Keller's Farmstand Pumpkins
Keller's Farmstand - Oswego

As autumn arrives in the Aurora Area, the region bursts into life with a festive spirit and an abundance of things to do for all ages. From lively seasonal celebrations to hands-on farm experiences, engaging family attractions to fascinating museums, every weekend offers new opportunities to celebrate, discover, and connect.

Explore the best of the Chicagoland's Fox River Valley with a calendar packed with unique events, charming farm visits, and family-friendly activities, all surrounded by the historic character and welcoming communities that make the Aurora Area a vibrant Midwest destination. Whether you’re a foodie, a festival-goer, a history buff, or seeking outdoor adventure, you’ll find your perfect fall adventure waiting just around the corner.

Fantastic Farms

In a region well suited for agriculture, it’s no wonder farmers flocked to the Aurora Area. As time passed, farmland gave way to growing towns and cities. Today, in the spirit of those farmers who built our communities, visitors can enjoy numerous farms providing serene environments and fresh-picked food. Often referred to as "agritourism," the Aurora Area is home to a multitude of places where you can not only pick your own produce but enjoy activities and a wide variety of seasonal events. A trip to the Aurora Area wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of these wonderful working farms.

Blackberry Farm - Pumpkin Weekends
Blackberry Farm - Pumpkin Weekends

Abbey Farms, Aurora, this unique family fun destination can trace its beginnings back to the 1930s when the monks of Marmion Abbey settled here and began growing trees. Opening to the public for the first time in 1949, Abbey Farms has been growing memories ever since.

Blackberry Farm, Aurora, witness pioneer life re-created through educational demonstrations and hands-on fun. A visit to this living history museum includes unlimited rides on their train, hay wagon, pedal tractors, paddle boats, carousel, and ponies.

Keller’s Farmstand, Oswego, for five generations, the Keller family has been farming and making fruits — and vegetables and flowers available to visitors. Stop by for their high-quality flowers, sweet corn, vegetables, apples, and pumpkins.

Sugar Grove Pumpkin Farm, Sugar Grove, this family-owned farm specializes in pumpkins and other fall décor, available for both retail and wholesale. The farm also features numerous activities for youngsters, including a corn maze, straw mound and tunnel, and playhouses.

Windy Acres, Geneva, shop an incredible selection of locally grown produce — including sweet corn, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and peaches — along with delicious raw honey, Amish jams and salsas, free-range eggs, cheeses, and baked goods.

Woody’s Orchard, Plano, this farm is the perfect place to spend a fun-filled day with family and friends. Pick your own produce, hop aboard their train for a scenic ride, or enjoy a multitude of family-friendly activities. And treat yourself to their delicious apple cider donuts and pure apple cider.

Woody's Orchard
Woody's Orchard - Plano

FAMILY FUN ATTRACTIONS

The Aurora area is bursting with exciting options for indoor family fun, ensuring there’s always something to enjoy regardless of the weather. Mega Fun Park in Aurora offers over 16 attractions in 35,000 square feet, including arcades, interactive games, and soft play zones, all set in a safe, vibrant space that’s ideal for parties or spontaneous outings. Little Fox Clubhouse in Yorkville is thoughtfully designed for the youngest adventurers, with a secure indoor play space for imaginative free play and socializing, tailored for children from pre-walkers up to age six. At Fox Valley Mall, families can dive into the teamwork-focused challenges at MISH MASH Adventures, where hands-on games test skill and brains in a colorful arena. Just steps away, Round1 Bowling & Arcade combines bowling, a vast arcade, karaoke, billiards, and tasty food in a lively, all-ages venue.

Round1 Bowling
Round1 Bowling at Fox Valley Mall

Aurora’s Sky Zone brings soaring thrills with freestyle jump areas, foam pits, and expansive warrior courses, while Slick City Action Park in North Aurora offers the only indoor slide park in the region with heart-pounding slides and new sports courts. For classic gaming fun, Yetee Station Arcade is a throwback favorite, featuring a blend of vintage and modern arcade games, pinball, and redemption prizes.

Sports enthusiasts can catch the fast-paced action of Chicago Steel hockey at Fox Valley Ice Arena in Geneva, which also provides public skating. Parkside Lanes in Aurora rounds out the list with a bowling alley complete with leagues, arcade space, and snacks, perfect for gatherings or casual afternoons.

