7 Outdoor Activities to Add to Your Fall 2021 Bucket List

Fall is in full swing, and we’re ready to make the most of the season’s offerings. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy autumn throughout Chicagoland.

Visit the Zoo

Don your best costume at Brookfield Zoo’s Boo! at the Zoo this Saturday or Sunday (October 23 & 24). The event features great photo ops, a haunted hayride, a “creepy” carousel, and, of course, animals galore. The Boo! at the Zoo experience is included with your regular zoo ticket purchase.

Zoo-goers in the city can enjoy unique animals, entertainment, a live DJ, and multiple bars throughout the Lincoln Park Zoo at Adults Night Out: The Great Pumpkin Glow on October 28. The after-hours event will feature a haunted trail, lawn games, and plenty of places to explore. Get your tickets here.

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Get Spooked

Embrace the spooky this season by going to see a scary movie. Head to ChiTown Movies drive-in in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood to catch Halloween favorites like Hocus Pocus and Halloween, as well as popular animated films like Monsters, Inc. and Coco. Reserve your tickets here.

Give Back

This fall, find ways to support your community or important causes by donating your time or resources. Throughout the season, Susan G. Komen hosts races around the region and country benefitting breast cancer research and education. Use your zip code to find the race/walk closest to you, and encourage friends, family, or colleagues to participate with you.

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Take in the Lights

Navy Pier is showcasing 1,000 glowing pumpkins during its month-long Pier Pumpkin Lights event. The fall spectacle features pumpkin pop-up installations around the pier until October 31. Check out more details here.

Go to the Farm

Make new memories with friends and family when you visit Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm in Homer Glen, Illinois. There are 13 rides on the farm, including the Rooster Rodeo track ride, Rockin’ Rabbits, and Barrel Blast. Additional attractions include over 200 farm animals, seemingly endless eats and treats, and many, many pumpkins. Purchase tickets online or at the onsite admissions gate.

Hit the Trails

Take in the sights of autumn foliage at Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods, Illinois. The preserve features 6.5 miles of scenic trails, rare species, stunning natural areas, and rich history, and is designated as a Historic District by the National Register of Historic Places.

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See the Pumpkins

Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-up is back and better than ever. The two-acre expanse is just west of Goose Island and has everything from a corn maze and ax-throwing to food trucks and carnival games. You can even take home a pumpkin! Secure your tickets here and check them out between now and October 31.