Now that we’re settling into autumn, let’s run through some of the local pumpkin patches, apple orchards, and fall festivals that are worth checking out this season.

✔️ Abbey Farms' Pumpkin Daze (Aurora): Running daily through October 30, this festival features a corn maze, zip lines, a petting zoo and even a corn cannon (I’d never heard of that?). For you adults —there will be a craft beer tent and plenty of live music.

✔️ Goebbert's Farm (Pingree Grove): Open daily through Halloween, Goebbert's is pulling out all the stops with a Pumpkin Express train, a haunted house, and apple picking — plus Oktoberfest the weekend of September 19 and live bands every Friday night.

✔️ Kuipers Family Farm (Maple Park): Kuipers is serving up their annual slice of family paradise through November 2. Get ready for apple picking, a pumpkin patch, farm animals, a mountain slide, combine playgrounds, a corn maze, and regular live entertainment.

✔️ Windy Acres Farm (Geneva): With over five acres of fall festivities and 40+ attractions — plus live music, a beer garden, live music, and a zipline — you might have to come back for more than just one weekend. Open through Halloween.

✔️ Fox River Trolley Museum's Ghost Train (South Elgin): For something a little different, hop aboard the Ghost Train on select Saturdays in October. Don your favorite Halloween costume if you’re feeling squirrely.

✔️ Sonny Acres Farm (West Chicago): Classic fall family fun with amusement rides, hayrides and bounce houses. Plus apples are in season for picking — and they’ve got an outdoor restaurant. Open through October 30.

✔️ Tom's Farm Market (Huntley): Head over to Tom's beginning on September 27 for a proper autumn experience. In addition to dozens of activities, you can get your pumpkins, mums, and gourds — or hit up their bakery and cafe.

✔️ Keller's Farmstand (Oswego): Take advantage of some of the best apple picking in the area, but don’t forget about their pumpkin patch, corn maze, and a variety of additional fall activities. The fall fest happens Saturday and Sunday through October 26.

✔️ Woody's Orchard (Plano): Tons of activities — from apple picking for the whole family to slides and obstacle courses for the kids — make Woody’s a worthwhile fall destination. Don’t forget to try the apple cider (and apple cider donuts) while you’re there. Open through October 27.

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