10 Cozy Fall Activities to Try This October

Crisp air, colorful leaves, and the smell of apple cider in the breeze – October is when the western suburbs of Chicago truly shine. It’s the perfect time to slow down, soak it all in, and savor everything the season has to offer. To get you ready for October, we have curated a list of fun fall activities for you to try!

1. Stroll the Naperville Riverwalk in Full Fall Color

Take in the vibrant reds, golds, and oranges as you walk along the scenic Riverwalk. Grab a fall flavored coffee from Sparrow Coffee or Sweetwaters and enjoy a crisp afternoon by the DuPage River. Don't forget to snap a few photos on the iconic covered bridge! 

2. Visit a Local Pumpkin Patch

You can't do fall without a proper pumpkin patch visit. Kellers Farmstand in Oswego, Abbey Farms in Aurora, Bronkberry Farms in Plainfield, and Heap’s Giant Pumpkin Farm in Minooka are local favorites, offering everything from pick-your-own pumpkins and hayrides to corn mazes and delicious apple cider donuts. 

3. Explore the Morton Arboretum in Lisle

Fall at The Morton Arboretum is a favorite season for visitors, drawing guests from near and far to experience the vibrant changing colors of the woodlands and tree collections. Enjoy seasonal events and treats like apple cider doughnuts from the Arbor Court concessions tent, explore the giant acorns in the Children’s Garden, and wander through the leaf-covered paths of the Maze Garden. Don’t miss their fall events like their Cider and Ale Festival on October 4th and their Glass Pumpkin event from October 10-12th!

4. Cozy Up at a Local Coffee Shop

Wheaton's Five & Hoek, Maple Leaf Roasters Coffeehouse in St. Charles, or Ten Drops in Plainfield are perfect spots to settle in with a good book and a hot drink. Try a seasonal latte – maple, cinnamon, or pumpkin spice – and enjoy the tasty season of fall.

5. Enjoy a Fall Festival or Craft Fair

Many local towns host charming fall fests. Check out the Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival open daily at Johansen Farms in Bolingbrook and Pumpkin Daze every Saturday and Sunday until October 30th at Abbey Farms in Aurora. Also, you won’t want to miss St. Charles’ Scarecrow Weekend from October 10-12th! Expect live music, handmade goods, seasonal treats, and fun for the whole family.

6. Take a Scenic Bike Ride or Nature Hike

The Illinois Prairie Path, Fox River Trail, and Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville offer peaceful trails lined with changing leaves. Whether you're hiking or biking, bring layers and a thermos of hot cider.

7. Visit a Haunted House or Take a Ghost Tour

Looking for chills and thrills? Check out Basement of the Dead in Aurora – consistently ranked as one of the scariest haunts in Illinois. Prefer something a little tamer? Try a local ghost walk - like the Naperville Hauntings Ghost Walk or the Aurora Hauntings Ghost Walk by American Ghost Walks, known across the U.S. for their captivating tours filled with haunted history, chilling legends, and local lore. Spooky fun for the whole family!

8. Make a Pie with Local Apples

Hit up a local orchard like Kuipers Family Farm for fresh-picked apples. Then head home and bake a warm apple pie – or keep it easy and grab a fresh one from DeEtta’s Bakery or Fiene’s Bakery in Naperville.

9. Take a Day Trip to a Nearby Winery or Brewery

Wineries like Fox Valley Winery in Oswego, Geneva Winery & Tasting Room, or Acquaviva in Maple Park offer tastings with a view of the fall countryside. Prefer hops? Try Alter Brewing in Downers Grove or Two Brothers Roundhouse in Aurora for seasonal brews like pumpkin ales and Oktoberfest lagers.

10. Take a Fall Cooking or Craft Class at a Local Studio

Spend a chilly October afternoon learning something new indoors. Try a fall-themed cooking class (like homemade pasta or pie baking) at places like Marcel’s Culinary Experience in Glen Ellyn or a DIY workshop at Board & Brush Creative Studio in Oswego. It’s a fun way to get creative, meet people, and bring a little autumn inspiration home with you.

No matter how you choose to spend it, October in the western suburbs is full of charm, color, and seasonal magic. So bundle up, grab your favorite fall drink, and start checking off your October bucket list – these cozy activities won't be around forever!