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Lake County Gazette

Monday, January 13, 2025

Planes, Trains, & Automobiles: A Thanksgiving Classic Filmed in Illinois

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State Representative Tom Weber (IL) | Representative Tom Weber (R) 64th District

State Representative Tom Weber (IL) | Representative Tom Weber (R) 64th District

Nov 21, 2023

"Planes, Trains, & Automobiles" is a Thanksgiving classic that many Illinoisans enjoy watching year after year. The film, directed by John Hughes and starring Steve Martin and the late John Candy, features various locations in Illinois. While the story begins in New York and takes the characters on a wild journey, several scenes were actually shot in different parts of Illinois.

One notable location in the movie is the "Edelen's Braidwood Inn," where the characters Neal Page and Del Griffith find a hotel room. Interestingly, this inn is located in Braidwood, Illinois and is known as the Sun Motel, situated at 140 South Hickory Street. The film showcases the inn by filming pigs crossing a highway, which is actually Interstate 55.

After their mishaps in New York, Neal and Del end up in St. Louis. In a memorable scene at Lambert International Airport, Neal expresses his frustration and need for a rental car. The airport scene was actually shot at Lambert International Airport in St. Louis, where Neal also gets into a physical altercation with Del Griffith.

Another notable location is the St. Louis Bus Station, which is depicted in the movie but is actually located in Chicago. The station was situated at 20 E. Randolph Street; however, it has since been demolished.

Continuing their journey, Neal and Del eventually reach the El Rancho Motel in Gurnee. This motel serves as the setting where Neal leaves Del in the destroyed rental car as it begins to snow. Realizing his mistake, Neal invites Del into his motel room, which he secured for $17 and a nice watch.

As the movie progresses, the characters find themselves in various locations. The courthouse shown in the film, for example, is located in Woodstock. Additionally, the LaSalle/Van Buren El Station, where Neal finds out about Del's personal tragedy, is also in Woodstock.

Finally, when Neal invites Del to his home for Thanksgiving dinner, they arrive at Kenilworth. It is worth noting that although the Page residence in the film resembles the famous "Home Alone" house in Winnetka, it is actually located in Kenilworth, southeast of the McAlister's home.

While "Planes, Trains, & Automobiles" is a comedy classic, it also sheds light on the issue of homelessness through John Candy's character. As we approach Thanksgiving, it is important to remember our neighbors and extend a helping hand to those in need. Whether it means inviting someone lonely to our Thanksgiving table or making a donation to a charitable organization, let us be kind and compassionate during this holiday season.

Wishing everyone a happy Thanksgiving filled with warmth and gratitude.

Click this link to access more information: https://repweber.com/2023/11/21/planes-trains-automobiles-a-thanksgiving-classic-filmed-in-illinois/

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