The Central Illinois Fall Activity Guide

Updated October 1, 2023 |

As the summer heat fades away, Central Illinois transforms into a colorful wonderland of fall activities. Since Koester & Bradley has been serving its Central Illinois personal injury clients since 1895, we have some local knowledge about enjoyable activities throughout the communities we serve.

From exploring vibrant pumpkin patches to getting lost in haunted corn mazes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this stunning season. Discovering the best fall activities in Central Illinois will bring joy to your heart and create unforgettable memories. Step into the world of autumn magic as you wander through sprawling pumpkin patches, where you can handpick your own pumpkin to carve or decorate your home with.

The sight of endless rows of bright orange pumpkins will instantly put you in the fall spirit. And don’t forget to capture the perfect Instagram-worthy photo amid the sea of pumpkins. If you’re feeling brave, venture into the chilling depths of haunted corn mazes that are sure to send shivers down your spine. With winding paths and unexpected scares, these mazes are perfect for thrill-seekers and fans of the paranormal. Embrace the beauty and excitement of the season by immersing yourself in the best fall activities that Central Illinois has to offer. Get ready to make new memories and experience the enchantment of autumn.

Recommendations from the team at Koester & Bradley

Pumpkin patches in Central Illinois

As the summer heat fades away, Central Illinois transforms into a colorful wonderland of fall activities. From exploring vibrant pumpkin patches to getting lost in haunted corn mazes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this stunning season. Just remember to stay safe during the fall.

Step into the world of autumn magic as you wander through sprawling pumpkin patches, where you can handpick your own pumpkin to carve or decorate your home with. The sight of endless rows of bright orange pumpkins will instantly put you in the fall spirit. And don’t forget to capture the perfect Instagram-worthy photo amid the sea of pumpkins.

If you’re feeling brave, venture into the chilling depths of haunted corn mazes that are sure to send shivers down your spine. With winding paths and unexpected scares, these mazes are perfect for thrill-seekers and fans of the paranormal.

Embrace the beauty and excitement of the season by immersing yourself in the best fall activities that Central Illinois has to offer. Get ready to make new memories and experience the enchantment of autumn.

Corn Mazes in Central Illinois

Central Illinois is home to some of the most picturesque pumpkin patches in the country. Whether you’re looking for a quaint farm experience or a family-friendly outing, there are plenty of options to choose from.

One of the top pumpkin patches in the area is Curtis Orchard located just outside of Champaign. This sprawling farm offers a wide variety of pumpkins in different shapes and sizes, ensuring that you’ll find the perfect one for your fall decorations. In addition to pumpkin picking, they also have a corn maze, hayrides, and a petting zoo for the little ones. It’s a great place to spend a day immersed in the beauty of the season.

Another popular destination is Rader Family Farms, situated in Normal. This family-owned farm boasts a picturesque pumpkin patch, where you can pick your own pumpkin straight from the vine. They also offer a range of activities, including a corn maze, pig races, and a pumpkin cannon. With its charming atmosphere and friendly staff, Rader Family Farms is a must-visit for pumpkin enthusiasts.

If you’re looking for a unique pumpkin picking experience, head to The Great Pumpkin Patch in Arthur. This patch is home to over 400 varieties of pumpkins, squash, and gourds, making it a paradise for pumpkin lovers. The patch is meticulously organized, allowing visitors to easily find their favorite varieties. Don’t forget to check out their giant pumpkin pyramid and take a stroll through their stunning sunflower maze. The Great Pumpkin Patch truly captures the essence of fall.

Apple picking in Central Illinois

For those seeking a spine-tingling experience, Central Illinois offers a variety of haunted corn mazes that will test your bravery. These mazes combine the thrill of getting lost with the added element of scares and surprises.

One of the most popular haunted corn mazes in the area is Spider Hill in Chillicothe. This annual Halloween attraction boasts four terrifying haunted attractions, including a haunted corn maze. As you navigate the dark passages, be prepared for unexpected encounters with creepy creatures and bone-chilling scares. Spider Hill is not for the faint of heart, but if you’re up for a fright, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

If you’re in the Clinton IL area, make sure to visit Terror on Washington Street. This haunted attraction takes place in a historic building and includes a haunted corn maze that will leave you trembling with fear. With its elaborate sets, talented actors, and immersive storytelling, Terror on Washington Street is the perfect destination for horror enthusiasts.

For a more family-friendly haunted maze experience, check out Rader Family Farms in Normal. During the Halloween season, they transform their corn maze into a spooky adventure suitable for all ages. With ghostly apparitions, eerie sounds, and surprising twists and turns, this haunted maze is sure to provide plenty of thrills without being too overwhelming.

