Admission to Blackberry Farm includes unlimited rides on the train, hay wagon, pedal tractors, paddle boats, carousel and ponies. (Photo courtesy of Blackberry Farm)
Chicago isn’t the only spot with a claim on fall fun. The nearby suburbs offer a cornucopia of seasonal activities from pumpkin patches to Oktoberfest celebrations. Below is a curated guide to some of the most enchanting autumn events just outside the city. YOU are welcome!
Abbey Farms Pumpkin Daze – Aurora, IL
Dates: Now through October 30, 2025
Location: 2855 Hart Road, Aurora, IL
Immerse yourself in the quintessential fall experience at Abbey Farms. Navigate the expansive corn maze, enjoy hayrides, and explore the petting zoo. For a touch of adventure, try the zipline or challenge yourself with the night maze on select Saturdays. Tickets range from $17 to $23, with children under 2 admitted for free. (abbeyfarms.org)
Blackberry Farm Pumpkin Weekends – Aurora, IL
Dates: Saturdays & Sundays, October 4–26, 2025
Location: 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora, IL
Step back in time at Blackberry Farm's historic village setting. Engage in pumpkin painting, enjoy pony rides, and partake in seasonal crafts. Each guest aged 1 and up requires a ticket, available for $10. (Blackberry Farm)
Chicago Botanic Gardens "Night of 1,000 Jack-o-Lanterns." (Chicago Botanic Garden photo by Robin Carlson)
Fitzgerald’s Fall Fair – Berwyn, IL
Dates: Saturdays & Sundays, October 5–26, 2025 (excluding October 4)
Location: 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn, IL
Experience a cozy, free community fair featuring live music, local vendors, and family-friendly activities. RSVP is recommended to ensure entry. (Facebook)
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Johansen Farms Children’s Zoo & Fall Festival – Bolingbrook, IL
Dates: September 15–October 31, 2025
Location: 710 W. Boughton Road, Bolingbrook, IL
Delight in a petting zoo, corn maze, and enjoy seasonal treats. All rides and attractions are free with paid zoo admission, including pony rides offered on weekends. (johansenfarms.com)
Naperville Oktoberfest – Naperville, IL
Dates: October 3–4, 2025
Location: Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster Street, Naperville, IL
Celebrate Bavarian culture with authentic food, music, and games. Adults can enjoy a variety of beers, while families can partake in activities like stein-holding contests and foot darts. (napersettlement.org)
Long Grove Apple Fest – Long Grove, IL
Dates: October 10–12, 2025
Location: Historic Downtown Long Grove, IL
Savor apple-themed treats, enjoy live music, and explore family activities in a charming historic village setting. (longgrove.org)
Night of 1,000 Jack-O’-Lanterns – Glencoe, IL
Dates: October 8–26, 2025
Location: Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL
Experience over 1,000 hand-carved pumpkins illuminating the garden paths. A magical evening for all ages. (Chicago Botanic Garden)
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