Looking for the best things to do in New York City in the fall? You’ve come to the right place!
New York in autumn is just as magical as you’d imagine. From the fall foliage engulfing Central Park to businesses getting ready for the holidays, the best time to visit NYC is in the fall.
This list of the best things to do in New York City in the fall has been eight years in the making. Like countless others, fall is my favorite season and I’m always out and about looking for some fun fall activities in New York City.
I wanted to make sure to cover absolutely everything you need to know before visiting NYC in the fall. So without further ado, lets get to the good stuff!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Pros of Visiting New York City in the fall
Fall in New York City provides the perfect weather for exploring
Mild NYC fall temperatures are the most comfortable weather for exploring. Average temperatures are between the low 50’s and high 70’s, so being outside for long periods is both easy and pleasant. The best time to visit for fall color is in mid to late October, when the leaves have turned but the trees aren’t completely bare yet.
Never ending fall festivities and events
New York City in the fall is chock-full of different festivals and events for both locals and visitors to attend. From Halloween parties to lighting the tree at Rockefeller Center after Thanksgiving, finding things to do in New York City during the fall should be a piece of cake pumpkin pie. 😉
Holiday spirit is in the air
Autumn in New York City is when the city comes alive with festive glee. The holiday season is right around the corner and businesses are bustling in preparation for eager shoppers. The cheery spirit is contagious and can be felt all around. Visiting New York City during the fall is equal parts charming as it is exciting!
Further Reading: Interested in more holiday content? Check out 20 Magical Things to Do During Christmas in NYC (+5 to AVOID)
Fall in NYC (Post Overview)
- Things to Do in the Fall New York City
- Is the New York City Pass worthwhile?
- Getting around New York City
- Map of best things to do in the fall New York City
Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.
F.Scott fitzgerald
Fall in New York City (Things to Do)
#1. Bike through Central Park’s fall foliage
Visiting Central Park is a non-negotiable anytime you’re visiting New York City, but in the fall? It’d be a crime not to visit!
Spanning more than 840 healthy acres, Central Park is an architectural feat that few can resist falling in love with, myself included. When the leaves start turning to fiery shades of yellow, orange and red it can feel surreal.
There’s so many iconic things to do in Central Park, which is why biking around is a great way to explore and make the most efficient use of your time.
You can bike to the mall, a tree lined promenade that’s covered under a sea of yellow leaves. Or pedal up to the Harlem Meer, a quiet, small lake in the north end of the park that’s just as vibrant.
As you can see biking through Central Park is one of the best things to do in New York City in the fall. The 18,000 trees create a colorful canopy that’s inspiring and impossible to look away from.
You May Enjoy Reading: 12 Epic Spots to See Fall Color in Central Park
#2. Get fall treats from the local farmers market
Is there anything better than fresh apple cider and donuts during the fall in NYC? I think not! Home to 48 farmers markets, there’s no shortage of fresh fall treats in the Big Apple.
My personal favorite market for apple cider goodies is Union Square Farmers Market. In my eight years living here, I’ve ate my fair share in calories and now encourage you to do the same.
Regardless of which vendor you buy from, walking around with a hot apple cider as you peruse the market can feel like a dream. Fall treats in New York City are too good to miss, so don’t forget to visit a market.
#3. Snap a photo under the pumpkin arch on Pier 17
Are you looking for one of the most Instagrammable spots during fall in NYC? Look no more.
Since 2020 Pier 17 has put together a free art instillation made up of over 500 pumpkins in the shape of an arch. Why? For no reason other than to provide a photo-op and bring folks joy.
Drawing people from all over the city, not only does this perfectly orange pumpkin arch make for great photos, the Brooklyn Bridge as the backdrop is stunning.
The massive pumpkin arch usually pops up around mid October and is located on Pier 17 at South Street Seaport. Snapping a photo with this masterpiece is one of the best things to do in New York City during the fall.
While technically there are no rules for how long you can take pictures, be courteous of those around you. Try to take your pictures quickly to maintain the flow of the line (and trust me, there will be a line).
