After enduring a long, hot summer, it only makes sense to be looking forward to the cool, crisp autumn air that is right around the corner. While this type of weather is a favorite of many, it's a good idea to find ways that you can stay warm while the blustery conditions are around us in order to achieve that sense of fall comfort. In St. Charles, IL there is no shortage of ways that you can do just this, while still celebrating the harvest season. Take a look below and see for yourself!
1. Sip on a Fall Beverage
Photo #1 Courtesy of Biggby Coffee, Photo #2 Courtesy of Coroco Coffee
The autumn season means that delicious, fall flavors are back at coffee shops throughout St. Charles! Craving that classic Pumpkin Spice Latte you've been longing for all year? Stop by Biggby Coffee where you can get this fall delicacy, and also browse countless more coffee flavors from their BIGG List of Drinks! If you need a brief intermission from visiting all the businesses on 1st Street, you can stop into Coroco Coffee where they also have creative, tasty autumn drinks such as their Salted Caramel Pumpkin Spice Late or their Pumpkin Pie Dirty Chai. These are just a few of the many coffee options throughout this city that will provide you some warmth, while without a doubt, immersing you in the fall spirit.
2. Complete the Brew Tour
Photos Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography
This time of year is filled with Oktoberfest celebrations, making it the ideal season to complete our Brew Tour! Hosted on the Travel St. Charles App (which you can download here), this tour will take you to all the breweries in town: 93 Octane Brewery, Alter Brewing & Kitchen, Broken Brix Fermentation Emporium, D&G Brewing, Pollyanna Brewing & Distilling, and Riverlands Brewing. While at the brewery, simply "Check-In" to each location on the app. Once you've checked into all six locations, you'll be able to pick up a limited-edition Brew Tour t-shirt from the St. Charles Municipal Building, Monday through Friday from 8am to 1pm. Important note: this tour does not need to be completed all in one day - try breaking it up to savor all the fun! Please remember to drink responsibly!
3. Dine by a Firepit
Photo #2 Courtesy of Whiskey Bend
Just because the weather is starting to cool off doesn't mean that the outdoor dining season has to come to a close! In fact, one of the best things about the fall season is the opportunity to nestle up next to a fire in order to stay warm and cozy. For your next meal out, try choosing a spot in town that has an outdoor patio with a firepit, like at Whiskey Bend or The Office Dining & Spirits. Both of these gastropubs feature exceptional food and beverages, as well as weekly live music performances from some very talented local artists! Imagine experiencing the brisk fall weather next to a toasty fire, while enjoying a fantastic meal - it's the perfect recipe for a memorable night out!
4. Visit the St. Charles History Museum
Photos Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography
If you find yourself downtown exploring all the different local businesses, don't forget to stop by the St. Charles History Museum to not only warm up, but to also learn about the beginnings of this city. This museum has over 10,000 photos and 15,000 artifacts, making it an invaluable resource for the community. Catch their newest exhibit, "(Almost) Another Century of Progress," which showcases the involvement that St. Charles had with the 1933 World's Fair, while simultaneously celebrating this town's own centennial! However, this exhibit won't be on display for much longer; it will only be featured until the end of the year, so visit soon! While you're there, do some shopping at the Curious Fox Gift Shop, located at the museum. This store has assorted St. Charles keepsakes that you can take home to show off your city pride!
What's Your Ideal Way to Spend Autumn?
Going to a Local Establishment to Watch Sports
Viewing the Changing Colors of the Leaves
Partaking in Halloween Activities
Trying Local Ciders
5. Catch a Show
Photos Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography
If you're hoping to enjoy a nice evening out, why not visit one of the amazing theatres in town? St. Charles is home to an array of terrific venues that host first-class entertainment both in live music and in the performing arts. The Historic Arcada Theatre is a must-visit, having had numerous notable performers grace the stage over the years, and with over 250 events staged annually that includes plenty of concerts. The Moonlight Theatre frequently hosts live music performances, as well, along with comedy nights and much more. To take a deeper dive into the theatre scene in this city, please read our blog here.
6. Shop for Fall Décor
Photo #1 Courtesy of Trend + Relic, Photo #2 Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography
When the leaves begin to change, you know it's about time to start redecorating your home with lovely seasonal décor. Step out of the blustery winds and step inside some of the home décor shops in town such as Trend + Relic, The Pep Line, and House of Charlemagne, to just name a few. The experts at these stores can help you transform your home with a brand-new look for the harvest season. That way, every time you walk through your front door, you'll be surrounded by a charming autumn ambience. If you're wanting to add more of a "spooky look" to your living space, Ghoulish Mortals is your one-stop-shop! Ghoulish Mortals is a retail monster and horror store that is filled to the brim with unique pieces from talented artists and vendors. One shopping trip here and you'll be all set for Halloween!
7. Roll a Strike
Photos Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography
Nothing warms you up quite like a little friendly competition, so grab some family and friends and head down to the St. Charles Bowl! Located just west of downtown, this St. Charles staple has been part of the community for over 60 years. With 24 lanes, arcade games, food and drink, and much more, you won't be short on activities when you choose to visit. If you stop by on a Friday or Saturday night, you can take part in "Xtreme Bowling" where they have 159" screens playing your favorite music videos using their state-of-the-art sound system, and food and drink specials all night! If you'd like to book a lane for "Xtreme Bowling", please click here.
8. Make a Craft
Photo #1 Courtesy of Board & Brush, Photo #2 Courtesy of Pinot's Palette
If you're looking to avoid the cold weather completely, nothing does the trick better than picking up a new, indoor hobby - like art! But first, you'll need to learn the basic skills to get started. Channel your inner artist and take an art lesson at one of the studios in town, like Pinot's Palette, where they will teach you how to paint your very own masterpiece. To get started, simply go on their website and view their events here to pick out which project you'd like to do! If woodworking is more of what you're after, Board & Brush will walk you through step-by-step how to create your very own decorate wood sign, and you can also sign up beforehand on their calendar here. At both of these establishments, you can purchase beer and wine to sip on while you create, making this an exciting evening out if you want to round up a group of friends to do together. After taking your class, you'll have the basic skill set to be able to continue your new artistic hobby throughout the remainder of the chilly season.
This is the week that we've all been waiting for! The 38th annual St. Charles Scarecrow Weekend is back, and with 110+ scarecrows to admire, you are not going to want to miss out on this community tradition. To view the details, including the complete entertainment schedules, please click here.