by Brianna Bartemeyer
MAKING FAMILIES SMILE SINCE 1949
AURORA–Do you wish you could bottle up this time of year? Brisk autumn air, bucolic getaways, fall foliage, sweater weather and bonfire nights. Yes, please! For many midwesterners, it’s a cherished time of year. With the changing seasons, there is an excitement that fills the air … a sense of hope and anticipation. If you’re looking to bottle up some outdoor fun and joy-filled memories this fall, stop by Abbey Farms in Aurora.
This unique, family-friendly farm is owned by the monks of Marmion Abbey. After opening to the public in 1949, their love of community has proved evident through their various seasonal offerings, hospitality and stewardship. Once a corn farm and dairy operation, this property now boasts 220 acres of adventure and fun - including Kane County’s largest corn maze (12 acres!), a farmers market and pumpkin farm. Be sure to step inside the Nagel Farmstead Emporium Store to enjoy some baked goodies - try the award-winning apple cider donuts! Everything is baked on-site and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
This year will mark 85 years since the first Christmas trees were planted at Abbey Farms. Come this holiday season, guests will have an opportunity to hunt around a 180-acre tree farm for the perfect tree! They offer ‘U-Cut’ and pre-cut Christmas trees. Check out Pine Tree Cafe this winter too, as Chef Dave will be serving up some tasty weekend favorites. And did you know that brewing beer is a centuries-old monastic tradition? Ask for a sample of Abbey Farms’ Marmion Abbey Ale. Prost!