Pro Tip: Visit the pumpkin arch at night for a magical experience. The arch is full of lights that add a whole new dimension to the arch and your photos.
#4. Celebrate Oktoberfest with friends
Want to book flights to Germany for Oktoberfest but lack the PTO, skymiles or budget to do so? This New York City fall tradition is the next best thing.
From September 8th (yes really, a whole month early) to October 29th you can enjoy Oktoberfest on Pier 15. The Watermark Bar on the pier pulls out all the stops.
Waitstaff in lederhosen, plenty of food and boatloads of beer help solidify Oktoberfest as one of the best activities in the fall in New York City. Don’t forget to drink responsibly, but have a good time.
Plus Pier 15 is a stone’s throw away from the pumpkin arch on Pier 17, meaning you can enjoy two NYC fall activities in the same afternoon. Best of all, Oktoberfest is a free event to get into. Register online and then pay for any beer or food you order while celebrating.
P.S. If drinking is not your style, no worries! Oktoberfest was set up to be a celebration that everyone can enjoy (kids included). Grab your friends and family and enjoy visiting New York City in the fall. There’s non-alcoholic drinks and plenty of food available, not to mention striking panoramic, waterfront views of the city.
#5. Go on the hunt for New York City’s best hot chocolate
Fall in New York City is all but guaranteed to bring chilly weather, so warming up with a drink is a must. Plus, the holidays might bring out your inner child, and let’s be honest, coffee doesn’t always cut it.
Hot chocolate is the perfect cozy fall drink regardless of your age or the time of day (and it doubles as a hand warmer!). So every year I make finding the best hot chocolate in New York City an fun fall game.
I know, poor thing! Having to try multiple hot chocolates to narrow down the best, it’s no easy task.
Here’s the quick rundown: If you like your hot chocolate rich and dark, I suggest checking out Jacques Torres or L. A. Burdick. If a lighter, thinner hot chocolate is more your style, head over to Levain for a delicious cup of cocoa.
For a deeper dive into the world of liquid gold read: 20 Cozy Cups of Cocoa | The Best Hot Chocolate in NYC
#6. Bundle up at a rooftop bar
Now before you arrive at a rooftop bar and promptly begin shaking like a cold chihuahua hear me out: fall in New York City brings forth a different rooftop bar experience.
Instead of fist-pumping during sunset, wearing shorts and drinking margaritas why not visit an (enclosed) rooftop bar in New York City in the fall? Think of it: cozy sweaters, warm boots, smokey drinks and heated rooftop views.
If budget and time aren’t concerns I recommend making an effort to dine at Mo Lounge. Mo Lounge is a restaurant within The Mandarin Oriental Hotel overlooking Central Park.
With drinks clocking in around $26, it is on the expensive side. However, the stunning views of Central Park in autumn are hard to beat and visiting is one of the best things to do in NYC in the fall.
If casual is more your style, Westlight in Brooklyn has epic views of the city (and tantalizing fries). It’s directly across from Midtown Manhattan so Billionare’s Row, Empire State, and Chrysler Buildings are just across the river.
#7. Wander neighborhoods to find the best Halloween decorations
I currently have an on-going debate with my husband on which New York City neighborhood is home to the best Halloween decorations. I’m partial to the (oh so charming) Greenwich Village, while my husband argues the Upper West Side is where it’s at.
Charming brownstones lined with spider webs, skeletons and vibrant pumpkins turn every day strolls through the city into an experience. Autumn in New York City is like no other.
One of the best things to do in New York City in the fall is to make time to wander through different neighborhoods checking out the Halloween decorations. Little ones will have a hoot, and even adults can enjoy the Halloween fun.
Regardless of which neighborhood you choose to explore during the fall in NYC, you won’t be disappointed!
If you’re visiting New York City in the fall and want the full tour of the best Halloween decorations we have the perfect article. 10 Spooky Spots for Halloween Decorations in New York City covers everything you need to know.