Fall festivals and events in Central Illinois

Apart from pumpkin patches and haunted corn mazes, apple picking is another beloved fall activity in Central Illinois. The region is known for its apple orchards, offering a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.

One of the most popular apple orchards in the area is Curtis Orchard & Pumpkin Patch in Champaign. This family-owned orchard has been a staple in the community for over 30 years. With a wide variety of apple trees to choose from, you can handpick your favorite apples and savor their crisp, sweet flavors. After filling your basket with apples, don’t forget to indulge in their famous apple cider donuts and browse through their charming country store.

If you find yourself in the Peoria area, make sure to visit Tanners Orchard. This sprawling orchard offers a wide variety of apples, including traditional favorites like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, as well as unique varieties like Ginger Gold and Jonagold. In addition to apple picking, Tanners Orchard also features a petting zoo, corn maze, and hayrides, making it a perfect destination for a day of family fun.

Scenic drives and foliage in Central Illinois

Central Illinois comes alive with vibrant fall festivals and events, offering a perfect blend of entertainment, culture, and community spirit. These festivals celebrate everything from the harvest season to local traditions and showcase the region’s rich heritage.

As with any time that you are out on the road, please make sure to remain attentive while driving your vehicle. It is is to be distracted by the vibrant fall colors of Central Illinois and end up in a car accident.

One of the most anticipated fall events in the area is the Apple and Pork Festival in Clinton. This longstanding festival attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to enjoy a variety of apple and pork-based dishes, live entertainment, and craft vendors. The festival also features historical reenactments, giving visitors a glimpse into the region’s past. It’s a true celebration of the flavors and traditions of Central Illinois.

For a taste of small-town charm, visit the Pekin Marigold Festival. This annual event celebrates the marigold flower, which has become a symbol of the community. The festival features a grand parade, live entertainment, carnival rides, and a variety of food vendors. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the warmth and hospitality of Central Illinois.

Recommendations from the team at Koester & Bradley

Ryan Bradley’s Favorite: Curtis Orchard

Curtis Orchard has been a family-owned orchard since 1977 when Paul and Joyce Curtis planted 700 apple trees on 3 acres of land.    In the summer of 1980 a hailstorm damaged 2/3 of their apple crop but those damaged apples did not deter the Curtis Family who turned these apple seconds into apple cider.  This famous apple cider continues to be sold at Curtis Orchard but is also available at Schnuck’s, Harvest Market and County Market.  You can grab yourself a glass of hot apple cider at Espresso Royale or if you’re in the mood for something a bit stronger, you can acquire Curtis Orchard Hard Cider at The Blind Pig.  Whether you’re into picking your own apples and pumpkins or love a corn maze, Curtis Orchard is sure to provide your family with a fun-filled day of activities this Autumn.

Details Updated for 2023

Open through October 31^st

Open to all ages

Address:              3902 S. Duncan Rd., Champaign, IL 61822

Phone:                  217-359-5565

Hours:                   9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Monday – Saturday)

                                11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Sunday)

Admission:          Free Admission and Parking

                                *Tickets for Certain Activities

Activities:            

• U-Pick Apples
• U-Pick Pumpkins
• Character Cut-Out Photo Opportunities
• Flying Monkey Café
• Apple Cider
• Petting Zoo
• Playground
• Corn Maze*
• Rope Maze*
• Putt-Putt Golf*
• Pony Rides*
• Giant Slide
• Pumpkin Jumping Pad*
• Obstacle Course*
• Horse-Drawn Rack Wagon Rides*
• Slingshot Gallery*

Tom Koester’s Favorite: Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch

In 1995, Julie and Mark Hardy and their family purchase their first two reindeer in an effort to help boost sales of Christmas trees on their farm.  In 1997 Julie and Mark purchased 13 more reindeer from Alaska.  Hardy’s Reindeer Farm is home to 16 reindeer, 5 acres of Christmas trees, a barn gift shop and a western style banquet hall.  The Hardy family has added many new exciting activities this Fall for all ages.  Looking for a great location for an office retreat or a family reunion?  Book a Weenie Roast which includes hot dogs, chips, soda, s’mores and campfire supplies and also includes access to the corn maze, pedal cart rides and hay rides!  Whether you visit for the reindeer tour, a paintball game, or a 10 acre corn maze, you’ll be sure to have an amazing time at Hardy’s Reindeer Farm.  It’s only a 17 mile trip from Champaign-Urbana, so plan your adventure today!

