Things to do in Chicago in the Fall

Chicago, Illinois is a great city to visit, especially in the fall when the weather becomes cooler and the air is refreshing. With the Chicago Theatre, the Field Museum, Millennium Park, the Willis/Sears Tower, the Shedd Aquarium, and dozens of museums, there are plenty of places to go in Chicago.

If you are looking for events and festivals happening this fall, Chicago has much to offer.

Double Decker Bus Tours:
On a cool Chicago day there is nothing like a double decker bus tour to see the city. With both open air seating on the second floor, and covered seating on the first, a double decker bus tour is a great way to see the city and learns about its history and local attractions.

Visit the Shedd Aquarium:
Periodically in the fall, the Shedd Aquarium will offer free general admission to the aquarium. The Shedd Aquarium contains over 25,000 fish and has exhibits such as Amazon Rising, Caribbean Reef, Waters of the World, the Oceanarium and Wild Reef. This aquarium also has a Polar Play Zone for children and Fantasea, their new aquatic show.

First Thursdays:
Visit Chicago's galleries in the River North, the West Loop, and the Fulton Market neighborhoods on the first Thursday of every month until December 3rd. The art galleries stay open until 7pm and offer refreshments. The event is free and details can be found on the Art Dealers Association of Chicago's website.

Sleepy Hollow Show:
Spend an afternoon at the Morton Arboretum watching scenes from "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," Washington Irving's tale of the headless horsemen. The outdoor show occurs each Saturday and Sunday at 3pm until November 1st. Tickets are $15-$25 and a great way to enjoy Chicago's fall air. Remember to bring a lawn chair or a blanket in case it gets chilly.

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival & Parade:
If you are visiting Chicago on November 21st, be sure to attend the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival & Parade. If you're staying at a Magnificent Mile hotel, you're in luck! The parade is on Michigan Avenue and goes from Oak Street to the Chicago River. It starts at 6pm with Mickey Mouse and his friends leading the parade.

Maxwell Street Market:
Every Sunday from 7am to 3pm, the Maxwell Street Market on Desplaines Street and Roosevelt Road is a great place to buy odds and ends. The open-air flea market has more than 500 vendors selling produce, authentic meals, household goods, jewelry, and CDs. Maxwell Street has been called "The Ellis Island of the Midwest" because it was a destination for immigrants from the 1880s to the 1980s.

Daley Plaza Santa's House:
If you have children and you love Christmas, take them to visit Santa at the Daley Plaza Santa's House. From November 24th to December 24th, children can visit Santa from 11am to 8pm. Admission is free and children can take pictures Jolly Old St. Nick.

Chicago is a large metropolitan area with many museums, historic landmarks, and art performances. This city has festivals and shows held each day of the week. Before taking a trip, search online to find special events happening during your stay. While you're searching you might want to also do a search for Chicago hotel packages.

As you can see there is a lot to do in the fall. Pack your bags, reserve your Chicago boutique hotel room and get ready to explore the Windy City!