A Colorful Canvas: Discover the Best Fall Foliage in the Midwest
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures begin to drop, the Midwest transforms into a stunning display of vibrant autumn colors. Hit the road and get front row seats to the most colorful show in the Midwest this season. From Chicagoland to Missouri we’ve got the best spots for leaf peeping.
Downtown Chicago
Photo: @choosechicago
Lincoln Park
Just a couple miles from downtown Chicago, this urban oasis transforms into a picturesque landscape during the fall. Take a walk along the park’s meandering paths and admire the colorful trees lining the lagoons. The South Pond area offers beautiful reflections of fall foliage in the water.
Northerly Island
Located on Lake Michigan, Northerly Island offers a scenic escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. During the fall months, this man-made peninsula transforms into a tranquil haven for nature lovers. The walking paths and prairie grasses take on a warm, golden hue that contrasts beautifully with the lakes deep blue waters.
Lakefront Trail
Chicago’s Lakefront Trail is a great way to see the best of Chicago’s foliage. Walk or bike the 18 mile long stretch along Lake Michigan and not only see the changing leaves but explore new neighborhoods.
Where to Stay: Loews Chicago Hotel
Chicagoland
Photo: @mortonarb
Des Plaines River Trail
Located NW from downtown Chicago, the Des Plains River Trail offers a picturesque setting for enjoying fall foliage. This scenic trail runs along the Des Plains River and meanders through lush woodlands, providing an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and admire the changing leaves.
Busse Woods
Located in Elk Grove Village, this expansive forest preserve is home to a beautiful lake, wooded areas and numerous walking an biking trails. During the fall, the forest canopy comes alive with vibrant autumn colors.
Morton Arboretum
Although a bit father from, it’s worth the drive for it’s extensive collection of trees and gardens. The arboretum is renowned for its fall foliage displays and it offers a variety of walking and hiking trails where you can immerse yourself in the colors of autumn.
Where to Stay: Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel
Kansas City
Photo Credit: @visitkc
Loose Park
Located just south of the Country Club Plaza, Loose Park is a local favorite year-round, but it really shines in the fall. With winding paths, massive trees, and a quiet lake reflecting the fall colors, it's the perfect spot for a mid-morning stroll or an afternoon picnic.
Cliff Drive Scenic Byway
One of KC’s best-kept secrets, Cliff Drive offers a uniquely rugged and wooded escape right within the city. Part of the historic Northeast area, this 4.27-mile scenic byway is closed to vehicles on weekends, turning it into a peaceful path for walking, biking, or leaf-peeping.
Swope Park Trails
As one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., Swope Park has plenty of tree-covered trails perfect for a fall hike. Try the Fox Hollow Trail or Lakeside Nature Center trails to immerse yourself in a rich, wooded landscape alive with fall color.
Where to Stay: Loews Kansas City Hotel
St. Louis
Photo Credit: @explorestlouis
Missouri Botanical Garden
In the fall, these gardens transform into a kaleidoscope of color and calm. Strolling its 79 acres feels like walking through a living painting where you'll see Japanese maples blaze in crimson, oaks and ginkgos turn to gold and the crips air carrying the scent of autumn blooms.
Forest Park
A breathtaking mosaic of color right in the heart of St. Louis, this sprawling 1,300 acre park transforms as its tree-lined trails, rolling meadows and tranquil lakes glow with shades of amber, crimson and gold.
Where to Stay: Live! by Loews - St. Louis