Updated Details for 2023

Open through October 31^st

Open to all ages

Address:              1356 County Rd.  2900 N, Rantoul, IL 61866

Phone:                  217-893-3407

Hours:                   10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Tuesday – Thursday)

                                10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (Friday and Saturday)

                                12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Sunday)

Admission:     

• $5 Hay Rides
• $5 Pedal Race Cars
• $5 Paintball Gallery
• $8 for Reindeer Tours
• $9 for Daylight Corn Maze; $10 for Moonlight Maze after 5:00 p.m. (Ages 4-under free)
• $18 Triple Play (Corn Maze + 2 activities ) {Reindeer Tours would be $2 extra}
• $24 Per Person – Weenie Roast (includes hot dogs & chips, s’mores, soda, corn maze,
• cart rides and hayrides included.  Requires a 15 person minimum).

Activities:         

• Reindeer Tours
•  10 Acre Fall Corn Maze (Moonlight Maze is done at night with flashlights)
• Gift Shop
• Concessions on Weekends in October
• Hay Rides
• Pedal Race Cars
• Paintball Gallery
• Weenie Roast for Groups
• Pumpkins for sale

Kelly VanLandeghem’s Favorite: The Great Pumpkin Patch

In 1859 McDonald immigrants from Scotland purchased the land over 160 years ago through the
Homestead Act. In 1977 Bruce and Mary Beth Condill planted a few pumpkin seeds in their children’s
garden which after several decades has grown into The Great Pumpkin Patch. The Great Pumpkin Patch
is now owned and operated by Mac and Ginny Condill and they have added many new features to this
business such as an Amish Bakery that provides scratch baked goods, many beautiful pumpkin displays
and arrangements throughout the grounds, as well as mazes and character cut-out photo opportunities.
Visitors can pick their own pumpkins, grab some pumpkin ice cream and view 300 varieties of pumpkins,
gourds and squash from over 20 countries around the world. Live music events also occur every
Saturday and Sunday in October. If you’re looking for family-friendly activities this October, The Great
Pumpkin Patch is your destination and it’s only 46 miles from Champaign-Urbana.

Updated Details for 2023

Open through October 29^th, 2023

Open to all ages and pet friendly

Address:              1749A E County Rd 1900 N, Arthur, IL 61911

Phone:                  217-543-2394

Hours:                   9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Wednesday – Sunday)

Admission:          Adults ($7), Adults 60+ ($5), Children age 6-12 ($5) – Weekdays

                                Adults ($11), Adults 60+ ($7), Children age 6-12 ($7) – Weekends

Activities:        

• U-Pick Pumpkins
• Character Cut-Out Photo Opportunities
• The Pumpkin Eatery open on Weekends and Columbus/Indigenous People Day
• The Homestead Bakery
• The Two-Mile Sweet Shop
• The Pumpkin Creamery
• Live Music Every Saturday and Sunday in October
• Corn Mazes

Pam Beard’s Favorite: Rader Family Farms

Rader Family Farms is a fourth generation working farm.  Lynn and Linda Rader were primarily grain farmers but one year Lynn had an unexpected bumper crop of pumpkins.  From then on, Lynn has continued to expand his crop to 30 plus acres with many pumpkin varieties.  If you’re looking to educate your children on farm life, visit their goat feeding station or the School House to learn about farm products and the importance of pollinators.  Whether you’re into corn mazes, obstacle courses, or interactive games, Rader Family Farms is jam packed with fun activities for all ages.  Rader Family Farms is only 53 miles from Champaign-Urbana so pack up the family in the car and head here for a great afternoon!

Updated Details for 2023

Open through October 29th

Open to all ages

Address:              1312 Ropp Rd., Normal, IL 61761

Phone:                  309-454-6880

Hours:                   10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Wednesday – Sunday)

                                Flashlight Night Corn Maze open until 9:00 p.m. (October 14^th, October 28^th)

Admission:     

• Free to active duty military and veterans
• Free for children aged 4 and under
• $10 for Senior Citizens
• $18.95 for ages 5 to 64; $20.95 for ages 5 to 64 (Saturday, Sunday and Columbus Day)

Activities:        

• U-Pick Pumpkins
• 10 Acre Corn Maze
• Goat Feeding
• 250 Foot Slide
• Pedal Carts
• Pumpkin Checkers
• Selfie Scavenger Hunt
• Apple Blasters (open only on weekends)
• Face Painting (open only on weekends)
• Animated Talking Corn Show
• Critter Cart
• Corny Bins
• Straw Castle
• Combine Slide
• Tractor Tire Swings
• Tram Rides
•  Jumping Pillow
•  Chalk Talk
•  Giant Bubbles
•  Double Barrel Chute
•  Low Ropes Course
•  Rat Rollers
•  Tire Tower
•  Sandbox

More Fall Festivals and Activities to enjoy during the fall in Central Illinois

Farmer City Haunted Forest

October 13^th, October 14^th, October 20^th, October 21st

Open to all ages

Address:              12853 Royal Road, Farmer City, IL  61842

Hours:                   6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. – must be in line by 8:00 p.m. (October 13^th, October 20^th)

                                3:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. – must be in line by 8:00 p.m. (October 14^th, October 21^st)

Activities:             Haunted Hay Ride through the Salt Creek Campsites

                                Food Vendors

                                Saturday Matinees have games, face painting, glow in the dark tattoos, barrel

                                train rides and costume contests with prizes.

