With fall colors in full swing, now is the perfect time to explore the beauty Illinois has to offer.

A recent ranking put Illinois among the best states to visit in the fall, landing 20th out of 48 states in a study by Lawn Starter. The rankings were based on several factors, including fall foliage, scenic drives, and pumpkin patches.

Illinois shines for several reasons. The state ranks 24th in the country for the number of weeks its fall foliage lasts, and 7th for the number of state parks. Outdoor enthusiasts will love that Illinois is 5th in the nation for outdoor activities, making it an ideal spot for fall adventures. In Quincy alone, there are numerous festivals and events to enjoy on fall weekends.

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It's surprising Illinois didn’t place higher in the rankings, considering it’s the top pumpkin-producing state in the world.

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With that in mind, one might expect it to land at least in the top 15. Interestingly, California, known for its year-round sunshine, took the number one spot, which feels a bit unfair for a fall-focused ranking—but Illinois still holds its own as a top destination for seasonal charm.

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Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz

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