The Morton Arboretum

The Morton Arboretum in Lisle is one of the Chicago area’s go-to places to watch the leaves turn. Its woodlands and tree collections spread across both sides of Route 53, with 33 free parking lots along the roads that wind through the grounds. In fall, staff publish a weekly Fall Color Report showing which areas have turned, and the Fall Color Festival adds cider donuts, a Cider and Ale Festival, a Glass Pumpkin Patch and walking plays. The Children’s Garden and Maze Garden are popular with families.

What to know

• Parking is free, and admission is bought online by date and time.
• Buying general admission online saves $2 per ticket.
• The Fall Color Report is typically published on Wednesdays.
• The Metra BNSF station in Lisle is about two miles away.
• Members enter free.