Where Was Netflix’s ‘Monster: The Ed Gein Story’ Filmed? Tips For Exploring, From Illinois To California

Netflix’s “Monster: The Ed Gein Story” has quickly sent shivers down viewers’ spines with its true crime and horror elements. Following the success of releases like “Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story” and “Monster: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story,” this last installment dives into one of America’s most disturbing figures. Ed Gein is the man whose crimes inspired some other chilling horror classics, including “Psycho,” “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” and “Silence of the Lambs.” The recent release stars Charlie Hunnam as the infamous Gein, Laurie Metcalf as his domineering mother Augusta and Tom Hollander as none other than Alfred Hitchcock.

“Monster” blurs the lines between historical narrative and cultural reflection through an intricate mixture of psychological horror and period drama. With the eerie stillness of the countryside, faded Americana of small-town streets and isolating landscapes, the series is seeped in the authenticity of the story. Yet, surprisingly, the crew actually didn’t shoot in its setting, Plainfield, Wisconsin, Gein’s real murderous home base. Instead, they painstakingly recreated his world (set in the 1950s) across some Midwestern and West Coast destinations. Here are the filming locations that contributed to the creation of the striking miniseries.  

Where Was ‘Monster: The Ed Gein Story’ Filmed?

Though the narrative takes place in rural Wisconsin, “Monster: The Ed Gein Story” was filmed primarily in Illinois and California. As The Cinemaholic reports, these locations were chosen for their production convenience and architectural authenticity. Illinois, in particular, is where the filmmakers sought out some towns that felt frozen in time. These types of places are where viewers might believe a man could vanish into his farmhouse and emerge as a frightening figure.

Two quaint locations became the heart of the show’s rural setting – Kankakee County and Livingston County, Illinois. To be more specific, the city of Momence in Kankakee County and the village of Saunemin in Livingston County set the scene for the eerie storyline.

Illinois’ Kankakee And Livingston Counties Appear On-Screen

As The Daily Journal reports, the production spent time transforming Momence, Illinois, into a convincing 1950s Midwest town. East Washington Street was dressed with vintage cars, retro storefronts and many other era-appropriate signage. These reflected the quiet, almost picture-perfect small town that concealed dark secrets beneath the surface. Some parts of downtown Momence were even shut down for filming. A key scene from “Monster,” which includes men carrying rifles, was filmed on Washington Street. The undisturbed charm and open space in this hidden gem made it an excellent space for production to build an unsettling atmosphere.

Elsewhere, production took a short drive southwest to Saunemin, Illinois. Here, the cast and crew utilized the Saunemin Tap, a rustic tavern located on North Street, as a recurring filming location. According to the Country Herald, the crew filmed both interior and exterior shots here. After repainting some storefronts and lining the streets with period-accurate vehicles, they produced a fully immersive snapshot of rural life in the 1950s. 

This village’s sparse layout and wide yet flat landscape offered a perfect visual match for 1950s central Wisconsin. Saunemin’s low skyline and agricultural surroundings provided a kind of natural melancholy that ultimately influenced the tone of many pivotal scenes. Together Kankakee and Livingston Counties gave the season an unforgettable geographical identity and disturbingly real feel. But they weren’t the only “Monster” film locations you might recognize during your travels. 

Chicago’s Pullman District Served As A ‘Monster’ Filming Location

Key Scenes: Chicago served as the production’s backbone, despite some pretty impactful rural shoots that established the atmosphere. According to Game Pressure, much of the action was centered in the Pullman Historic District, which is on the city’s South Side. Filming took place in the area in February 2025, according to early reports from Reel Chicago.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Pullman Historic District is either late spring or early fall. This is when the weather is most pleasant and mild, making it friendly for those who want to enjoy the outdoors. Travelers who want to experience the historic glory of this area should consider a fall trip.

Transportation Options: Travelers should have no difficulty getting around the Pullman Historic District, as public transportation is well-established in this area. The Chicago Transit Authority’s (CTA) buses and train services are popular and cost-effective means of getting around the city. It is also very suitable for walking, but ride-sharing services are a convenient option as well. 