Chicago Steel celebrate a goal at a home game in Geneva, Illinois Chicago Steel
Astro Fun World
Astro Fun World - Aurora

At Altitude Trampoline Park in Oswego, families will find a high-energy environment filled with wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts, basketball dunk lanes, foam pits, and kid-friendly zones.

In Aurora, Astro Fun World stands out with 60,000 square feet of glow-in-the-dark adventure, featuring everything from rope courses and ziplines to mini golf, go-karts, bumper cars, arcade games, virtual reality, laser tag, and rock climbing, making it the ultimate spot for all-ages excitement under one roof.

Funway in Batavia earns its title as Illinois’ largest family entertainment center with bowling, roller skating, and laser tag options for indoor fun.

SPOOKY SPOTS

As autumn’s chill settles in, the Aurora area offers plenty of exciting ways to embrace the spooky season and enjoy indoor fun. Whether you’re craving bone-chilling scares or mind-bending puzzle adventures, these top attractions promise memorable fall experiences.

Mind Trap Escape Rooms
Mind Trap Escape Rooms - Montgomery

A fright lover’s dream, Massacre Haunted House in Montgomery stands out as one of Illinois’ most intense haunted attractions. With over 35,000 square feet of terror and more than 40 themed rooms, this destination offers three uniquely terrifying experiences under one roof. From creepy clown-filled 3D walkthroughs to the infamous "Underground" basement level, every twist brings new horrors to life. Each season brings fresh renovations and innovative scares, ensuring repeat visitors are always surprised. Conveniently located near Aurora, Massacre Haunted House is a can’t-miss highlight for anyone seeking heart-pounding nightmares with friends or family.

Downtown Aurora’s Basement of the Dead continues to earn accolades as one of the scariest haunted houses in the Midwest. Set in the eerie ruins of an old industrial basement, this haunt features pulse-racing corridors filled with movie-quality sets, live actors, and unexpected frights at every corner. Guests can also venture into the mind-bending Shattered 3D attraction, where vivid visuals and disorienting effects create a surreal, haunted journey. The atmosphere—complete with a DJ and costumed monsters—makes this a lively choice for group outings, Halloween date nights, or anyone who loves the thrill of a good scare.

For those seeking interactive fall fun that’s high on excitement but not heavy on horror, Mind Trap Escape Rooms provides a unique adventure in nearby Montgomery. Groups can book private rooms featuring themes that range from crime and adventure to horror and fantasy. You have 60 minutes to solve puzzles, uncover clues, and complete your mission before time runs out—making Mind Trap an ideal activity for families, friends, or company team-builders. Their friendly staff and variety of room options ensure every visit is engaging, challenging, and a great way to enjoy autumn indoors—rain or shine.

Seeking the vintage and unique

Antique malls, vintage collectives, boutiques, and thrift shops come alive with seasonal charm. This is the perfect time to browse Warehouse 55’s inviting array of mid-century furnishings and farmhouse accents—ideal for creating a warm, cozy home. Out of the Attic Antiques beckons with nostalgia-infused collectibles and unique treasures to decorate for fall gatherings. Explore Happenstance Goods in Oswego to uncover quirky vintage pieces, welcoming furniture, and artisanal finds that capture the spirit of the season. Geneva Antique Market offers over 25-year-old relics in the picturesque, leaf-strewn Berry House, while Vintage 71 Shops in Yorkville provides artful décor and handmade gifts ready to make your home autumn-ready.

Undisputed Vintage - Downtown Aurora Joseph Weber
Undisputed Vintage - Downtown Aurora

The local boutique scene adds even more to your fall adventures. Wander through The Little Traveler’s labyrinth of themed rooms—filled with autumnal décor, gourmet treats, and gift items—set within a historic Victorian mansion. The Rustic Fox in North Aurora bursts with fall displays from a dozen local businesses, offering everything from pumpkin-scented candles to seasonal home accents and accessories. Edie Boutique delivers on-trend autumn fashion, while Undisputed Vintage supplies classic jackets and retro pieces perfect for crisp days. Wyckwood House specializes in locally made fall gifts and rustic décor, and Wilson Street Mercantile features antique selections that blend seamlessly with autumn’s retro aesthetic. Stroll the Batavia Boardwalk Shops’ pop-up boutiques as the leaves swirl, or hunt for budget-friendly fall finds at Thrift and Dollar in Aurora.

