Things to Do in New York City in Autumn – Big Apple Fall Bucket List
New York City is magical year-round, but autumn might just be the best time to visit. As the summer heat fades and the crisp air rolls in, the city transforms into a wonderland of vibrant foliage, festive celebrations, and cozy activities. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime local, there’s no shortage of things to do in NYC during the fall season. From leaf-peeping in Central Park to indulging in seasonal treats, here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of autumn in the Big Apple.
Colorful Fall Foliage
Autumn in New York means one thing: breathtaking foliage. The city’s parks and green spaces explode into a vibrant tapestry of red, orange, and gold. Here are some of the best spots in NYC to find colorful fall foliage:
Central Park
There’s no better place to witness the magic of fall than Central Park. Take a leisurely stroll along The Mall, row a boat on the lake, or explore The Ramble for an immersive nature experience. The Bow Bridge and Bethesda Terrace are particularly stunning when framed by autumn hues.
Prospect Park
Brooklyn’s answer to Central Park, Prospect Park offers a quieter, less touristy alternative. Take a scenic walk around the lake, visit the Ravine for a woodland escape, or have a picnic at Long Meadow while surrounded by autumn leaves.
The High Line
For a unique, elevated foliage experience, visit The High Line. This transformed railway-turned-park offers a mix of wildflowers, golden leaves, and stunning views of Manhattan’s skyline.
Fort Tryon Park and The Cloisters
Located in Upper Manhattan, Fort Tryon Park boasts some of the best fall views overlooking the Hudson River. The medieval-style Cloisters Museum, a branch of The Met, adds a historic charm to your visit.
Foodies Love Fall Seasonal Treats
Autumn is the perfect time to indulge in warm, comforting foods and drinks. Here’s what you need to try:
Pumpkin-Spiced Everything
From pumpkin spice lattes at local cafes to pumpkin-flavored pastries at Dominique Ansel Bakery and Magnolia Bakery, NYC takes its pumpkin obsession seriously.
Hot Apple Cider and Donuts
Visit the Union Square Greenmarket for freshly pressed hot apple cider and homemade cider donuts.
Chai Tea from Joe Coffee
Sipping a warm cup of chai from Joe Coffee in NYC on a crisp fall afternoon, with the aroma of spices blending perfectly with the golden hues of Central Park, feels like autumn in a cup.
Hot Chocolate from Le Pain Quotidien
Le Pain Quotidien’s hot chocolate is a rich, velvety treat served in a signature bowl, perfect for a cozy and indulgent experience.
Ramen and Hot Soup
As temperatures drop, warm up with a steaming bowl of ramen from spots like Ippudo or Momofuku Noodle Bar.
Seasonal Cocktails
Many bars create autumn-themed cocktails featuring apple, cinnamon, and bourbon. Check out rooftop bars like Refinery Rooftop or 230 Fifth for fall drinks with a view.
Visit Brooklyn Heights in the Fall
Brooklyn Heights in the fall is pure magic. This historic neighborhood, just across the East River from Manhattan, transforms into a picturesque autumn wonderland with tree-lined streets, brownstones draped in golden leaves, and stunning views of the NYC skyline.
Foliage and Brownstone Charm
The streets of Brooklyn Heights, especially along streets like Hicks, Willow, and Pierrepont, are lined with trees that turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Brooklyn Heights Promenade
One of the best skyline views in NYC! In the fall, it’s extra special with crisp air, golden sunsets, and a perfect spot for a scenic walk. If you’re traveling to NYC with a baby, this a great area for a stroller walk.
Cozy Cafés and Bakeries
Stop by L’Appartement 4F for a croissant and coffee, or a warm cup of chai.
Halloween Decorations
The brownstones go all out with pumpkins, cobwebs, and spooky décor, making it an awesome spot for a fall-themed photo op.
Fall Inspired Shopping in NYC
Fall in NYC is the perfect time for cozy, stylish shopping, from browsing warm knitwear and pumpkin spice-scented candles at boutiques to hunting for vintage gems at thrift stores.
Thrift and Vintage Shops
- L Train Vintage – Affordable vintage sweaters, flannels, and denim.
- Beacon’s Closet – Trendy second-hand finds, perfect for layering.
- Housing Works Thrift Shops – Cozy coats and stylish fall accessories for a good cause.
