Can you believe Fall is just around the corner? I love summer, but wow, do I LOVE fall. The crisp air and cooler nights we look forward to after a hot, humid summer are going to be here before we know it. Even if you’re holding onto every last day of summer (like me!) the good news, is you don’t have to look far for spectacular fall colors near Chicagoland. A little bit of know-how can help you savor the season’s brilliant hues in all their glory.
First up: Advice for admiring fall colors from The Morton Arboretum. After that, keep reading for a round-up of our favorite local destinations for admiring fall foliage. Finally, scroll to the bottom for a free printable of common local leaves that fall in our neighborhoods so you can go on a leaf hunt, too!
Expert Tips for Admiring the Changing Colors in Fall
Spencer Campbell is the Senior Manage of Natural Areas at The Morton Arboretum. We spoke to him for some great tips on catching these ephemeral displays of beauty.
When do leaves start changing colors in Chicagoland?
Campbell says that leaves usually begin changing colors in late September. The weather affects exactly when.
“Bright, sunny days and cool nights will start to initiate this transition from the growing season to the dormant season,” he says.
Look out for for sun-drenched autumn days combined with cool nights around 50 degrees, which provide the right conditions for trees to begin changing colors.
When is the best time during the fall to see fall colors?
Different trees change color at different times, so enjoy the variations throughout the season, which Campbell says usually continues until the first or second week of November.
Sumac shrubs begin changing in September, followed by maples with bright oranges and yellows. The season culminates with oaks in the middle of October, or even into November, depending on the weather.
The sights can change by the day. For example, Campbell says ginkgo trees, which turn a spectacular “creamy yellow school bus color,” drop their leaves very quickly once they start. “When they decide to go, it’s usually over within 24 hours,” he says. One day, ginkgo trees are full of yellow; the next, its bare branches.
You can also check out this fall foliage prediction map from smokymountains.com
How can you tell which trees are changing colors in Illinois right now?
If there’s a particular tree whose colors you love, keep an eye out for it in your own neighborhood. Our leaf guide below can help you find common trees with beautiful displays of color.
The arboretum also puts out weekly fall color reports beginning in September, helping visitors know when they can find particular trees at their most vibrant. Additionally, Campbell says that anyone can call The Morton Arboretum Plant Clinic at (630) 719-2424 for “up-to-the-minute” updates on color.
The clinic is always happy to answer questions on plants for the public, too. They take questions about plants and trees (about 18,000 a year!) from all around the world. You can call, email, or walk into the clinic, which is right across from the restaurant in the main visitor’s center.
Where are the best places to see fall color in Chicagoland?
While Campbell is understandably partial to the Arboretum, which he says has “one of the best displays of fall colors in northern Illinois,” he says that we’re lucky to live in an area with many great changing colors.
Local forest preserves are great places to walk through and find beautiful colors. (Keep reading for our round-up of our own favorite locales!) Campbell says that the Greene Valley Forest Preserve’s scenic overlook is one he particularly enjoys for a panoramic view of the colors for miles around.
Another great location? Right where you live. “It’s a great opportunity to explore and become more invested in what’s growing locally, in your own neighborhood.”
We hope these tips help you and your family explore fall in Chicagoland! Keep reading for local places to visit, plus our guide to common local leaf types.
Best Places to Find Fall Colors in Chicagoland
Where to See Fall Colors If You’re Up for a Drive
Fall Leaf Hunt Download
There’s nothing more fun for little autumn explorers than searching for colorful leaves! Our handy leaf guide illustrates all the common leaves found in the Midwest to take along on your adventure, similar to that of a scavenger hunt. It’s perfect for a walk around the neighborhood or in the forest preserve. Try to find all the leaves on the page!
Click here to download the Leaf Hunt PDF printable, or click on the image below to be taken to a higher resolution version.
In search of more fall fun? Head over to our Fall Activities for Kids page! Does your family have a favorite place to see fall colors that we missed? Let us know in the comments below so we can add to our list!
