Fall activities in Chicago

Oct 13, 2022

Autumn in Illinois is a gorgeous time to explore all the different activities Chicago has to offer, especially with the colorful leaves as your backdrop! From festivals celebrating the harvest to the natural beauty of the area, there's no shortage of things to do.

Whether you're looking for a date night idea, something to do with the family or a fun retirement activity, we've got you covered. Here are some of our favorite fall activities in Chicago!

Attend Chicago Fall Festivals and Seasonal Events

It's not too late to visit the Chicago fall festivals at local farms and pumpkin patches! These events are usually held throughout September and October, and offer a variety of activities, such as hayrides, corn mazes, petting zoos, and of course, plenty of pumpkins!

Some of the most popular fall festivals in Chicago include:


But even if Halloween is over, some of these farms offer pies for pickup during the holiday season and other events in the year.

And once November arrives, there's a whole other host of Chicago festivals to enjoy, such as:


Take a Scenic Fall Drive Near Chicago

The weather may be turning too chilly for hiking through nature,  but that doesn't mean you can't still enjoy the scenic views! A drive through the country is the perfect way to see the autumn leaves without having to leave the comfort of your car.

One of the most popular Chicago drives for leaf-peeping in Illinois is on a 150 mile stretch of scenic byways on Illinois River Road. Francis Road near Will County’s Potawatomi Woods Forest Preserve is also a great option. And taking Wolf Road into the Hickory Creek Forest Preserve is sure to be a breathtaking experience!

If you're looking for a more urban activity, driving through the city to see all the different trees is also a great option. Lincoln Park and Millennium Park are two of the most popular spots to see fall foliage.

Indulge in Autumn-Inspired Cuisine in the Windy City

If you’re taking a drive into the city, you might as well have some festive fall fare! The Chicago area may be known for its deep dish pizza and hot dogs, but did you know that there are also plenty of great places to get autumn-inspired cuisine?

From apple cider donuts at Curtis Orchard to Cranberry Wine at Galena Cellars and seasonal menus at some of the city's most popular restaurants, there's no shortage of options when it comes to fall food in Chicago.

Fall Events at Chicago Museums and Theaters

Museums and theaters are in full swing this time of year with a variety of exhibitions and performances to choose from. This can be a great opportunity to escape the weather and enjoy some indoor activities.

Some of the most popular museums and theaters in Chicago include:


Each of these have their own lineup of fall events, so be sure to check their websites to see what's happening during your visit.

Overstreet Builders: Your Chicagoland Luxury Home Builder

Now that you've got some ideas for things to do this fall, it's time to start planning your move to the area! Overstreet Builders specializes in luxury homes in the Chicago suburbs. We offer new construction in both Signature Neighborhoods and on your lot locations.

Our team of experienced designers and builders will work with you to craft the home of your dreams. And with over 60 years of experience in the industry, you can rest assured that your new home will be built to premium standards. If you're ready to start planning your move to the Chicago suburbs, contact us today!