Although neighborhoods around Pullman were part of telling Ed Gein’s horrifying story, there was one particular filming location that was featured. As Cinemaholic reports, the Hotel Florence, an iconic red-bricked 1880s landmark, makes a significant appearance on-screen. The building was constructed in 1881 and can be found at 11111 South Forrestville Avenue. Like the other filming sites, the Hotel Florence underwent some changes to fit Ryan Murphy’s storyline. Additional scenes were reportedly captured there in March 2025.

Things to Do: As a recognized cultural hub, the Pullman Historic District offers plenty to explore. Two of the most popular activities are perfect for getting to know the area’s rich history and culture include walking through the area itself, and dropping by the Pullman National Historical Park Visitor Center. These activities are excellent ways to dive right into the area’s unique story and architecture.

Where to Eat: The historic district offers mainly American cuisine, but there are numerous options available. The Pullman Cafe is a newly restored eatery offering affordable and casual cuisine. Alternatively, Pullman’s Potbelly Sandwich Shop is a great place to get a quick bite, only a short commute away.  

Where to Stay: There are not many accommodations located directly near the Pullman Historic District, so a short commute is required to stay in the area. Neighborhoods like Hyde Park or the South Loop are popular for these reasons. The SOPHY – Hyde Park is an upscale option that has a chic ambiance. Then there is the Freehand Chicago, a vibrant and vintage accommodation located in a buzzing area. 

Los Angeles’ Rural Landscapes Help Tell Gein’s Story, Too

Key Scenes: Production moved to Los Angeles, California, to film some rural, outdoor scenes and others on controlled stages and interior sets. As The Cinemaholic reports, LA hosted many of the more critical intimate landscape scenes. These psychologically charged moments include those showcasing Ed Gein’s home interiors and eerie “trophy room.”

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Los Angeles is considered to be either during the spring or fall. This is when the weather is milder, and travelers may be able to avoid crowding (which is common in the summer).

Transportation Options: To travel in Los Angeles, travelers can take the LA Metro (either the bus or rail). This is a relatively affordable option, but it is also one of the most popular ways to get around. Another option is a rental car, bike share or booking ride-share services.  

Per The Cinemaholic, some landscapes around the city were captured to bring the rural Wisconsin setting to life. Both interior and exterior scenes were filmed in this popular Hollywood hub. However, the precise lighting and sound control available in LA made some crucial scenes, such as those with Gein’s farmhouse, much more immersive. Blending atmospheric rural exteriors from Illinois with hauntingly detailed interiors captured in LA helped production to construct a more cohesive and complex world. 

Things to Do: Since LA is the ultimate entertainment hub, you’ll find countless things to do. A the Hollywood Walk of Fame, you’ll at least see some stars. Meanwhile, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood gives a behind-the-scenes look at where movie magic is made.

Where to Eat: Los Angeles is known for its high-end experiences, and cuisine is no exception to that reputation. The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Downtown Los Angeles is an excellent option for movie lovers and foodies. It is a movie theater in the heart of the city that offers both a great viewing experience and excellent food. Then there’s For the Win, which is a more traditional hamburger restaurant but it is located near some cool cinema experiences. 

Where to Stay: The downtown LA area is a central yet pricey location to stay. However, for travelers seeking to explore the most popular entertainment industry attractions, this area is well worth staying in. The Freehand Los Angeles is a relatively affordable option, while The Biltmore Los Angeles is pricier. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Alfred Hitchcock in “Ed Gein“?

Director Ryan Murphy included Alfred Hitchcock (portrayed by Tom Hollander) to connect Gein’s crimes to how they later directly influenced “Psycho.” Although Hitchcock’s presence blurs fiction and fact, it reminds viewers of how Gein’s atrocities forever changed American horror, per People. 

Why did Charlie Hunnam play Ed Gein?

As Hunnam shared with Netflix’s Tudum, he took on the role to, “[…] get as close as possible to who Ed was, to do him justice and for this thing to feel authentic.”

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