9 places to visit this COVID-19 fall
As soon as COVID-19 hit, panic was released. Not the panic of fear, but the panic amongst the younger generations trying to “live their life.” Why? Because they realized that they have nothing to do with their lives besides going to clubs, parties, or bars.
Everyone remember those Floridan spring breakers back in March? As the news quoted a spring breaker, “If I get Corona, I get Corona. At the end of the day, I’m not going to let it stop me.”
For those people who just can’t stay at home, this list of outdoor activities will come in clutch:
- Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve — 4.6 rating
Photo from Forest Preserve District of DuPage County
This forest preserve is a hidden gem. If you need to take time for yourself and listen to the white noise of water dripping down the rocks, and trees moving slowly against the air, then this one's for you. Glen Forest is located in DuPage County and it’s only 26 minutes away from Elmhurst.
Address: Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve, Lemont, IL 60439
- The Morton Arboretum — 4.8 rating
Photo from The Morton Arboretum’s website
The Morton Arboretum is a museum of nature and its trees, and is located 21 minutes away from EU. If you want to get to know the earth better, this one's for you. Its 1,700 acres allow for you to easily social distance, along with its required timed-entry tickets. There is a catch — you might find some big trolls.
Stay tuned for the “Illumination” event, a tree light show beginning on Nov. 20.
Address: 4100 IL-53, Lisle, IL 60532
- Starved Rock State Park — 4.7 rating
Photo by Michelle Cabanas
Starved Rock is an oldie but a goodie. It does require some exercising, but it is worth it because you can admire its waterfalls coming down from the canyons. Attending in the fall also allows for a view of different colored leaves that gives you that autumn feeling.
It is an hour-and-a-half from EU, but the closer you get to the park, traffic reduces, and peace creeps in the more you drive.
Address: 2678 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348
- Anderson Japanese Gardens — 4.7 rating
Photo from Anderson Japanese Gardens
“Chicago’s Botanical Garden,” is well-known by towns nearby, but “Anderson Japanese Gardens,” is one that is often overlooked. It is known for one of the highest quality Japanese gardens. Its calming, breath-taking waterfalls, koi-filled ponds, colorful blossoms, and much more, makes you forget that you are in Illinois.
Currently, you must make reservations, as they do not want it to get too cramped up. It is an hour and twenty minutes away from Elmhurst but also worth it for the beauty that it holds.
Address: 318 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford, IL 61107
- JoJo’s Pumpkin Patch Pop-up — 4.1 rating
Photo from JoJo’s Shake Bar’s Instagram
JoJo’s Shake Bar is a restaurant in Chicago that is known for its massive shakes. Recently, due to the pandemic, they came up with a pop-up shake pumpkin patch that is safer since it is outside.
For the Instagrammer that wants to snap some shots, or for those who simply want to enjoy a shake outside, this place is perfect for that. It tends to get busy on weekends so it's best to go on weekdays to be safe.
This pop-up is only 25 minutes away from EU.
Address: 23 W Hubbard St, Chicago, Illinois
- Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-up — 4.4 rating
Photo by Michelle Cabanas
Located 23 minutes away from EU, Jack’s is another “pumpkin patch” that includes food and outdoor activities, but solely for those who want to bring their best outfit and take pictures. Its gorgeous designs and twinkling lights make it best to go when it’s darker.
To be safer, go on a weekday as well since it is a very popular place. Hurry, there are only two weeks left as it closes on Nov. 1, and tickets are available online.
Address: 1467 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
- Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch and Apple Orchard — 4.5 rating
Photo by Michelle Cabanas
Goebbert’s is a very well-known site to go to every fall. There are two locations to visit in Barrington and Pingree Grove.
The Pingree Grove Goebbert’s has more free space and they allow you to go to the field to pick your own pumpkin. Here is a secret: Pingree Grove is typically less busy than the Barrington location, especially on a weekday, and you can snag VIP parking.
This location is 40 minutes away from EU and if you have a big gap between classes, go and live your best socially distanced fall fantasy.
Address: 42W813 Reinking Rd, Pingree Grove, IL 60140
- Richardson’s Adventure Farm — 4.5 rating
Photo from Richardson’s Instagram
Richardson’s is not a typical pumpkin patch because it also happens to be the world’s largest corn maze. Their corn maze goes on for about 9 to 10 miles, so be careful not to get lost.
It is also very safe; their large field makes it easy to social distance and enjoy fall activities. It is an hour away, but its authentic vibes make the drive worth it.
Address: 909 English Prairie Rd, Spring Grove, IL 60081
- Terror in The Timbers — 3.7 rating
Photo from Terror in the Timbers Website
Haunted houses are not looking so good right now, as they are not always safe, but this haunted drive-thru will keep you terrified yet safe while you sit inside your car. The rest is a mystery.
Take your roommate or your family, as it is only 40 minutes away.
Address: 37W955 Big Timber Rd, Elgin, IL 60124
