AROUND TOWN: Your Guide to a Chicago Fall
In true Midwest fashion, it seems that after just a few months of sunshine, summer has dissolved into fall. While perks of summer, like beachfront cocktails, are less accessible, autumn is one of the most beautiful times to be here in Chicago.
To welcome you to fall and remind you that the fun doesn’t stop, we made a list of fall activities to make this season in Chicago even better than your summer.
Spend the morning at the 606 Trail // Ongoing
If you’re someone who starts to hibernate as soon as the temperature drops, be sure to squeeze in one last outdoor activity this fall -- exploring the 606 Trail. This path runs along the Bloomingdale Trail (1800 N) between Ashland (1600W) and Ridgeway (3750W). A path intended to bring together a common space for bikers and runners, there’s still room for those who would prefer to stroll. Stretching 2.7 miles, this restored rail line has been converted into a trail perfect for viewing the trees turn from green to dazzling hues of red, orange, and yellow.
Sip your morning coffee here and admire the scenery anytime between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m.
Ravenswood Art Walk // September 15th - 16th
From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the Ravenswood Arts Walk will take place, showcasing Ravenswood artists and businesses to live music. (https://ravenswoodartwalk.org/). The event comes decked out with fun for every age; you can sample from nearby craft breweries and taste from food trucks, as well as enjoy kid-friendly activities.
Taking place along Ravenswood Avenue from Irving Park Rd. to Leland, RAW proves that fun doesn’t have to end just because summer has.
Chicago Ideas Week // October 15-21
College students aren’t the only ones learning this fall. Anyone in Chicago has a chance to think differently with the 7th annual Chicago Ideas Week festival, which will be coming to Chicago this October. Not all speakers have been announced, but this year’s festival is sure to be a hit if 2017 attendees like designer Zac Posen and Whole Foods CEO John Mackney are any indication. The best part? Many of the events, occurring at venues like the Harris Theatre, Venue SIX10, and Morningstar, are around $15, making the festival both stimulating and accessible.
3rd Annual Taste of Uptown // September 20th, 6-9 pm
For many of us, colder weather in fall means more cooking inside -- which means you’d better have some inspiration. Look no further than Taste of Uptown, a short food and drink crawl that showcases everything from Ethiopian dishes to Detroit-style pizza.
With unique Uptown offerings, like breakfast tacos at Emerald City Coffee and meat-free burgers at Kalish, Taste of Uptown offers a crash course in the rich culinary and cultural diversity of Uptown, one of Chicago’s most historic neighborhoods.
Whether you’re an Uptown native or just visiting, attending the 3rd Annual Taste of Uptown is a great way to explore one of Chicago’s many unique neighborhoods this fall.