#8. Enjoy a pint of pumpkin beer
Finding delicious pumpkin beer in New York City in the fall will be an easy thing to achieve. You can find great options at any local pub or even at bodegas.
But what if I told you I know a spot that takes it one step further and serves pumpkin beer in a pumpkin keg? It’s true! Loreley Beer Garden on the Lower East Side is the genius behind this NYC fall tradition.
Between September 14th and October 31st grab your friends and enjoy a 60 oz pumpkin keg filled with pumpkin beer. The keg is fitted with a beer tap and you can roughly get 4-5 glasses of beer out of it.
But if you’re not a fan of pumpkin beer you can still partake in this NYC fall activity. You have the option to substitute the flavored beer with any beer Loreley’s has on tap at no extra charge.
#9. Enjoy a meal at Serra By Birreria
Serra By Birreria is located on the rooftop of Eataly in the Flatiron District. It’s a seasonal restaurant serving delicious Italian food and well crafted cocktails.
With every changing season, the restaurant manages to outdo the previous decor and spares no expense. Eating at Serra is both appetizing and fun, anyone with an appreciation for decor will be thoroughly impressed.
During the fall in NYC the decorations always take a colorful and cozy turn. The warm orange and red tones fill the restaurant with faux fall foliage climbing the ceiling.
It’s a great spot to catch up with friends over drinks or to snag a photo for Instagram. Tourists and locals alike can appreciate this lively restaurant as one of the most memorable things to do in the fall in New York City.
I bring all my out of town guests here when they visit New York City in the fall and they can’t get enough of the delightful decorations. As an added bonus, the food isn’t bad either. 😉
#10. Check out the Macy’s Day Parade
Few fall events in New York City loom as large as the Macy’s Day Parade. First started in 1924, it’s now a televised event folks can look forward to every Thanksgiving morning all across America.
For three hours every Thanksgiving, colorful 12 foot floats take over the autumn NYC streets. Starting at West 77th Street & Central Park West they run all the way to Macy’s Herald Square, the largest department store in the world.
To the tune of 27 million viewers cheering them on TV and another 3 million in person, it’s a New York City fall tradition unlike any other! You can’t afford to miss out on it (in person) if you are in town, some folks even travel here just for the parade.
The live broadcasting starts at 9:00 AM, but if you plan on attending this epic NYC fall event, I suggest showing up at least 2 hours early to get a good spot (but if you can, the earlier the better).
Pro Tip: Pack snacks and make coffee at home to take with you. The streets get crowded quickly and lines for coffee shops are ridiculous! Just don’t drink too much liquid, because there are no convenient restrooms.
#11. Go ice skating in Central Park
Ice skating at Wollman Rink is arguably one of the most iconic things to do in NYC during the fall. Located in the southern part of Central Park, the rink is open from late October through early April.
It’s one of the NYC fall activities everyone needs to add to their bucket list. Just think of this: Imagine yourself surrounded by colorful tree’s and crisp Central Park air, it’s the ultimate New York autumn experience.
But word to the wise: Wollman Rink gets crowded quickly during the fall in New York City, especially during weekends. Try to visit during the weekday and arrive early if your schedule allows.
Local’s tips: Wollman Rink is CASH-ONLY, but there’s an ATM onsite. We also wrote 12 Impressive Ice Skating Rinks in New York City (& Where to Skate For FREE!) in case you’re interested in more rinks.
#12. Stroll through Chelsea Market’s fall decorations
The Chelsea Market is a famous food hall mixed with unique shops, restaurants, spice markets, and cafes. The market has 35 vendors waiting to impress you with tasty treats and fare.
Therefore checking out Chelsea Market during your visit to New York City in the fall is a no-brainer. You can stop by for souvenirs or just grab a bite to eat.
Not to mention the Chelsea Market is like the house on the block that goes all out for Halloween or Christmas. No corners are cut when it comes to decorating, lucky us!
