Things to do in Chicago in the Fall

Every season of the year in Chicago has something unique to offer, but the fall is especially beautiful. A crisp breeze blows near the lake as the leaves in Millennium Park turn golden, and the city is teeming with fantastic activities and events. Fall in Chicago has something for everyone, whether you want to celebrate Halloween, take in the local architecture, take in the fall colors, pick a bushel of apples, or learn about the urban legends of the city.

Here’s our guide on things to do in Chicago in the fall.

Check out the Fall Colors

Although this city is lovely all year round, the fall is when it truly shines. You can find flashes of fall color anywhere you go, whether you're strolling through a lakefront park or just meandering through a quaint neighborhood's leaf-covered streets. Visit these excellent spots in and around Chicago to view fall colors and do serious leaf peeping:

• Lincoln Park, particularly the area around North Pond and South Pond
• Jackson Park and the gorgeous Garden of the Phoenix
• Millennium Park featured amazing colors in the heart of the city
• Humboldt Park, known for its sprawling lagoons and wildflowers
• Morton Arboretum is just a short train ride away

Celebrate Halloween

Chicago has its own unique way of celebrating Halloween, with spectacular evening spectacles, bright pumpkin displays, exciting parades, eerie ghost tours, Day of the Dead celebrations, and more. See the occasions we're most anticipating this year below:

• Arts in the Dark on State Street and Upside Down Arts in the Dark in Washington Park
• Night of 1,000 Jack-o-Lanterns at the Chicago Botanic Garden
• Northalsted Halloween Parade in Northalsted (aka Boystown)
• Día de los Muertos: Love Never Dies Ball at the National Museum of Mexican Art
• Boo! at the Zoo at Brookfield Zoo

Hop on a fall boat cruise

Get on the water now—not it's too late! Chicago's boat tours continue to operate through the fall, including the Chicago's First Lady, which gives river tours of classic buildings through the end of the season (weather permitting). The specialists at the Chicago Architecture Center lead the tours, and you can BYOB (bring your own blanket!) if you like.

Admire iconic architecture

One of the biggest architecture festivals in the world, Open House Chicago takes place every October and highlights architecturally, culturally, and historically significant locations throughout the city's distinctive districts. Discover what happens behind the scenes in some of Chicago's most impressive buildings, landmarks, members-only clubs, homes, and other places that are typically off limits to the general public.

There are more things to do in Chicago this fall. Check this link to explore more!

Do you need some kitchen inspiration this fall? We've included a simple recipe that is simple to download and can be immediately added to your own cookbook. Let us know what you think!

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