As a kid the falling leaves only meant one thing to me, jumping in the piles of them 🍂! Today I find the changing colors absolutely amazing and I find myself pulling over the car to snap photos of the vibrant leaves turning red and gold. With the limited things to do with the pandemic these days, why not make a mini family road trip to see the colors. Pro tip: bring a tripod and take some snaps to update those frames. Whether you want to take a drive for a couple of hours or you want to make it a weekend getaway there are plenty of options around to Chicago to see the beautiful fall color. Mid October is generally the peak of fall color for Chicagoland.
In The City
- Lincoln Park & South Pond Bridge – Head to Lincoln Park and see the beautiful fall leaves around South Pond. For the best photo opportunities stand on the South Pond bridge looking South towards downtown. Or head near the Lincoln Park Zoo entrance by Cafe Brauer! While you are here maybe have lunch with family on their outdoor patio or visit the Lincoln Park Zoo! Fall Fest is going on now at the Zoo Saturday and Sunday 10a-5pm.
- Millennium Park and Cloud Gate- Have you been downtown lately? Take the kids on a city adventure and ride the EL, Metra, or Bus into town. See the colorful leaves at Millennium Park. While you are there if the weather is nice play a round of mini golf or expend some energy at the playground!
Lisle
Morton Arboretum
4100 Rte. 53
Lisle IL 60532
While the weather is pleasant grab the family bikes and put on your walking shoes! The Morton Arboretum is an excellent family funday option. Explore the expansive gardens and the beautiful fall foliage. There is a separate children’s garden where the kids can play and learn about nature. Pack a picnic or enjoy lunch at the cafe! Members do not need reservations. Reservations are required for non-members. Open daily 7am-sunset. $16 for adults, $11 for children, Free for children 2 and under.
Galena
Less than 3 hours from Chicago, located on the Mississippi River is Galena, Illinois. A trip to Galena would be ideal if you have older kids interested or learning about United States History in school. Learn about the former President and U.S. General, Ulysses S. Grant while visiting both the Grant Museum and Grant’s Home. Visit Argyle Lake State Park and take a hike on over 5 miles of trail through the colorful forest. Looking for a little more of an adventure? Through the end of October you can take a canopy tour which includes 6 zip lines at Long Hollow Canopy Tours. The canopy tour costs $92 per person. Online reservations recommended.
Enjoy Chicago,
Juliana