While there is still some nice weather to be enjoyed in the city I put together a list of things to do in Chicago this fall. Chicago is known for it’s extreme weather. The summers can be stifling hot (this past summer was an anomaly if you ask me) and the winters can be blistery cold. But the fall, ah the fall, can have some of the most beautiful weather you could ask for. We tend to enjoy an indian summer until about mid October before the really cold temperatures and rain set in.
Apple Picking/ Pumpkin Patch
An American fall tradition, fall just begs for someone to enjoy the gorgeous Chicago weather out on the orchards or pumpkin patches. Most orchards are a good drive from the city so plan ahead. The good thing about most orchards as that they will have things like corn mazes and other activities to make the drive more worth it. Make sure to check ahead to see if apples are ripe for the picking. Also, make sure there are no die hard football fans in your group, they may not be too happy giving up their Saturday or Sunday football day to go pick some fruit. A good site to check for apple or pumpkin picking is http://www.pickyourown.org/ILchicago.htm
Neighborhood Walk
Most people think of the Loop ofrthe Magnificent Mile when they think of Chicago, but the city has so much more to offer and a walking tour is a great way to see it. I enjoy self-guided tours when visiting cities so that we can go at our own pace and concentrate on the bits that really interest us, but there are many places that offer guided tours as well. A quick google search of “Chicago walking tours” brings up a plethora of options.
Architecture Tour
Chicago has great architecture and you can enjoy it in many ways. Since the weather is still relatively warm you can enjoy a river architecture tour without melting in the heat. I recommend the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s tours since their docents are all volunteers and are genuinely happy to be there. The CAF also offers walking, biking, train, “L” and segway tours. Also, check out Chicago Detours for a fun and off the beaten path experience, even for locals.
A Museum on a rainy day
Some days just can’t be as nice as the beautiful ones and on those days I recommend a stop at a museum! My favorite museum in Chicago is hands-down the Field Museum. it has great exhibits and is pretty easy to get to since it is part of the famed ‘Museum Campus’. Another great museum to check out is the Museum of Science and Industry. If you’re more into art than science, check out the Art Institute. Or if you prefer a Chicago centric museum check out the Chicago History Museum.
Visit a Zoo
You may avoid some of the summer crowds, you’ll definitely avoid the terrible heat. Chicago is home to Lincoln Park Zoo and in the nearby suburbs Brookfield Zoo is a short drive or train ride from the city. Lincoln Park Zoo is within the city and is free to visit. In terms of size, it’s not terribly large and exhibits are close to each other. If you want a full day at the zoo then head out to Brookfield Zoo, which you can drive to or take the Burlington Northern train line from Union station in Chicago.
Have anything you think is a must do during the fall in Chicago? Let us know in the comments.
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Hi! I’m Daina. I am an Underwater and Drone Photographer and Videography. I use visuals of the ocean as a spark to ignite the soul to create a connection with our natural environments. 
