Best Apple Orchards & Fall Festivals Near Chicago’s Western Suburbs

As the air turns crisp and the leaves start to show their colors, fall in the western suburbs of Chicago brings out some of the best seasonal traditions. From apple orchards overflowing with fresh fruit to lively fall festivals filled with hayrides, corn mazes, and cider donuts, there’s no shortage of places to soak in the season. Here’s your guide to some of the best orchards and festivals to visit this autumn.

Royal Oak Farm Orchard – Harvard, IL

Royal Oak is famous for its “Amaze ’N Apples,” a one-of-a-kind apple tree maze. Families can enjoy apple picking, bakery treats, a restaurant, rides, and plenty of kid-friendly activities. It’s a perfect mix of fresh air, good food, and fun.

All Seasons Orchard – Woodstock, IL

For over 30 years, All Seasons has been a family favorite. You’ll find apple and pumpkin picking, a corn maze, a petting zoo, pony rides, an apple cannon, and even magic shows. Plan to spend the whole day—there’s something for everyone here.

Stade’s Farm & Market – McHenry, IL

Stade’s offers more than just apple picking. With attractions like zip lines, giant slides, a Ferris wheel, and plenty of festival food, it feels part orchard and part amusement park. Admission includes access to most activities, making it a great full-day outing.

Goebbert’s Fall Festival – South Barrington, IL

This festival is a beloved fall tradition. Visitors can explore a corn maze, take hayrides, pick pumpkins, and enjoy fall treats. It’s especially family-friendly and has become a go-to for celebrating the season close to home.

Jonamac Orchard – Malta, IL

Jonamac is a beautiful spot offering apple and pumpkin picking, flower fields, and a bakery that fills the air with the scent of fresh donuts. It’s a great balance of family fun and scenic countryside charm.

Woody’s Orchard – Plano, IL

Woody’s is a little closer to the western suburbs and makes a great half-day trip. Kids will love the giant jumping pillow, slides, grain train, and of course, the fresh apple cider donuts.

Sonny Acres Farm – West Chicago, IL

A true local favorite, Sonny Acres offers free admission and parking. Visitors can enjoy hayrides, train rides, farm animals, and classic fall treats. For thrill-seekers, there are haunted hayrides and spooky barns in the evening, making it a spot for both family fun and Halloween chills.

Kuipers Family Farm – Maple Park, IL

Just a short drive from the western suburbs, Kuipers is a fall favorite with something for everyone. From u-pick apples and pumpkins to a sprawling sunflower field, corn maze, and hayrides, it’s a picture-perfect spot for autumn traditions. Their bakery is also a must for fresh cider donuts, caramel apples, and pies.

Tips for Visiting

• Go early: Popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends.

• Check schedules: Orchards and festivals often have different opening dates and times, so plan ahead.

• Dress for the weather: Crisp fall days are perfect, but mornings and evenings can be chilly.

• Bring your appetite: Apple cider donuts, taffy apples, and warm cider are part of the experience!

The Takeaway

From charming orchards with fresh-picked apples to full-scale fall festivals with rides, corn mazes, and seasonal treats, the western suburbs and surrounding countryside have endless ways to celebrate the season. Grab your sweater, pack up the family, and get ready to make some unforgettable autumn memories.