Falling for Chicago: A Guide to Autumn in the City

There's a particular kind of magic that settles over Chicago once September turns the corner - the lake breeze sharpens, the leaves along the Riverwalk start to turn, and the whole city seems to lean into cozy.

Fall in Chicago is a study in contrasts. One weekend you're still catching a rooftop sunset in a light jacket, the next you're wrapped in a scarf watching steam rise off a cup of cider. The West Loop and Fulton Market neighborhoods come alive this time of year - restaurant patios hold on for a few more golden evenings before closing up for winter, the neighborhood trades block parties for beer gardens, and the whole city smells faintly of cinnamon and woodsmoke.

It's also prime time for getting outside before the deep freeze sets in. The parks put on their best show, the farmers markets stretch into their final weeks, and there's an unmistakable energy in the air - equal parts nostalgia and anticipation for what winter will bring.

From pumpkin patches to beer gardens, here's how we're spending the season around the neighborhood.

Open September 19 through November 1 on Goose Island, Jack's Pumpkin Pop-Up brings over 10,000 pumpkins, downtown's biggest corn maze, axe throwing, and famously good apple cider donuts. Go at night for the lights.

Right in our own backyard, Fulton Market's Oktoberfest runs September 17 through October 26 with Hefeweizens, spiced cider mules, live oompah bands, and stein-holding contests just steps from The Emily.

Every Saturday through November 21, Green City Market fills Mary Bartelme Park with local farmers selling the season's final heirloom apples, squash, and fresh-pressed cider - a short walk from the hotel.

The Chicago Riverwalk catches the foliage reflecting off the water as it winds through downtown - one of the most underrated fall walks in the city, especially at golden hour.

A short car ride or bike ride north brings you to Lincoln Park, home to some of the city's best tree-lined paths and lagoon views, especially in mid-to-late October.

Autumn doesn't last long here, so we like to savor every bit of it - the crisp air, the last outdoor dinners, the first signs of the holidays creeping in. We're proud to call Fulton Market home this time of year - book a room today and fall in love with Chicago's favorite season.