Cute Fall Things to Do in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicagoland

Written By Sararose Krenger
Cute Fall Things to Do in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicagoland

Photography by Jacob Little.

There’s something magical about fall in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Crisp mornings, golden leaves drifting down tree-lined streets, and cozy small-town vibes make this season one of the best times to explore. Whether you’re looking for family fun, a romantic date, or just a cozy solo afternoon, there are so many ways to celebrate autumn close to home.

Here’s your curated list of cute fall things to do in the northwest suburbs — think pumpkin farms, apple cider, boutique shopping, and outdoor beauty.

1 Visit a Pumpkin Patch or Farm

Spending a day at a local farm is the quintessential fall activity. From hayrides to corn mazes, it’s a chance to embrace the season’s magic.

  • All Seasons Orchard (Woodstock) – Apple and pear picking, pumpkin patches, hayrides, and corn mazes.

  • Kuipers Family Farm (Maple Park) – apple picking, cider donuts, and fall photo ops galore.

  • Edwards Apple Orchard (Poplar Grove) - apple picking, pumpkins, cider donuts, farm market shopping.

Cozy tip: Bring home mini pumpkins and style them in baskets on your front porch or coffee table for natural, organic décor.

2 Enjoy Apple Cider & Donuts

Nothing says fall like warm cider paired with a sugary donut. Local favorites include:

  • Long Grove Apple Fest (late September/early October) – apple everything, from cider to apple wine.

  • All Seasons Orchard (Woodstock) – perfect for apple picking + cider donuts fresh from the fryer.

Cozy tip: Pick up an extra jug of cider to warm on your stovetop with cinnamon sticks and cloves for instant fall home vibes.

3 Explore Local Nature Preserves

The northwest suburbs are home to some of the most beautiful fall foliage in the region.

  • Busse Woods (Elk Grove Village) – vibrant leaves, long walking trails, and lakeside views.

  • Deer Grove Forest Preserve (Palatine) – a hidden gem for a cozy fall hike.

  • Chicago Botanic Garden (Glencoe) – gorgeous fall blooms and seasonal displays.

Cozy tip: Pack a thermos of tea, slip on a chunky knit, and make it a slow, mindful walk.

4 Support Local Boutiques & Cafés

Cooler weather is the perfect excuse to wander through charming downtowns like Arlington Heights, Barrington, or Park Ridge.

  • Pop into a boutique for cozy fall fashion.

  • Grab a latte at a local coffee shop (try pumpkin spice made with oat milk + a dash of cinnamon).

  • End the day with dinner at a cozy bistro with twinkle lights.

Cozy tip: Pick up a new fall-scented candle or bouquet of dried flowers from a local shop to bring the season home with you.

Fall in the northwest suburbs is about slowing down, savoring the season, and finding joy in the simple things. Whether you’re apple picking, wandering through boutiques, or just sipping cider under the changing leaves, these moments are what make Chicagoland autumns unforgettable.

Sararose Krenger

Hi! I'm Sararose, a dedicated real estate broker serving the vibrant Chicagoland area. With a rich family history deeply rooted in real estate, property management, investments, and general contracting, I bring a unique blend of experience, insight, and passion to every client's journey.

A Legacy in Real Estate:

Real estate is more than just a profession for me; it's a part of my family's legacy. Growing up in a household where conversations often revolved around properties, investment opportunities, and community service + development, I developed a deep appreciation for the industry from an early age. Hearing stories of my family's successes and challenges in real estate ignited my desire to carry forward their legacy and serve Chicago.

http://sararose.co
Next

Organic & Elevated Fall Entertaining at Home