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The best things to do in the fall in Chicago

Admire the leaves, spend a day in a pumpkin patch and pass the afternoon in a beer garden this fall in Chicago.

By Time Out Chicago editors Posted: Wednesday September 9 2020

Fall in Chicago
Photograph: Shutterstock/Nejdet

Fall in Chicago doesn't last for long, but it's easily one of our favorite seasons in the city. There's no better time to take a cool bike ride through the neighborhood or try an Oktoberfest lager at one of the best Chicago breweries. And if you're planning a day trip from Chicago, you might as well add a stop at an apple orchard or a pumpkin patch to the itinerary. While fall in Chicago will be a little different this year, you can still expect some socially-distanced Halloween celebrations and plenty of seasonal treats, like pumpkin pie and hot cider. Not sure how to take advantage of the season before the temperature really starts to drop? Put on a cozy sweater and peruse some of the best things to do in the fall in Chicago.

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Things to do this fall

See the best fall foliage in Chicago
Things to do

See the best fall foliage in Chicago

Grab your camera and take in the vibrant reds and yellows before it's too late.

Go apple picking near Chicago
Things to do

Go apple picking near Chicago

Apple picking near Chicago is plentiful at these easy-to-reach farms.

Get lost at these corn mazes near Chicago
Kids

Get lost at these corn mazes near Chicago

Find fun for the whole family at the best corn mazes within driving distance of Chicago.

Check out pumpkin patches near Chicago
Kids

Check out pumpkin patches near Chicago

Snag the most important jack-o'-lantern supply at patches near the city.

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Catch a fall flick at a drive-in theater
Things to do

Catch a fall flick at a drive-in theater

From horror movies to classic films, there's plenty worthing seeing at Chicago's drive-ins.

Eat the best pies in Chicago
Restaurants

Eat the best pies in Chicago

Whether it's for Thanksgiving dinner or just an average day, here's where to go for a slice.

Take a hike near Chicago
Things to do

Take a hike near Chicago

Hit the trails amid dunes in Indiana or the lush forests of Michigan and central Illinois.

Have a pint in Chicago’s best beer gardens
Bars

Have a pint in Chicago’s best beer gardens

Take a seat outdoord and throw a D.I.Y. Oktoberfest with your friends while the weather holds out.

Slurp the best ramen in Chicago
Restaurants

Slurp the best ramen in Chicago

When there's a chill in the air, there's nothing better than slurping a bowl of broth and noodles.

Warm up at the best coffee shops in Chicago
Restaurants

Warm up at the best coffee shops in Chicago

Get your caffeine fix with pumpkin spice lattes, boozy Irish coffee and dessert-worthy affogatos.