Chicago Fall Colors 2025

If you visit Chicago in mid-October, you'll be greeted by a stunning display of scarlet, orange, and yellow foliage. The city boasts numerous lush parks, gardens, cemeteries, and historic tree-lined streets, all ablaze with vibrant colors. Downtown, you can enjoy the striking contrast between the vivid leaves and the urban skyline. For a more tranquil experience, venture to the outskirts, where serene natural areas await.

Fall Colors in Chicago

Feel the fall vibes in the heart of the concrete jungle at the iconic Millennium Park. The famous Cloud Gate, or "The Bean," is especially enchanting when surrounded by glorious shades of fall. To the north, you'll find Lincoln Park, the largest one in Chicago, with red maples, birches, ashes, and elms aplenty. For unique backgrounds, head to the University of Chicago and view fall colors against the English Gothic architecture. Or choose the historic Graceland Cemetery with a wide variety of trees featuring red oak, black walnut, sycamore, Ohio buckeye, and Norway spruce.

Fall Colors Near Chicago

If you prefer to escape urban sceneries yet remain close to the city, there are plenty of spots within a 30-minute drive from Chicago. Check out vivid foliage at the famous Chicago Botanic Garden and the nearby Potawatomi Woods, both located in Northbrook, just north of the city. Go hiking among the 4,200 types of trees in Morton Arboretum, Lisle, west of Chicago. Or explore the trails of Swallow Cliff Woods, southwest of Chicago.

Chicago Botanic Garden

Visitors flock to the Chicago Botanic Garden year-round, but fall is especially magical. Leaf-peepers can explore vibrant autumn colors across the 27 gardens. Begin your visit at the Visitor Center and stroll to the Plant Science Center, where you'll be surrounded by stunning fall foliage. Ticket prices vary based on factors such as attendance patterns, holidays, events, and weather. The Garden offers 52 free general admission days each year, though preregistration is required, and parking fees are not included. The Garden is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm.

The Morton Arboretum

The Morton Arboretum is an internationally acclaimed botanical garden and research center dedicated to trees. Located about 25 miles from Chicago, it features an award-winning Children's Garden, a Maze Garden, and 16 miles of hiking trails. Whether you're looking for a serene stroll or a lively family adventure, the Arboretum offers a wide range of exhibitions, activities, events, and classes for all ages. Admission is $17 for adults (18-64), $15 for seniors (65+), and $12 for children (2-17), with free entry for infants under 2. Open 365 days a year, the Arboretum welcomes visitors from 7 am to sunset, with the last entry one hour before sunset.

Best Time to See Fall Colors in Chicago

Typically, the peak fall colors emerge in the first two weeks of October or around mid-October. It's advisable to consult the latest forecast when planning your getaway.

Explore additional fall foliage spots throughout Illinois as well.