Corn stalks, hay bales, pumpkins and lights make the market a charming and easy stroll. Just look out during Halloween, there are motion activated witches and skeletons and are known to spook more than one guest.
When visiting New York City in the fall this is what I recommend at the Chelsea Market: Matcha from Chalait, warm donuts from the Doughnuttery, brunch from Sarabeth’s Bakery, pumpkin brownies from Fat Witch Bakery, spices from Spices and Tease and souvenirs from Pearl River Mart.
#13. Experience the tree lighting at Rockefeller Center
Date: November 29, 2023
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree lighting is an annual New York City tradition that dates back to 1933 officially (unofficially, construction workers put up the first tree in 1931).
The tree typically gets lit the end of November/early December, and in 2023 that date specifically falls on November 29th. Folks visiting New York City in the fall have an opportunity to be there when the switch gets flipped.
A new tree is selected every year with an impressive requirement: the tree must be at least 75 feet tall.
Decorated with more than 50,000 lights and topped with a breathtaking (and super bright) Swarovski star, seeing this masterpiece get lit for the first time (in person) is one of the best things to do in NYC in the fall.
#14. Warm up with a whiskey
One of my favorite NYC fall traditions is to sign up for whiskey tasting. New York City is home to some of the best bars in the world, and it would be a shame if you didn’t take advantage during your trip to NYC in the fall.
Many bars offer private whiskey tastings for large groups. If you can, gather a group of friends and learn about the whiskey making process. You’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for good drinks (and never go back to drinking the bottom shelf junk that reminds you of that bad night in college).
And if you’re traveling to NYC in the autumn alone or in a small group, I suggest popping into a bar for a whiskey flight. They’re less expensive and require less planning than a whiskey tasting and can be just as fun.
One of my favorite spots is The Flatiron Room, an award winning bar that has both tastings and flights. The tastings can be reserved online and there are many options to choose from.
Although you can enjoy this activity year round it’s especially cozy during the fall in New York City. The smokey whiskey and dim-lit bars can make you feel like you’re in a cabin in the woods, warming up after a long day.
Further reading: Need more options? Check out 10 Memorable Manhattan Bars Everyone Should Visit
#15. Pick a pumpkin from Queens County Farm
Dates: September 30 to October 31st, 2023 (Closed October 29th)
When I first moved to New York City eight years ago from the Pacific Northwest I was worried I’d be giving up essential fall activities.
My first thought was where the hell does someone get a pumpkin for Halloween? Sure bodegas are great and they get the job done, but it’s not the same. I need the full fall experience.
To my surprise, typical “suburban” fall activities like going to a pumpkin patch are still actually possible in New York City! Queens County Farm has been around for over 300 years and plays a huge role in that.
They host an annual pumpkin patch that is open daily from September 30th to October 31st. The hours will be Monday thru Friday from 12 PM-4:30 PM and Saturday & Sunday from 10:00 AM-4:30 PM.
Best part? Free admission! Pumpkins are priced by size if you do choose to get one making fall in New York City no less magical than your hometown. Just remember to bring your own bag for the commute back to the city.
And like most small town pumpkin patches, Queens County Farm has a corn maze. I’ve learned one of the best things to do in NYC in the fall is to attempt to do the corn maze at night, but wear boots because it can get muddy!
#16. Grab a burger at Oscar Wilde
Making reservations at Oscar Wilde during the fall in NYC is non-negotiable. The restaurant decorates for the autumn in a way that is unmatched.
Every inch of the place gets decorated (including the ceiling), minimalism has no place here. During the Halloween season it gets a spooky makeover, and folks dining in costumes is par for the course.
Truth be told, the food is decent but won’t rock your socks. This is the kind of place you visit for the fun experience, not just a hearty dinner.
Having said that the drinks are incredible! There’s a plethora of fun and innovative cocktails to choose from that will make your fall in New York City vacation memorable and exciting.
Quick history lesson: Oscar Wilde was an Irish poet and one of the most popular playwrights in the late 19th century best known for his wit and flamboyance.