Only 25 miles from Champaign-Urbana.

Macon County Fair Harvest Festival

October 13^th through October 15^th

Open to all ages

Address:              Macon County Fairgrounds, 3700  N. Westlawn Ave., Decatur, IL 62526

                                Only 49 miles from Champaign-Urbana

Hours:                   6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (October 13^th)

                                1:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (October 14^th)

                                1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (October 15^th)

Activities:             Carnival Rides

                                Haunted Hay Ride

                                Shopping

                                Food Vendors

Admission:          $10 Gate Entry for Adults and Children 13 and up

                                $5 Gate Entry for Children ages 3 to 12

                                Free for Children ages 2 and under

                                (Gate entry admission includes free parking, Haunted Hay Ride and access to shopping

                                and food vendors)

                                $22 Wristbands for Carnival Rides (October 13^th)

                                $22 Wristbands for Carnival Rides (October 14^th)

                                $22 Wristbands for Carnival Rides (October 15^th)

                                $1.25 per ticket for Carnival rides (most rides require 2-5 tickets)

Illinois Fall Events that are Worth the Drive

The Morton Arboretum

Address:              4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL 60532     

13^th Annual Glass Pumpkin Patch/Blown Glass Demonstrations

October 13^th through October 15^th

Open to All Ages

Hours:                   10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Glass Blowing Demonstrations)

                                1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Sale of Glass Pumpkins)

Admission:          Free for Members

                                Free for Children 2 and under

                                $12 for Children 3 and over

                                $15 for Senior Citizens

                                $17 for Adults age 18 to 64

Activities:             Glass Blowing Demonstrations

                                Glass Pumpkin Sales

Cider and Ale Festival

October 21^st

Ages 21+

Hours:                   12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Admission:          $60 General Admission for Members

                                $70 General Admission for Guests

Activities:             30 Local Breweries and Cideries

20 3oz. samples and Souvenir Tasting Glass with General Admission

Jacksonville, IL is approximately 121 miles from Champaign-Urbana, IL.

Jacksonville Pumpkin Festival

October 21^st

Open to all ages

Address:              Main Street, Jacksonville, IL 62651

Hours:                   10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Admission:          $10 to participate in all activities

Activities:             Pumpkin Decorating

                                Pumpkin Drop

                                Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest

                                Pumpkin Games

                                Kid Costume Contest

                                Pet Costume Contest

                                Petting Zoo

                                Kid Crafts

                                Buffalo Wild Wings Blazing Wings Challenge

                                Vendors

Indianapolis, IN is approximately 126 miles from Champaign-Urbana, IL.

Historic Irvington Halloween Festival

October 21^st through October 28^th

Open to all ages for most events

Address:              Indianapolis, Indiana

Activities:             Masquerade Ball  for Ages +21 @ Irvington Lodge on October 21^st (Cost = $60 – $100)

                                Spooky Organ Concert for all ages @ Our Lady of Lourdes on October 22^nd

                                Family Movie Night for all ages on October 23^rd

                                Slightly Haunted Puppet Show for all ages @ Irving Theater on October 23^rd

                                Night of Spirits Séance Readings on October 24^th (ticket sales in advance)

                                Night Out in Spooky Hollow Stories on October 26^th

                                Street Fair (Battle of the Bands, costumes, parade, Vampire Run) on October 28^th

                                Festival After Party (Theme – “Alien Circus Encounter”) – Costume Contest, Vendors,

                                Psychics, etc. @ Irvington Event Center on October 28^th

Centralia, IL is approximately 139 miles from Champaign-Urbana, IL.

Centralia 96^th Annual Halloween Parade and Fall Festival

October 28^th

Open to all ages

Address:              Downtown Centralia, IL

Hours:                   9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Activities:             Themed Parade

                                Pet Dressed Pet

                                Chili Cook-Off

                                Children’s Costume Contest

                                Car Show

                                Flea Market

                                Craft Fair

Do you think we left a fun fall activity off our list? Feel Free to contact out team! We love to add new events each year. Don’t forget to check back for our Winter, Spring, and Summer guides as well.

As always, if you are need of any legal assistance–answers are just a moment away at Koester & Bradley.