Mikayla Price

There’s no better morning pick-me-up than a sweet and satisfying donut. Chicago's top brunch spots are always stellar, but sometimes you just want a quick bite to enjoy on the go. The city’s best donut shops are happy to oblige with a variety of treats. Visit Doughnut Vault for classics that never go out of style, like a buttermilk old fashioned, or head to Beacon Doughnuts for creative offerings that are constantly rotating. Fried dough is also represented in several forms, including churros, paczki and beignets. Make sure to get to these places early, though, unless you want to be left sad and empty handed because they often sell out quickly. And don’t forget to pair that donut with a cup of Joe from your favorite coffee shop. So check out our guide to the finest donut shops in Chicago and bring a box of delights to work to become everyone’s new bestie. RECOMMENDED: Discover the most amazing bakeries in Chicago

There’s no surer sign that fall is coming than seeing pumpkins everywhere—whether used in fancy coffee drinks, recipes or just as decorations, pumpkins are the ubiquitous symbol of autumn. Maybe you don’t love pumpkin spice lattes or pumpkin pies, but it’s hard to deny the appeal of choosing your own gourd at a pumpkin patch. All of the farms and pumpkin patches on this list are within a two hour drive from the city (one is even in Chicago), and bursting with fall fun. After you’ve picked out a jack-o’-lantern, spend the day exploring creative corn mazes, eating apple cider donuts and checking out fall foliage. RECOMMENDED: Your complete guide to fall in Chicago