Unfortunately, Wilde’s reputation was tarnished after falling in love with a man. As you probably know, in the Victorian era being gay was not only frowned upon, but a crime. So much so that Wilde spent two years in prison because of it.
This Victorian style restaurant is a way to celebrate all that Oscar Wilde stood for. Hosting an impressive art (and object) collection dating back to the 1800’s you can enjoy a French fireplace from the 1840’s, stained glass from an Irish castle and so much more.
PS, check out all the clocks in the restaurant. You’ll find that they are set to 1:50. The reason? That’s the time that Oscar Wilde died. No corners are cut when it comes to attention to detail here!
#17. Check Out the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park Holiday Market
Bryant Park is a reminder that big things come in small packages, the park is tiny but is arguably the most lively in Manhattan. There’s a fun-filled schedule of activities happening year round, but none are as popular as the annual Bank of America Holiday Market.
The park is transformed into a European-style holiday market, equipped with 100 vendors that lining a popular ice skating rink. You might be wondering if you’re still on the right article, since you’re interested in the best things to do in New York City in the fall – not Christmas.
Fret not, you’re still in the right place. The market usually starts going up in late October or early November, meaning if you’re visiting New York City in the fall you can still peruse the market.
The stalls sell fun Christmas decorations, handmade crafts, unique jewelry and — my favorite — food, lots of good food. Grab a hot chocolate or mulled wine as you make your way around the lively market.
And if you’re visiting New York City in the fall with kids, the 17,000-square foot ice rink is free to use! Ice skate rentals run $20-$36 per person, which is how they get you but it’s a fun activity nonetheless.
Further reading: The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park is one of 10 Cheerful Christmas Markets in New York City (Most Worth the Visit!)
#18. Be amazed by the Tompkins Square Park Halloween Parade
Yup, Tompkins Square Park throws an annual Halloween parade for dogs and it’s just as adorable as it sounds!
Folks from all over flood the East River Park Amphitheater with their pups dressed in ridiculously cute costumes creating one of the best fall activities in NYC.
Since moving to NYC I learned New Yorkers don’t mess around when it comes to their dogs, so why would Halloween be any different? Especially when there are awards at stake!
Clear your schedule on October 21st because you’re not going to want to miss this. The creativeness and dedication leaves me speechless year after year. A lot of the dogs I see at the parade are dressed better than me.
Whether you own a dog or not, this New York City fall activity is so stinking precious you are guaranteed to melt into a puddle from all the cuteness.
#19. Take an after-hours tour of Green-Wood Cemetery
Hear me out on this one. I know some folks might consider the mention of a cemetery creepy. but trust me. Visiting Green-Wood Cemetery is one of the best things to do in New York City in the fall, it’s so peaceful.
Not to mention, Green-Wood Cemetery has a plethora of NYC fall events to choose from. You can take tours of the cemetery (after dark), participate a Crime and Catastrophe trolley tour or enjoy live music and entertainment.
Oh, and I should mention a fascinating 25-year creative installation located at the cemetery. The installation, called Here Lie the Secrets of the Visitors of Green-Wood Cemetery, is a grave designed specifically for secrets. Visitors can write their most intimate secrets on a sheet of paper and finally lay them to rest.
Check out Green-Wood Cemetery’s calendar here and plan the prefect spooky night while visiting New York City in the fall. Just remember, this is the final resting place for more than half a million people, so be respectful.
#20. Take a fall foliage cruise
What better way to soak in New York City in the fall than aboard a 1920s-style yacht that takes you past all the major sites in Manhattan?
Because aboard Classic Harbor Line’s Fall Foliage Cruise you get to enjoy the magic of New York’s fall foliage and skyline from a cozy vessel.
You’ll be tucked inside a heated observatory completely decked out in festive decor. Listen to the charming music playing in the background as you take in the sights and make an unforgettable memory.
Beer, wine, Champagne and hot beverages are available for sale on board, and you won’t want to partake in this joyful NYC fall experience without a hot chocolate in hand.
