There’s just something about fall that gives you a warm, fuzzy feeling. From the cooling weather to the beautiful colors of the trees and leaves, there’s nothing like taking a walk and enjoying the scenery.
Illinois is known for its picturesque setting full of vibrant autumn colors among the trees. When looking for the best places to visit in Illinois during this time, there are many options. One of the best times to visit is during the second week of October when all the foliage is in full bloom.
Illinois is no stranger to beautiful landscapes. With lush greenery that turns into many different shades of color in the fall, Illinois should be on everyone’s list to visit this time of year. In cool, brisk and breezy weather, walks in the park or sailing in a boat offer the best views and moments to enjoy the scenery. Whether you’re just visiting or looking for a local getaway, there are plenty of awe-inspiring places to suit your needs.
Beautiful colors of yellow, red, brown, green and other shades work together to create a fantastical fairytale environment. Here are 8 of the best places to visit to make lots of memories:
Morton Arboretum
What’s better than an arboretum full of orange, yellow and burgundy trees and leaves? This location offers panoramic views of Meadow Lake and the Midwest Collection. There is a variety of trees including Ginkgo, East Wood, Maple and Oak. Visitors should go to the top of Frost Hill to view the grounds and lake.
Allerton Park and Retreat Center
This picturesque area was designed in 1900 with hundreds of ancient oaks and evergreens lining historic properties. The Mansion and The Evergreen Lodge are part of this area with formal gardens, walking trails to see the colorful vibrancy of the trees and natural prairie. One of the highlights of this location is the historic bridge entrance, surrounded by enormous trees.
Anderson Japanese Gardens
One of the most beautiful Japanese gardens in North America, visitors can enjoy 30 acres of waterfalls, koi-filled ponds, soothing streams and a sense of tranquility. This is a good place to see the beautiful colors and clear the mind.
Chicago Botanical Garden
This special place in Chicago has more than 40,000 trees on display in different shades. Visitors can take a nice walk through the garden or view the entire garden at the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Plant Conservation Science Center.
Millennium Park and Lurie Garden
There’s more to visiting downtown than just shops and things to do. When looking for beautiful, scenic areas with fall foliage, this is one of the most popular places to do so. The leaves changing color so vividly puts this area at the top of the to-do list. With native flowering plants and many trees near the Cloud Gate, this breathtaking experience must be done in person. Romance is in the air and the twin courtyards of the Art Institute of Chicago create the perfect setting.
Galena River Trail
Cyclists get to see the entire landscape of this scenic trail that covers 9 miles. For those who want to take a water excursion, these breathtaking views can be viewed by kayak. The Buehler Preserve is another area that offers beautiful views, or riding the Mississippi River Explorer Cruise shows off another aspect that is just as beautiful.
Starved Rock State Park
13 miles of hiking and walking trails with plenty of fall colors await. One of the most beautiful aspects of this area are the waterfalls, different types of trees and sandstone cliffs. Visitors can take a guided tour so they don’t miss anything, or take a boat ride across the river. Ottawa Canyon and Council Overhang are great ways to enjoy the beauty.
Grandview Drive
There are 4.12 kilometers of absolute beauty on Grandview Drive, also known as the world’s most beautiful drive according to Theodore Roosevelt. There is some truth to this, as it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From the moment you enter the area it is nothing but a beautiful color landscape of historic homes and trees along the Illinois River. Boat tours on the Spirit of Peoria add to the intrigue and beauty of the area.
