If you’re looking for a cozy, afternoon tea experience in the already charming Woodstock, Illinois, afternoon tea at Casting Whimsy delivers charm.  From the moment you step into the whimsical parlor and cast your eyes on the wall of tea blends, you know it will be a good visit. 

Here’s what you can expect from an afternoon tea at Casting Whimsy and why you should book your very own afternoon tea experience.

Our afternoon tea was provided by Naturally McHenry County. All opinions are our own. Click to read our full disclaimer policy

Casting Whimsy Adds to the Charm of Woodstock

Woodstock already feels whimsical and cozy and was made famous as a filming location for the movie Groundhog Day, starring Bill Murray, as well as several Hallmark Movies. When you visit, you’ll know why Woodstock is such a great film location. 

Pairing a tea experience followed by a stroll around Woodstock Square is a perfect small-town Illinois experience. 

We suggest planning a cozy winter getaway in Woodstock for a delightful holiday experience.

Whimsy Perfectly Describes This Tea Shop

Casting Whimsy is honestly the perfect name for this tea shop. 

The bright lighting has actual whimsical reflections casting across the space from the windowpane details, and the Alice in Wonderland vibe sets the tone. 

Casting Whimsy’s Specialty: Small-Batch Teas & Baked Goods

O

wner Paula Aitken was first inspired to open a tea shop after she and her husband, Randy, took a walking food tour of Chicago, and a tea shop was one of the stops. 

We’ve actually been on that same food tour!

Paula personally creates all the unique small-batch loose-leaf tea blends using both organic and fair-trade-certified leaves that locals absolutely love, while her husband, Randy, a Dungeons & Dragons lover, has developed incredible pastry-making skills. Together, they’ve built a beloved tea shop in Woodstock.

Book An Afternoon Tea Experience

Though you can grab and go, afternoon tea is an experience, perfect for a girl’s afternoon, birthday celebration, an afternoon date, or anyone looking to slow down and enjoy a fun, nourishing experience centered on tea and food. 

While traditional tea services often center around scones, pastries, and tea sandwiches, the owners graciously prepared a separate plant-based meal for us, and though we were jealous of all the non-vegan baked goods, our lunch was so nutritionally satisfying. 

Keep this link handy to book your afternoon tea, but contact them first if you have any dietary restrictions so they can prepare somethingfor you.  

We mentioned that co-owner Randy loves Dungeons and Dragons. Casting Whimsy is known for their Tea & D monthly nights, where anyone experienced or curious about D & D can come for games and tea. 

What They Prepared For Us (Vegan-Friendly)

The afternoon teas are themed, and they do their best to accommodate dietary restrictions. Although there were no vegan baked sweets available, we completely enjoyed the following special meal they prepared for us:

• A fresh, beautiful salad with spring greens, tomato, carrots, pepper, and a house-made balsamic vinaigrette
• A cup of mushroom barley soup, which was earthy and hearty 
• A fresh slice of a fresh baguette
• Our selection of hot tea served in charming vintage teaware

Look at how stunning these baked sweets are. All made in-house!

Make it a Woodstock Day Trip

Consider exploring Woodstock Square and other Groundhog Day filming locations. 

The square is full of local boutiques and shop and there are often seasonal events that add to the charm of the historic Woodstock Square. 

One thing we love about Woodstock and McHenry County is that they have some fantastic local restaurants with creative menus. We easily found vegan options, and you can find them in our McHenry County vegan guide. We were really pleased with the vegan options at all local restaurants in Woostock, IL!

If you really want to treat yourself, book a stay at The Cherry Tree B & B, this is where Bill Murray’s character woke up every morning in the movie Groundhog Day. 

Where is Casting Whimsy?

203 N Madison St., Woodstock, Illinois 60098-3414

Save For Whimsical Afternoon Tea Experience in Woodstock, Illinois