You can get your tickets here and enjoy one of the best things to do in New York City in the fall.
#21. Enjoy Boo at the Zoo
Finding fall activities in New York City for kids isn’t always easy, which is why I really appreciate Boo at the Zoo. Every year the Bronx Zoo hosts a Halloween party in NYC the whole family can take part in.
Guests are encouraged to show up in costume and take part in a day of fun. The zoo has candy trails so kids can trick or treat alongside their favorite animals.
It’s an educational day too, since the zoo shows what some of the animals’ favorite snacks are as well. Trust me when I say your little ones will be grinning from ear to ear!
There’s a multitude of arts and crafts kids can take part in, as well as a magician, pumpkin carving shows, and a costume parade that takes place three times a day.
Long story short, this is one of the best things to do in New York City in the fall with kids, but tickets must be purchased in advance. The zoo uses flex pricing, which means it will vary depending on demand so book yours well ahead of time to avoid paying a higher price.
Boo at the Zoo takes place on Saturdays and Sundays from September 30th – October 29th, 2023.
Address: 2300 Southern Blvd, The Bronx, NY 10460
Further reading: Bronx Zoo is on our list of 18 Breathtaking Spots for Fall Foliage in New York City, check out why.
#22. Cheer on the local football teams
It should go without saying, New Yorkers are passionate. Passionate about their food, passionate about their neighborhoods, passionate about their sports teams.
If you find yourself visiting New York City in the fall I strongly recommend attending a football game. The season is in full swing and you have two teams who play their home games across the state line in New Jersey.
Since the New York Jets and the New York Giants share a stadiums there’s usually a game every weekend (one week the Jets, the next week the Giants etc.)
And incredibly – for the first time in years, both teams have legitimate reasons to be excited. Playoff hopes are high and the fan bases have a renewed spark that will make home games electric.
If you’re really looking for a thrilling experience then one of the best things to do in New York City in fall is to attend the rivalry game between the two local teams. On October 29th the Jets and the Giants face off in it will be a game for the ages.
#23. Visit Fall-o-Ween at the New York Botanical Garden
One of my favorite New York City fall activities is celebrating Fall-O-Ween at the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG).
Beginning September 16th, NYBG kicks off the autumn season with loads of pumpkins, hordes of gourds and plenty of NYC fall activities.
If you’re visiting New York City in the fall, you won’t want to miss it! This is especially true if you’re a gardener, horticulturalist or plant enthusiast.
A personal favorite of mine is the Pumpkin Parade Weekend. The entire weekend is chock-full of pumpkins, families and Halloween festivities. Kiddos dress up in their Halloween costumes and get to strut down Garden Way showing off the cutest looks.
Aside from the parade, you can expect to see pumpkins larger than life and pumpkin carvings like never before. Here is the calendar for New York Botanical Garden so you can maximize your time in New York City in the fall.
Pricing varies depending on age, non-residents can plan to pay $35 for adults & $15 for ages 2-12 (Kiddos under 2 are free!). Residents of NYC can plan to pay $15 for adults & $4 for ages 2-12.
#24. Participate in the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade
This year is the 50th annual Halloween Parade NYC hosted in Greenwich Village. The tradition started with a solo mask-maker and puppeteer who walked his neighborhood streets for the local kids’ entertainment.
By the third year the NYC Halloween parade developed into a non-profit organization full of volunteers who dedicate themselves to keeping the New York City fall tradition alive. Growing to more than 50,000 costumed participants a year I’d say the parade is very much alive and well.
As far as fall activities in New York City go, the Halloween parade in Greenwich Village tops the list. If you’re in the city on October 31st this is where you want to be.
The parade can be viewed on both sides of 6th Avenue between King St. and 15th St.
There are also a handful of ways to participate. The Halloween parade is always looking for volunteers and if you want a more flashy role consider actually being in the parade. This year the theme is Upside/Down : Inside/Out!.
