10+ Things to Do in Chicago in the Fall

Architecture River Cruise - If you love the outdoors and can’t get enough of the cooler weather, then a boat cruise or tour is a smart idea. Try one now before the weather gets too cold!

Art Institute of Chicago - Spend an afternoon at the Art Institute of Chicago, voted the #1 Museum in the World in TripAdvisor’s 2014 Traveler’s Choice Awards.

Chicago’s Museum Campus - Take the kids to explore Chicago’s family-friendly Museum Campus, comprised of the perennially popular Shedd Aquarium, The Field Museum, and Adler Planetarium.

SkyDeck Chicago - Formerly known as Sears Tower, the Willis Tower is the home of the famous Chicago SkyDeck Observatory.

Go for a Relaxing Bike Ride - Enjoy the great outdoors before the chill of winter sets in. Chicago in the fall is perfect for invigorating walks, bike rides, and getting out on Lake Michigan.

Chicago Botanic Garden Events - The beautiful garden is host to lots of fun events this fall season.

Bacon and Beer Classic, Daley Plaza - This event is one for the bacon lovers — which, honestly, probably includes a lot of us.

Great Highwood Pumpkin Festival, Highwood, IL - Check out The Great Highwood Pumpkin Festival, where they will attempt to break the Guinness World Records for the most pumpkins carved in one place.

EXPO CHICAGO, Navy Pier - Chicago’s iconic Navy Pier, known as the lakefront playground, will play host to EXPO CHICAGO, the International Exposition of Contemporary and Modern Art.

Apple Picking - You don’t have to go far outside of the city to suddenly find yourself on a farm or orchard. Just head an hour outside of the city and you’ll find lots of apple orchards, etc.

Go to a Street Festival - Street festivals are the best festivals. Check out one of the many happening in September for a round-up of the ones you can’t miss!

Take in a Cubs or White Sox game — their seasons are winding down this time of year and you never know who will be in the post-season!

The NFL season has also just started, so if you’re a Chicago Bears fan, head to Soldier Field.

Cheer on the runners (or log some miles yourself!) in the Chicago Marathon, held each year in October.

Keep an eye on the concert schedule for the fall. Chicago attracts some pretty huge names so you’ve got a good chance of seeing your favs.

The theatre scene in Chicago is practically unrivalled. Sign up for Gold Star to get discounted tickets on local shows.