From southern California to Maine, the 15 spots in America where the fall colors are most breathtaking. We're so lucky that one of those spots is in Illinois.

There is nothing quite like the transition from summer to fall in the Midwest. It is absolutely my favorite seasonal change, slightly beating out the (hoped-for) quick transition out of winter.

When Peak Fall Colors Arrive in Illinois

Will this be the year you finally make a road trip to hike, eat, sip, shop, relax and take in all of the fall colors? The Illinois Fall Color Report is a great resource to see when peak colors arrive throughout the state.

Until I make my own trip to this spot that made it onto the list of the 15 Best Places To Spot Fall Colors in the U.S., I feel that Galena, Illinois is going to be pretty tough to beat.

Galena, Illinois in the Fall

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Farmer's Almanac named a state park in west central Illinois as the 8th best place in the U.S. to see crispy, warmed-toned leaves throughout the season, according to nbcchicago.com.

What Illinois spot made it onto the 15 Best Destinations for Fall Foliage in the U.S.

Pere Marquette State Park

Pere Marquette State Park via Facebook
Pere Marquette State Park via Facebook
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Pere Marquette State Park

Located just north of Grafton, Pere Marquette State Park spans over 8,000 unbelievably beautiful acres. The park also sits right in the middle of where the Illinois and Mississippi rivers meet.

Nazareth Living Center via Facebook
Nazareth Living Center via Facebook
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The natural beauty of this park will be perfect from a canoe, a kayak, on the back of a horse, or on foot. The park has 12 unforgettable miles of trails to take in, also.

The fall is also a great time to catch a glimpse of wildlife on the ground and eagles soaring overhead.

For more helpful tips and information to plan your trip to Pere Marquette State Park, click here.

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