The fall season brings a colorful charm to the Windy City with crisp air, vibrant foliage, and an array of festive activities. Whether you're a local looking to try new experiences or a visitor eager to discover the city's seasonal delights, there are so many wonderful and fun things to do in Chicago in the fall.
Fall Activities in Chicago
Chicagohenge
Experience the fall equinox and the best sunset photos of the Chicago skyline. Be among the professional photographers who gather twice yearly for this special phenomenon.
Location: Explore and photograph the best spots on the east side of the following neighborhoods: Streeterville, Loop and Lakeshore East. Some notable photographer spots are Prudential Plaza in Lakeshore East and 201 E Walton in Streeterville.
Pro Tip: Arrive early, well before sunset, to get your spot and line up your shots. You will not be alone.
Open House Chicago
Enjoy free tours of Chicago architecture. This fall activity in Chicago explores historically and architecturally significant buildings, some of which are not typically open to the public, for free at this once-a-year event on October 19-20, 2024.
Location: Buildings that participate in Open House Chicago are located throughout the city.
Pro Tip: Start the day early, download the map in advance and plan out your day. It’s a lot of walking, so wear your walking shoes. If you require an accessible experience, look up the buildings that will accommodate needs in advance.
Apple Fest in Lincoln Square
This neighborhood festival with a fall theme has over 50 vendors, apple ciders and apple inspired dishes as well as live entertainment, activities and family fun. Saturday and Sunday October 5 & 6, 2024 will mark the 37th anniversary of the Annual Apple Fest!
Location: Lincoln Square is on the north side of Chicago. Lincoln Avenue between Lawrence and Sunnyside will be closed to accommodate the festival.
Pro Tip: Dress weather appropriate and either take public transportation or book your parking in advance.
Arts in the Dark Parade
Experience a colorful and fantastic display of cultural diversity and unique performances and costumes. The “artist’s holiday” is a parade that brings together creative minds from professional to novice, young and old in a celebration of performance and exploration into the artists and their cultural diversity. This is a parade as art.
Location: The Loop neighborhood hosts this parade on October 19, 2024 on State Street from Lake Street to Van Buren.
Pro Tip: Find parking or arrive early in the day. Most of the streets will be closed leading up to the parade. Wear a costume, bring the family, and enjoy the fun for all in the fall in Chicago.
Chicago Fall Festivals
Haunted Halsted
Chicago’s most colorful fall activity happens each year on October 31. Halloween is a special holiday on North Halsted where events include: a parade, costume contest and live music. This is some of the best people watching in Chicago in the fall. The costume contest is for professionals and novices alike.
Location: Halsted, between Belmont and Brompton.
Pro Tip: Take the Red Line El-train and exit at the Belmont stop.
Fall Getaways Near Chicago
Morton Arboretum
Explore the fall colors in full bloom in this preserved natural beauty just west of Chicago featuring expansive gardens, art installations, a restaurant and more. Each year Morton Arboretum honors a new artist with installations that complement the natural surroundings of this beautiful park.
Location: Approximately one hour driving west from Chicago to Lisle, Illinois.
Pro Tip: Dress weather appropriately and take a map to find each art installation. If you prefer to drive around the park, there is parking along the way. If you prefer to hike, there is ample parking at the main entrance. Pay in advance or when you arrive.
Apple Picking at County Line Orchard
Get into the fall spirit with Apple picking (different varieties based on the date), apple cider, donuts, a corn maze and more. On the weekends, enjoy live shows and food trucks in addition to their regular restaurant and gift shop.
Location: Approximately one hour driving from Chicago to northeast Indiana. County Line Orchard, 200 S County Line Rd, Hobart, IN 46342
Pro Tip: Dress weather appropriate and boots or good durable shoes for walking around on an orchard. Bring the whole family and get the full pass to ride the kids moo choo train as well as some feed for the goats and other animals.
Fall Fest at Bengtson’s
There’s something for everyone at Bengtson’s: a classic pumpkin patch, rides, petting zoo, pig racing and more. This is one of the most fun attractions in Chicagoland - enjoy the pumpkin chucker, live music, food trucks and more.
Location: Approximately one hour driving southwest from Chicago, located at 13341 W 151st St, Homer Glen, IL 60491.
Pro Tip: Leave the city early in the morning to spend the day at this fun fall activity near Chicago. Check the website for their schedule of events.
Embrace the autumn spirit and explore all that Chicago has to offer! As you soak in the sights, sounds, and activities of the season, you'll find that fall in Chicago is truly an experience to be savored. Try the Chicago Crime Tour or the Night Crimes Tour in addition to these fun fall Chicago activities.