LISLE, Ill. (Sept. 25, 2025)— The Morton Arboretum has launched its weekly Fall Color Report for 2025 to help visitors track the changing colors throughout the season and make the most of their fall visits. Updated every Wednesday through the season on the Arboretum’s website, the report provides real-time information about which species are changing, where to find the best colors and what to expect in the coming weeks.
As fall color season officially begins, the Arboretum’s diverse collections of nearly 4,100 different tree, shrub and vine species offer visitors a continual opportunity throughout the season to experience peak color as various species change at different times. The weekly Fall Color Report helps guests plan their visits to catch peak colors across the 1,700-acre site.
“The timing and intensity of fall color are unique to individual trees and species,” said Arboretum Senior Scientist in Forest Ecology Christy Rollinson, Ph.D. “While other areas may have one brief peak when sugar maples turn, our collections create an extended fall color season that gives visitors more opportunities to see brilliant displays from early October through late October, and beyond into November.”
Currently, early-changing species like Virginia creeper, honey-locust and some maples are creating beautiful focal points across the Arboretum, with more species joining the show each week. This week’s report notes early color in exposed areas such as parking lots or sunny areas, with Freeman maples, coffeetrees, tree lilacs, hackberries and redbuds showing early yellows.
The impact of weather conditions so far this season presents opposing forces this year. While warm temperatures tend to delay fall color, dry conditions affecting much of the Chicago region can accelerate color changes in drought-sensitive trees.
“Because most trees haven’t shut down for fall yet, continuing to water your trees is beneficial,” Rollinson said. “Conditions moving into October will influence timing and intensity – particularly moisture levels as days shorten and nights get colder.”
Fall Color Fun and Festivities at the Arboretum
The fall season marks the start of the Arboretum’s annual Fall Color Festival, with festivities for all ages throughout October. Hike 16 miles of trails through vibrant tree collections, drive or cycle 9 miles of scenic roads, or enjoy fall-themed special events and the Vivid Creatures outdoor art exhibition all season. Special events include the Cider and Ale Festival, Oct. 4; 15th annual Glass Pumpkin Patch, Oct. 10 through 12; Fall Wine Tasting, Oct. 16; Fall Color 5K Run and Walk, Oct. 25; and Walking Plays: “Farewell, Mr. Poe”, weekends Oct. 4 through Oct. 26. Please check mortonarb.org as tickets are selling fast.
Seasonal concessions will be available Fridays through Sundays Oct. 3 through Oct. 26 and Monday, Oct. 13 (Indigenous Peoples’ Day) from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Arbor Court area outside the Visitor Center, including apple cider doughnuts, taffy apples, cotton candy, warm kettle corn, warm pretzels, chili and a selection of craft beers and warm beverages.
For more information about Arboretum programs, special events and admission, visit mortonarb.org.