Well, it’s about that time darker mornings, earlier sunsets, shorter days, and yes, the unpredictable temperatures of autumn in the Midwest!
If you’re like me, you’re trying to squeeze as much outdoor time out of these months as possible. We all know that Mother Nature can toy with our emotions this time of year – providing glorious sunny, warm weather one day and slapping us with freezing rain the next. I guess what I’m saying is, “Get out there while the getting’s good!”
To truly enjoy fall, one must come to terms with the fact that it’s really pretty basic. Fall isn’t cool or earth-shattering, it’s about getting back to our roots, moving past our trendy idealism, and embracing it for the simple pleasures it can provide.
That’s why we at Chicago Home Partner have conducted extensive research to find only the best ways for you to “get your Fall on” this autumn and maximize your fun. From corn mazes and apple picking to pig races and pumpkins, we’ve got you covered, just check out the list below to find an activity that fits you and your favorite people best.
Don't forget our 12th annual Pumpkin Carving Contest is next month, so while you’re out there, start stocking up on holiday gourds to carve up for the contest. We’ve got additional categories, prizes, and more in store this year so stock up!
Chicagoland Autumn Farm Fun
Bengston’s Pumpkin Farm
13341 W 151st St Homer Glen, Illinois 60491
Attractions: Pony Rides, Hayrack Rides, Petting Zoo, Pumpkin Launcher and pick your own pumpkins
CHP Insights: The trip to Bengston is half pumpkin farm half Great America/Local Carnival. Rides abound and things for the kiddos so plan on being out there for a great part of the day. Some seriously good BBQ and staples like cider and funnel cakes are available as well so arrive hungry.
Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch
42W813 Reinking Road, Hampshire, IL 60140
Attractions: Pig Racing, Bouncy House, Farm stand produce, and even a giraffe barn.
CHP Insights: A little bit more on the “farm” side of the equation (but not much!) Goebbert’s has been around forever and is a staple in many pumpkin-farming eyes. Plenty of fun for the kiddos and home-grown organic produce available for purchase makes this a must-go for many every year.
Didier Farms
16678 W. Aptakisic Rd., Lincolnshire, IL 60069
Attractions: Corn Mazes, Inflatable Fun, Animal Rides and Pig Races
CHP Insights: This Lincolnshire staple has been entertaining families for many years with its Autumn-themed attractions and pumpkin fun. Pig races on the weekend can be worth the trip alone and allow for some adult wagering along the sidelines. Plenty of smaller-scale fun for kiddos and farmstand/pumpkin setups for mom and dad.
Odyssey Fun Farm
18900 Oak Park Ave, Tinley Park, IL
Attractions: Hay Maze, Pumpkin picking, Zip lines, Corn cannons, and Petting zoo
CHP Insights: Country farms not your thing? How about taking a small-town carnival and making it pumpkin-themed? That’s about what you’ll get at this south side “farm”. Where else can you select some pumpkins, ride a zip line, blast ears of corn and even fight zombies with paintball guns? Not for the “refined” palate, but tons of fun for the rest of us!
Thompson’s Strawberry Farm
14000 75th St, Bristol, WI 5310
Attractions: Pumpkins, Pumpkins, Pumpkins (in bulk!)
CHP Insights: Looking to deck out your new single-family home and become the envy of the neighborhood this Fall? Look no further than this Bristol, WI farm where you can pick your own gourds in bulk! That’s right – they charge by the car/truckload and allow you to decorate to your heart’s content. No frills, no rides just a beautiful farm in southern Wisconsin with tons and tons of different pumpkins!
