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Fall Colors Trip Planner

Discover the best places to find stunning fall foliage throughout Illinois. This interactive trip planner will show you the best times to discover photo-worthy fall spots for an unforgettable fall getaway. There's something truly special about witnessing the changing leaves and Illinois is one of the best states to enjoy this vibrant natural display. For regular updates throughout the season, view our fall color report page.

Use our fall color tracker to help select the best time to see the changing colors all over Illinois this season. Simply use the slider to move through the fall months of September, October, and Novemeber. As you do, you'll see the colors change on the map below, indicating the start of fall foliage right through to the peak and end of the shifting colors.

The leaf indicators include fun fall trip ideas that will help you make the most of this spectacular fall color display.

The official Illinois Fall Colors Trip Planner, powered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

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Hover over or touch the leaf icons to view more details.

Northern Illinois Central Illinois Southern Illinois

Northern Illinois: Galena Area

Estimated peak times: Second week of October

Galena, an idyllic river town surrounded by tree-lined hilltops, is a beloved destination for fall foliage seekers. Enjoy spectacular views on a zipline journey with Long Hollow Canopy Tours, pay a visit to Horseshoe Mound Preserve and take in the incredible river scenery just 30 minutes south of town at Mississippi Palisades State Park.

 

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Northern Illinois: Starved Rock Area

Estimated peak times: Second week of October

Visit Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby to see waterfalls and colorful, tree-covered bluffs along its 15 miles of hiking trails. Immerse yourself in the seasonal splendor with a stay at The Cabins at Starved Rock Lodge, and don't forget to check out the awe-inspiring canyon and rock formations of nearby Matthiessen State Park.

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Northern Illinois: Chicago Area

Estimated peak times: Second week of October

Chicago's skyline makes for a dazzling display of its own, but look around and you'll see plenty of fall foliage popping up in places like Millennium Park, Lincoln Park and Jackson Park. Outside the city, you can't go wrong exploring the stunning scenery of Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe and Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford.

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Central Illinois

Estimated peak times: Late October

Find yourself in the middle of picturesque farms and orchards, such as Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery and The Great Pumpkin Patch. Explore the town of Monticello, home to the 1,517-acre Allerton Park, and see the natural splendor around beautiful Lake Decatur, including the Rock Springs Nature Center.

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Southwest Illinois

Estimated peak times: Last week of October

The drive from Alton to Grafton along the Great River Road during peak fall color season is breathtaking. Stop at Pere Marquette State Park at the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers and, if you're brave, try Grafton Zipline Adventures for a stunning view from hundreds (or thousands!) of feet in the air.

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Southern Illinois

Estimated peak times: Last week of October

See the leaves turn to fire amid the canopies of Shawnee National Forest — with a great overhead view from Garden of the Gods. You'll find more outdoor trails at Giant City State Park, and it's the perfect time to hike near Carbondale or explore the Shawnee Wine Trail.

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Check out the links below for more inspiration and helpful guides on making the most of fall in Illinois! There's fun fall activities, detailed fall foliage color reports (check back for regular updates), and seasonal road trips to help guide your autumnal exploration of the state. From delicious fall foods, to family fun (pumpkin patch anyone?), and romantic getaways with golden hues, we've got helpful info and guides to help you plan your fall festivities in Illinois. Get out and start exploring!

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