More Polish Pottery Pumpkins
More Polish Pottery - Big Rock

Enhance your shopping adventure with a visit to More Polish Pottery in Big Rock — a destination renowned for its vast selection of vibrant, handcrafted Polish pottery imported directly from Bolesławiec, Poland. Here, you’ll discover everything from intricately patterned plates and mugs to serve ware, all perfect for adding a touch of charm to your fall table and home. The shop features new arrivals and signature collections year-round, making it a must for collectors and those seeking unique gifts. 

All together, these destinations transform shopping into a leaf-crunching, pumpkin-spiced celebration of community and creativity, making autumn the ideal season to discover the Aurora area’s unique retail experiences.

Warehouse 55

Warehouse 55

Geneva Antique Market

Geneva Antique Market

The Rustic Fox

The Rustic Fox

Vintage 71 Shops Yorkville

Vintage 71 Shops Yorkville

Learn the history within the area

Embrace the crisp air and vibrant colors of autumn by exploring the remarkable museums throughout the Aurora area. Fall is the perfect time to discover history, art, innovation, and family fun—indoors and out!

Step into Oswego's history at Little White School Museum - EnjoyAurora.com - Aurora Area of Illinois
Little White School Museum - Oswego

Walk through The Grand Army of the Republic Hall honoring Civil War veterans or visit the Little White School Museum’s extensive archives in Oswego. More historic gems await at the Hinckley Historical Society Museum with its quirky Hollywood tales and sports history.

Discover the Geneva History Museum, one of Kane County’s finest, showcasing Geneva’s evolving story in its 3,000-square-foot Main Gallery and diverse exhibitions that celebrate the city’s remarkable past. Step back in time at treasures like Friends of the Viking Ship where you can see a replica Gokstad ship.

Delight in hands-on adventures at outdoor destinations like Fabyan Windmill’s living-history farm, where pioneer-era buildings and seasonal events bring history to life, and Lyon Farm & Village in Yorkville, which hosts fall festivals packed with fun activities for every generation.

Immerse yourself in aviation history at the Air Classics Museum in Sugar Grove, where vintage planes and interactive exhibits fuel curiosity for all ages. Families can revisit the heroics of Aurora’s firefighters at the Aurora Regional Fire Museum or uncover Batavia’s storied past—including a special Mary Todd Lincoln exhibit—at the charming Batavia Depot Museum. For animal lovers, Phillips Park Zoo offers a free, year-round wildlife experience, while the scenic Peck Farm Park combines nature trails, a butterfly house, and the historic Peck House Museum.

Art lovers and history buffs should not miss the David L. Pierce Art & History Center’s rotating gallery exhibits celebrating Aurora’s heritage, or the Schingoethe Center at Aurora University, renowned for its preservation of Indigenous cultures. Marvel at world-class architecture at the tranquil Edith Farnsworth House in Plano.

Nestled along the banks of the Fox River, Red Oak Nature Center offers a truly immersive autumn experience. The center’s scenic trails wind through vibrant woodlands, alive with the changing colors of oaks, maples, and hickories—perfect for family walks, bird watching, and spotting deer and other native wildlife. In autumn, special seasonal programs and guided hikes highlight changing ecosystems and animal activity as the forest prepares for winter. Indoors, interactive exhibits take visitors of all ages into the region’s glacial history, river life, and native fauna, while the observation beehive and rescued animal ambassadors provide hands-on learning. The nature center’s Treehouse Room, with panoramic forest views, invites kids for discovery-based play and creative exploration. 

