Illinois: Chicago is a great place to visit in the fall

Chicago is a wonderful place to visit in the fall. The heat and humidity of the summer have gone and the air is crisp and cool. The wind may be whipping off of Lake Michigan so hang on to your hat and watch the bright leaves as they swirl through the air.

In the fall, there are plenty of farmers markets all over the city that will provide fresh fruits and vegetables plus all the items you will need to decorate for fall. There is nothing like a crispy apple or a piece of spicy pumpkin pie to set the mood for a perfect fall weekend.

The Chicago Botanic Garden will have many special events throughout the fall. Be sure to check their event calendar. Among the many events is a costume parade for pooches and lots more in October and the Holiday Market on December 6 from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. There is always something happening at the Botanic Garden.



The Lincoln Park Zoo is a Chicago favorite and it is free. In the fall you can enjoy Fall Fest which will include a corn maze and hay rides as well as some attractions that require tickets and Spooky Zoo Spectacular which will include shows, trick or treating, and other family activities.

If you are going to be in Chicago on Halloween or anytime for that matter make reservations to take the Chicago Haunting Tour. Rated one of the top ten ghost tours in the country, there is no better time of year to find out about all the spectral sightings that Chicago has to offer. You can't miss the black Haunting's Bus which you will meet across the street from the Hard Rock Cafe.

Chicago knows how to celebrate Oktoberfest and St. Alphonsus Church is the location to be for an authentic German Experience. September 25-27 you can enjoy homemade brats, live German music and plenty of cold beer.

The Magnificent Mile Light Festival takes place the Saturday before Thanksgiving. It is the kick-off event of the holiday shopping season. Hundreds of thousands of lights will be twinkling and there are activities for all members of the family.

Some of the stores will have their holiday window displays in place and the Parade is sure to please everyone. For many families, it is a holiday tradition. After the parade watch the fireworks that take place along the Chicago River.

Join over 300,000 other visitors who will enjoy the Chicago Christkindlmarket beginning the weekend after Thanksgiving and running through Christmas Eve. Entertainment is featured, the Annual Christmas Tree lighting, and a children's lantern parade. You can shop at the booths, eat traditional holiday foods and get into the spirit of the upcoming Holidays.  

Yes, fall is a great time to visit Chicago and these are just a few of the special events that will be taking place. You can always visit the Art Institute, The Shedd Aquarium, The Field Museum and the Navy Pier. Book your accommodations early as this is a popular time of the year to visit Chicago.