The Windy City is one of the best places to visit all year round, knowing there’s always something special in store. But when the leaves turn golden and the weather gets chilly, it adds a unique touch to what Chicago has to offer.

With all the sites to see, you might wonder, what are the best things to do in Chicago in the fall? If so, you’ve come to the right place!

Keep reading for a quick checklist of different ways you can enjoy the city during fall.

Visit Parks

Fall in Chicago usually runs from late September up until early November. So, October is the best time to visit if you’re interested in viewing the parks in the area.

Each park is great on a regular day, but during the fall, it showcases a color and vibe you don’t just see anywhere. It also makes a great place for strolling, taking photos, or sipping warm drinks.

Check Halloween Festivities

Halloween usually comes during the fall, so you will likely come across festivities within the city, especially in popular attractions. It’s also hard to miss, given how grand the locals celebrate it!

Halloween in Chicago means tons of artistic sites and displays, along with tours and festivals of different themes. You can also check out the zoos and await night-time activities on the streets.

See Pumpkin Patches

Chicago features pumpkin patches at the peak of the season. If you make it in time for the festivals, you’re sure to catch these in the area.

Aside from regular pumpkin patches, they also feature a Halloween-themed one, with carved jack-o-lanterns lighting the city after dark.

Go on a Boat Cruise

The fall is a great time to go on a boat cruise if you’re not fond of the hot weather and find the winter too chilly to be in the water. Not only do you get to see the city in awe as the colors shift to oranges and reds, but you also learn more about Chicago’s popular landmarks.

As you go around in the boat, you can also decide what other places to visit once you get off. You can choose what more you want to see as you go through glimpses of them from the water.

Attend a Culinary Festival

The cold weather is a great time to have food and drink to bring people together. It’s also one of the best times to experience the city’s signature events: the Chicago Gourmet.

Here, you can enjoy a plethora of activities centered around food, like a beer festival and burger competition. Moreover, they have other similar events that are just as fun, such as an apple festival and wine and beer tasting experiences.

Watch Theater and Films

If you’re visiting Chicago in the fall, it’s the perfect time to see live theater shows and film fests. You can find lots of exciting shows and theatrical events during this season. At the same time, if you visit in October, you get to witness the longest-running film festival and competition in North America!

Enjoy Chicago in the Fall with These Activities

Make the most out of your trip to Chicago in the fall by looking into seasonal activities around the area. With this, you can ensure you get a good look around the city while allowing yourself to indulge in festivities made for autumn.