Seven Champaign-Urbana Area Spots to Soak in the Fall Foliage
Good news! Time spent in nature is basically free therapy. And with the leaves finally starting to turn, you can get that serotonin boost among the brilliant oranges, yellows, and reds that define fall in CU. But remember: the show’s fleeting, so get off the couch, grab a jacket, and go outside while the vibrant colors are at their peak!
Here are some spots to get your fall foliage fix.
Japan House, Urbana
Get the day started right at one of our community's most gorgeous places to watch the colors change. Wake up early, grab a latte to-go from nearby Caffé Paradiso, and stroll the serene paths while breathing in the crisp morning air.
Busey Woods, Urbana
An immersive, scenic space that features the best autumn has to offer. Finding a postcard-worthy view among the 59 acres of bottomland oak-hickory forest is easy: just look up at the glowing canopy overhead! For best results, try a golden-hour hike, then settle in at The Main Scoop downtown for their seasonal pumpkin ice cream.
West Side Park, Champaign
Take a lunchtime stroll around this park literal steps from downtown Champaign, recently voted Illinois' favorite "Green Getaway" in a statewide poll about green spaces that help people feel calm and grounded. Don't forget to grab a sandwich from nearby Haypenny Market and claim a picnic table!
Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve, Mahomet
An idyllic setting for fall color, made even better with a short climb up the Bell Tower Carillon for a view from above. While you’re there, wander the Mabery Botanical Garden paths for a picture-perfect day. If you're feeling especially autumnal, stop by the Hive Honey Beetique for a bottle of regionally made mead to take home.
Homer Lake Forest Preserve, Homer
You'll want to stop by Art Coop in Urbana for some portable art supplies before heading out to this true escape for nature lovers. Pick a trail, find a bench by the water, and capture the blazing reds, oranges, and yellows along the calm shoreline, which pops with reflected color.
Allerton Park & Retreat Center, Monticello
Enjoy this breathtaking country estate featuring 1,500 acres of gorgeous natural areas and scenic backdrops. Be sure to stop at the Fu Dog Garden, where 22 blue porcelain Fu Dogs look especially stunning among the golden leaves, then pop into the on-site Greenhouse Café for a turkey-and-apple panini.
University of Illinois campus
Once the leaves turn, campus is a hotbed of truly incredible views. As you walk among the leaves drifting around the historic buildings and the Quad, you'll wish you were donning a corduroy blazer with elbow patches and a book of poetry under one arm. Once you've fully committed to the bit, head over to Murphy's Pub for a Guinness & Kilkenny.
However you decide to spend it, fall in Champaign-Urbana is hard to beat: crisp air, glowing leaves, and a good excuse to be outside. Take a walk, snap a few photos, and enjoy it while it lasts. Bare branches and snow will be here soon enough!