We are one day away from October, which means that fall is in full force. While we are still waiting for Mother Nature to catch up with the weather (even though I am not complaining about the 80 degrees), it is time to pack in all of the fall fun.
Since I normally have Chicago Suburb Guides that I share, I thought it would be fun to put together one big guide about fall things to do in the Chicago/Chicagoland area. My one word of advice, things sell out quickly, and will tend to be crowded if you go at peak times (Saturday/Sunday afternoons), but plan ahead and you should be able to fit in all of the fun fall activities your little heart desires!
Fall Activities in Chicago/Chicagoland
Abbey Farms
This one is right in my backyard. No joke, I can pretty much walk here. Abbey Farms is an all season farm, but this time of year it is the most special to visit. Take a visit to the country store and pick up some apple cider donuts and some beer or wine that they make in house! On Friday’s at 7pm they offer live music. They have an adorable patio that would make for a lovely evening.
If you’re feeling up for it, check out their pumpkin daze. It includes the largest corn maze in Kane County, pumpkin patches, and all of the fall fun. They also have live music in the tent Saturday/Sunday 1-5pm. Be sure to come pack during the holidays to their Christmas tree farm!
Get lost in the world’s largest corn maze at Richardson Adventure Farm
You read that right. Richardson Adventure Farm holds the largest corn maze in the world. I’m talking more than 21 football fields big. Even the savviest corn maze explorers will be challenged by its nearly 10-mile-long tangled trails. The design changes every year, so no two mazes are ever alike. Once you complete the maze, or you get tired of trekking through cornstalks, you can also go on a hayride, have a campfire, or even ride a 100-foot slide.
Starved Rock
Nothing quite beats a fall foliage walk. The colors are just stunning. Sometimes I forget how lucky we are to live in the midwest where we get to experience the beautiful colors of fall. If you are looking for a good fall hike, Starved Rock is your best bet. Located on the south bank of the Illinois River in LaSalle County, Starved Rock offers 13 miles of well established trails winding through 18 canyons, with views of gorgeous waterfalls and rock formations (including the 125-foot butte overlooking the river that gives the park its name). Guided hikes are available year-round, or you can set out exploring at your own pace.
Drink German Beer At An Oktoberfest
It is no surprise that I love a good Oktoberfest. I think they are so fun! From the music to the lederhosens and stein holding contests. Ever year, I try to go to at least one Oktoberfest. I went to Two Brother’s a couple weekends ago and it was a blast. I didn’t win the stein holding contest, but I drank their Oktoberfest beer, Atom Smasher, and had some yummy German food. Check out all of the fun German festivities happening in Illinois here!
Spend A Day At A Fall Festival
Another one of my favorite fall activities is checking out the local fall festivals. These started in early September, but don’t fear there is still a ton going on in the month of October. Check out all the fall festivals happening for the rest of the season here!
Jack’s Pumpkin Pop Up
Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up is located on over 2 acres in Goose Island. For one month only experience a larger than life, outdoor, multi-sensory adventure in the heart of Chicago. Spend an autumn night outside making memories while you get lost in Chicago’s largest corn maze! Whether you’re seeking a striking nighttime lights display, an outdoor pumpkin-themed party with dozens of fall themed instagramable memories, there’s an experience here for everyone! Be sure to get tickets in advance!
Howlin’ At The Moon – Naper Settlement
Be sure to check out this event Friday October 22 and Saturday October 23 at Naper Settlement in Naperville. With live music, a food truck graveyard, and halloween inspired cocktails. This 21+ weekend is sure to get you in the spooky spirit!
Free Tours By Foot: Haunted City/Ghost Tours
The Windy City is known for her food, architecture, and haunting history! Take a free walking tour as the sun sets hearing some of the most creepy Chicago stories. From the most haunted hotel in Chicago to the streets where H.H. Holmes wandered and stalked his prey, you will learn all about the spooky history of the city. Check out their schedule here for all of the walking tours they offer!
Eat Apple Cider Donuts at Kuipers Family Farm
These are hands down my favorite apple cider donuts EVER! We have been going to Kuipers ever since I was a little girl. It has grown into a fall family fun Mecca, but we mostly stick to the country store to stock up on all of our fall goodies. They do offer apple picking, except we are a little past apple picking season. Be sure to do this in the beginning of September! They also have a sunflower field to explore as well in the beginning of the season.
Adults Night Out: Lincoln Park Zoo
Head out to Lincoln Park Zoo Thursday October 28th from 6:30-10pm for an after hours event. Adults Night Out: The Great Pumpkin Glow. You can enjoy unique animal chats, educational entertainment, a live DJ, and multiple bars throughout the zoo at this after-hours event. No kids. No crowds. Strolling among wildlife with a beer, cider, hard seltzer or glass of wine in hand. Where do I sign up?! Buy your tickets here! Can’t make this event? Don’t worry, Lincoln Park is holding it’s fall festival Friday’s-Sunday’s all month of October. Best part is that this event is free!
There are so many fun things to do this time of year. The hardest part is narrowing down what you actually can fit in during this short season. If I am missing anything that is a must do this time of year, let me know in the comments!
Happy Fall y’all!
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