There’s also a costume contest, which you automatically enter just by showing up in costume. The Halloween Parade has “secret scouts” looking for the most original and fun costumes. Prizes are announced after the parade.
Address: 6th Avenue between King St. and 15th St.
#25. Explore the fall colors in the West Village
The West Village is arguably the most charming neighborhood in New York City. And just when you think it can’t possibly be anymore enjoyable, just wait until fall in NYC.
There’s a plethora of great cafes in the area so grab a warm drink and walk around with your special someone close by. Even if you’re only visiting New York City in the fall for a few days, carve time to peruse this charming neighborhood.
Admire the brownstones, pop into cozy shops, spend a few minutes appreciating the decorated window displays and walk the empty streets to your hearts content.
This is the kind of neighborhood folks envision when they day dream of living in New York City. Hell, it’s the kind of neighborhood locals dream of but often can’t afford (maybe one day I’ll live here).
But not everything can (or should) be planned. Make time during your trip for aimless wandering – you won’t regret it! Admire the fall colors in New York City and be prepared to pull up apartment listings because it’s hard not to fall under the West Village’s spell.
For a deeper dive into the neighborhood read 22 Exciting Things to Do in New York City’s Charming Greenwich Village.
Tips for Visiting NYC in the Fall
Comfortable walking shoes are a must
You will be doing a lot of walking while exploring New York City in the fall. The subway is efficient but sometimes it’s better to walk between places to absorb more of the city — the skyline is euphoric and the color of the city is magical.
Bring your most comfortable pair of shoes because you’ll be getting those steps in, I guarantee it.
Expect Crowds
The Big Apple averages more than 63 million visitors per year, crowds are all but guaranteed especially during fall in NYC.
That’s a lot of people trying to eat at the same popular restaurants and do the same popular thing. With holiday season slowly creeping in, prepare for crazy long lines while visiting New York City in the autumn.
Treat the sidewalk like a highway
Nothing bothers a New Yorker more than a person that stops smack-dab in the middle of the sidewalk. It’s inconsiderate and you’re all but guaranteed to garner eye rolls.
There’s two ways you could inadvertently hog the sidewalk: walking side-by-side in a large group and stopping in the middle of the sidewalk, effectively preventing access. Make sure you step to the side of the sidewalk if you need to stop. This way your trip to New York City in the fall will be both fun and courteous!
Best Things to Do New York City Autumn (Post Summary)
In sum, these are the best things to do in the fall in New York City.
- Stroll (or bike) through Central Park
- Enjoy fresh apple cider & apple cider donuts
- Snap a picture at the pumpkin arch on Pier 17
- Celebrate Oktoberfest with friends
- Try to find New York City’s best hot chocolate
- Bundle up at a rooftop bar
- Find the best Halloween decorations
- Get your fill of pumpkin beer
- Dine under the fall decorations at Serra By Birria
- Check out the Macy’s Day Parade
- Go ice skating surrounded by fall foliage in Central Park
- Stroll through Chelsea Market’s fall decorations
- Experience the tree lighting at Rockefeller Center
- Warm up with a whiskey
- Pick a pumpkin from Queens County Farm
- Grab a burger at Oscar Wilde
- Bryant Park Winter Village & Ice Skating
- Check out Tompkins Square Halloween dog parade
- Take an after-hours tour of Green-Wood Cemetery
- Take in the fall foliage from a cruise
- Check out Boo at the Zoo
- Cheer on the local football teams
- Visit Fall-o-Ween at the New York Botanical Garden
- Participate in the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade
- Explore the fall colors in the West Village
Map of Best Fall Activities New York City
I hope you enjoyed this guide as much as I enjoyed creating it! Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions – happy to help! Hopefully this guide makes visiting New York City in the fall a breeze (pun-intended).
Cheers!
There are a lot of great events listed here but watching the New York Marathon along with thousands and thousands of others including endless street musicians has always been a favorite of mine. For visitors, they can come for the Halloween Parade and the Marathon because they are usually only a couple days apart.