Red Oak Nature Center, North Aurora, Illinois
Red Oak Nature Center - North Aurora

Museum Events

OKTOBERFESTS

Raise a stein to the Aurora Area with a fantastic lineup of Oktoberfest celebrations! Kick off the season at Auroraland Oktoberfest at Phillips Park Pavilion in Aurora, where families and friends gather to enjoy classic German cuisine, festive drinks, lively oompah music, and a spirited celebration inspired by Bavarian traditions. Just down the road, Yorktoberfest in Yorkville transforms Riverfront Park East with live music, an impressive selection of domestic and craft beers, delicious food, and crowd-pleasing contests like stein holding. This popular nonprofit festival features plenty of family-friendly activities including a Scarecrow Walk and pumpkin painting—so there’s fun for all ages, all while supporting local children and families. In North Aurora, experience the welcoming small-town vibe of the inaugural North Aurora Oktoberfest, featuring German and local beers, traditional fare, polka music, and games that promise an authentic Oktoberfest experience right in your own backyard.

Prost! Oktoberfest at Two Brothers Roundhouse - Aurora, Illinois

Round out the festivities at the historic Two Brothers Roundhouse in downtown Aurora for their annual Oktoberfest event, famous for craft beers like the award-winning Atom Smasher Oktoberfest lager, classic German eats, and all-day live music. Dress in your best lederhosen or dirndl and join in on contests, stein-holding competitions, and merriment for beer lovers and families alike. No matter which celebration you choose, Oktoberfest in the Aurora Area is packed with festive spirits, flavorful food, great music, and autumn fun for everyone!

Gather together

Geneva’s Festival of the Vine launches autumn festivities from September 5th through 7th in historic downtown Geneva. This beloved festival celebrates the harvest with signature dishes from Geneva’s top restaurants, paired with wines from around the world, plus an arts and crafts show, horse-drawn carriage rides, live music, and a vibrant downtown atmosphere.

The month of September kicks off with the highly anticipated City of Lights Film Fest in Aurora, running from September 18th to 20th. This event draws filmmakers and film lovers alike for three days of screenings, panels, and lively discussions that add a creative spark to downtown Aurora.

September 20th is a banner date for festivalgoers, with multiple celebrations taking place. Dive into Bavarian fun at Auroraland Oktoberfest or Two Brothers Roundhouse Oktoberfest—both in Aurora—where you’ll find live music, authentic German fare, and plenty of seasonal brews.

Families won’t want to miss the kickoff of Pumpkin Daze at Abbey Farms in Aurora, from September 20th through October 26th. This beloved farm offers pumpkin picking, a corn maze, delicious treats, and fall fun for all ages. The Fall Food Truck Festival rolls into Aurora on September 26th, inviting you to savor mouthwatering creations from the top food trucks in the area.

As October arrives, the celebration continues. Every weekend at Blackberry Farm hosts Pumpkin Weekends with hayrides, crafts, and classic autumn activities. On October 5th, the Aurora Pooch Parade is back at Phillips Park—a delightful event where dogs (and their humans) don creative costumes and strut their stuff. That same day, Oswego’s Fall Fox Fest draws visitors for crafts, local vendors, and family-friendly activities along the river.

Aurora Pooch Parade City of Aurora
Aurora Pooch Parade
LUMENAURA Fest Weekend: An Experience To Remember!

Mid-October brings the enchanting LUMENAURA light festival to Aurora, from October 10th through 26th, transforming the city with glowing art installations and immersive experiences. On October 25th, head to downtown Batavia for BatFest, a family-friendly Halloween party packed with pumpkin contests, trick-or-treating, and spooky fun. Finally, as fall turns to November, gather friends for a memorable evening at the Friendsgiving Farm Dinner on November 6th at Heritage Prairie Farm in Elburn, where local flavors and community spirit shine around the harvest table.

With such a vibrant array of events, the Aurora area is the perfect destination to experience the best of autumn—there’s something festive and memorable for everyone along the Fox River this season.

As autumn’s colors sweep across the Chicagoland Fox River Valley, there’s no better place to embrace the season than the Aurora Area. With every unique attraction, festive event, and scenic destination, you’ll find moments big and small to create lasting memories.

Gather your loved ones, plan your weekend adventures, and soak in the crisp air and vibrant sights that make fall here truly special. No matter how you choose to celebrate, the Aurora Area welcomes you with open arms—offering the perfect blend of Midwest charm, community spirit, and autumn excitement. We can’t wait to see you discover your next favorite fall tradition!

Red Oak Nature Trail Stairs
Red Oak Nature Center Trail

Plan your visit with shopping, dining, and affordable brand-name lodging options.