A Guide to Celebrating Fall in Chicago
As the leaves begin to change and temperatures drop, Chicago transforms into a vibrant autumn wonderland. For DePaul students, fall is the perfect time to explore the city and enjoy seasonal activities. Whether you’re looking for pumpkin-flavored treats or spooky experiences, here are some great ways to make the most of the fall season.
Start your fall adventures with a stop at Foxtrot, a popular local market and café. Their pumpkin spice latte is a seasonal favorite, perfect for warming up on a crisp autumn morning before heading to class. With locations close to both the Lincoln Park and Loop campuses, it’s a convenient (and delicious) way to fuel your fall day. Many other coffee shops have great seasonal options, like Philz Coffee, La Colombe, Hero Coffee, and Dollop! I just tried Ralph’s Coffee, and it was delicious! Another recommendation is Oud in River North!
For a classic fall experience, head to Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up, located at 1265 W Le Moyne St in Goose Island. This interactive fall festival features Chicago’s largest corn maze, carnival games, pumpkin picking, and even axe throwing. You can enjoy Instagram-worthy photo ops, food trucks, and seasonal ciders & cocktails. General admission starts at $20, with options to add extras like drinks and pumpkins to your experience. Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up is open from September 21st to November 5th.
One of the most beautiful ways to celebrate fall in the city is by taking a walk through Chicago’s historic Gold Coast neighborhood. Lined with stately homes, tree-lined streets, and vibrant fall foliage, it’s the perfect backdrop for a peaceful afternoon stroll. I like to grab a coffee and wander through the neighborhood, enjoying the rich history and stunning autumn scenery. It’s also a great place to take some cute Instagram pictures! Lincoln Park is another favorite of mine!
For those looking for a thrill, fall in Chicago offers plenty of haunted attractions. Six Flags Great America’s Fright Fest is just a short drive from the city and runs through October. This Halloween event transforms the park with haunted houses, scare zones, and spooky rides—perfect for adrenaline-seekers. Closer to campus, you can find haunted houses throughout the city, offering a spooky way to celebrate the season. I recently went to the Massacre Haunted House in Montgomery, and I had the BEST time.
Fall is a lively time at DePaul, with campus events and activities in full swing. Whether you’re heading to a basketball game down at Wintrust Area or joining a fall-themed event on the Quad, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season without leaving campus. Be sure to check out DeHub and social media for updates on what’s happening on both campuses!
Fall in Chicago offers a unique mix of seasonal treats, beautiful scenery, and fun activities. Whether you’re new to the city or a seasoned DePaul student, take advantage of all that fall has to offer and make some great autumn memories!
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—- Saira