5 Fall Activities in Chicago

Fall in Chicago is wonderful—the leaves are changing colors, the breeze is perfectly crisp, and it’s still warm enough to enjoy your time outdoors. Whether you’re traveling for work, with friends, or with family, there are several exciting activities to do during the fall season in the city—it’s really just a matter of making time for them all!

Here are the best ways to spend the season in Chicago, so be sure to check these activities off your to-do list. And, if you run out of time, don’t fear—there’s even more reason to book your next trip now!

The Skydeck at The John Hancock Center

There are some beautiful, breathtaking views in Chicago, and it’s even easier to take in the city’s best sights in the fall season. You can see Chicago from 1,000 feet above ground, where you’ll find historic landmarks, rich architecture, and nature, as found along the lakefront and in the various parks. You can literally see everything. What’s more, you can even sign up for an event or class there, such as yoga, painting, and happy hours.

The Riverwalk

It’s not winter yet—there’s still time to walk along Chicago’s Riverwalk or grab a bite to eat after work with co-workers or friends at the local restaurants. (Or, you can go for drinks at City Winery.) Beyond social purposes, you can also use the Riverwalk as a terrific running spot, where you can go for a morning run or jog before it gets too busy and take in the magnificent views.

Apple Picking

Apples are right in season for all and they come in several varieties, such as gala, honeycrisp, pink lady, fuji, and braeburn. While you can always buy them at the store, it’s way more fun to make an activity of it, and there are a few places in the Chicagoland area where you can grab a basket and pick out a few delicacies yourself.

Try Plank Road Orchard, Heinz Orchard, or Ziegler’s Orchard, among a few other apple picking spots near Chicago. On your way back home, you’ll have a healthy snack for the trip and some leftovers to whip up your favorite apple pie.

Adler Planetarium

Got a passion for outer space and cosmic wonder? Adler Planetarium is the place for you. Not only do they offer fantastic exhibits where you can explore the universe visually, but they also have specific events, like Adler After Dark and Family After Dark, where you have a more interactive and educational experience. Be sure to check the calendar for updates on events, and visit their 60,000 square feet of exhibitions and their two domed theaters to open your mind to science, engineering, and astronomical phenomenon.

Sporting Events

Now that football season has sprung, get tickets to watch the Bears play at Soldier Field—it’s a great way to spend time cheering on your favorite team and enjoying a cold beer and snacks with friends and family. Also, the Chicago Marathon is coming up in October, so be sure to get outdoors and watch the runners go by. It’s a very energetic, positive day in Chicago, where the whole city comes together as one.

Need a place to stay when visiting Chicago? Book your reservation now.