both listed on the National Register. Local lore often whispers about a nocturnal miller’s ghost seen near the old dam at Boone Creek—a spectral storyteller for those who linger by the water after dusk. Nearby, Moraine Hills State Park anchors the southeastern edge of town. With glacial lakes, woodlands, and miles of trails, it’s a beloved outpost for hikers, anglers, and folks seeking a breath of nature without straying too far from town.
Eating in McHenry means stopping by neighborhood staples where names and signatures go hand-in-hand. Bimbo’s Italian Restaurant along Riverside Drive earns praise for its lasagna, calamari, and Berkshire pork chop, served in a friendly atmosphere that feels personal. Not far away, UpRooted Restaurant and Bar crafts a standout Reuben sandwich and offers broasted chicken that locals find irresistible—its ambiance blends comfortably casual with neighborhood familiarity. Sushi King has made a name for itself with generous “all you can eat” sushi rolls, particularly the Philadelphia roll and homemade gyoza. Down on Green Street, Mackey’s Hideout mixes a relaxed bar environment with rotating craft beers and impromptu live music, while Kim & Patty’s Cafe draws brunch crowds for dishes like steak bruschetta salad and classic eggs Benedict—its reputation extended by hosting events such as fundraisers and small receptions.
In addition to these dining spots, McHenry supports a thriving small business culture. The Bumble Bread Company opens early on Green Street, welcoming its regulars with artisan loaves and pastries that disappear fast. McHenry Brewing Company on Pearl Street does more than brew beer—it offers pub-style fare and occasional live performances, making weekend evenings feel like a community gathering. Meanwhile, Village Squire on Elm Street serves American favorites alongside a notable rum flight menu that keeps locals coming back for conversations and comfort. These spots are woven into McHenry life, where familiarity and quality go hand in hand.
Recreation in McHenry spreads beyond the river: the Prairie Trail threads through town and connects with the Grand Illinois Trail, inviting runners and cyclists to explore beyond the city limits. One local treasure is the McHenry Outdoor Theater, a drive-in cinema still operating from spring to early winter. Since opening in 1951 and updating its projector in 2013, it continues to host crowds under the night sky. It’s more than a movie spot—it’s part of the region's collective memory.
Of course, McHenry also offers practical amenities—such as Metra commuter rail service into Chicago, Pace Bus options, and nearness to Galt Field for private aviation—supporting residents in their daily lives. Grocery needs are met at places like Meijer, and northside retail corridors make errands straightforward. Local healthcare is anchored by Northwestern Medicine McHenry Hospital, a presence that many find reassuring.
We’re familiar with the rhythms of McHenry—its seasons, annual events, neighborhood haunts, and mix of urban convenience with natural retreats. When it’s time to refresh a home or enhance living spaces that reflect local character—maybe a kitchen overlooking the river or an outdoor deck facing Moraine Hills Park—we’re here. At B&G Remodeling, we offer remodeling and handyman services tuned to McHenry’s style and traditions. We’d welcome the chance to bring your ideas to life and help your home be part of what makes this city feel like home. Contact us for a consultation today.