- Cure Thrift – Unique vintage pieces, from chunky knit sweaters to leather boots.
- Buffalo Exchange – A mix of trendy and timeless fall wardrobe staples.
Cozy Home and Lifestyle Stores
- P.F. Candle Co. (at various shops like Catbird NYC) – Fall-scented candles (think pumpkin, cinnamon, and cedarwood).
- Fishs Eddy – Quirky fall-themed mugs and tableware for autumn entertaining.
- McNally Jackson Goods for the Study – Beautiful autumn-inspired stationery and journals.
- Strand Bookstore – The perfect spot for cozy fall reads and literary-themed gifts.
Fall Fashion Boutiques
- Sézane – Parisian-inspired knits and autumn-perfect coats.
- Madewell (SoHo) – Classic denim, boots, and oversized scarves.
- Anthropologie (Chelsea Market) – Boho-chic sweaters and fall home décor.
- Aritzia (Fifth Ave) – Stylish wool coats and cozy layering pieces.
- Everlane (Prince St.) – Sustainable sweaters and neutral fall tones.
Fall Market and Specialty Foods
- Chelsea Market – Fall treats like pumpkin bread and artisanal chocolates.
- Le District – French-inspired seasonal foods and warm beverages.
- Eataly Flatiron – Autumnal Italian treats, truffle-based goods, and gourmet hot chocolate.
- Balducci’s – Balducci’s in the fall is a gourmet haven filled with seasonal delights, from artisanal cheeses to hearty soups perfect for cozy autumn days.
Recreate Scenes from When Harry Met Sally at Real Film Locations
Step into the world of When Harry Met Sally by visiting the real-life NYC locations where iconic scenes were filmed. Many of then at the peak of the autumn season!
Katz’s Delicatessen (205 E Houston St, Lower East Side)
Recreate that famous “I’ll have what she’s having” scene while enjoying a legendary pastrami sandwich.
Central Park – The Mall and Loeb Boathouse
Walk through the picturesque, tree-lined Mall where Harry and Sally stroll in autumn, or rent a boat at the Loeb Boathouse for a romantic nod to their conversations.
Washington Square Park (Greenwich Village)
Channel the film’s NYC energy by strolling under the iconic arch, just like Harry and Sally did in their deep conversations.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art Steps (1000 5th Ave)
Pose outside the Met like in one of the film’s subtle New York moments, taking in the beauty of the city.
Shakespeare & Co. Bookstore (939 Lexington Ave)
A nod to the bookshop scene, where the charm of NYC’s literary spots plays a role in their relationship.
Café Luxembourg (200 W 70th St, Upper West Side)
Dine at this classic bistro reminiscent of the film’s cozy restaurant scenes.
Puck Building (295 Lafayette St, SoHo)
Visit the exterior of Sally’s apartment, a quintessential NYC backdrop.
Explore Haunted Attractions
For those who love a good scare, NYC offers plenty of haunted experiences:
Blood Manor
This haunted house in SoHo is known for its terrifyingly realistic horror scenes.
Green-Wood Cemetery Night Tours
Join a nighttime lantern-lit tour of Brooklyn’s historic cemetery, home to famous figures and eerie legends.
Take a Fall Foliage Cruise
For a different perspective of NYC’s autumn beauty, hop on a Hudson River cruise. Companies like Classic Harbor Line offer scenic boat rides where you can admire the colorful foliage along the Palisades while sipping on warm cider.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities Before Winter Sets In
Take advantage of the cool but comfortable weather before the deep chill of winter arrives:
Bike Around the City
Rent a Citi Bike and cycle through Central Park, along the Hudson River Greenway, or across the Brooklyn Bridge.
Take a Scenic Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
Enjoy a sunset with Manhattan’s skyline framed by the golden hues of autumn.
Visit Governors Island
Until late October, this car-free oasis offers biking, hammocks, and stunning waterfront views of NYC’s autumn skyline.
Rooftop Movie Nights
Many venues, like Rooftop Cinema Club, host cozy outdoor screenings with blankets and warm drinks.
Go Apple Picking and Visit a Pumpkin Patch
While NYC itself doesn’t have apple orchards, you can take a day trip to farms in Upstate New York, Long Island, or New Jersey.
Best Apple Picking Farms Near NYC:
- Fishkill Farms (Upstate NY)
- Harbes Family Farm (Long Island)
- Masker Orchards (Warwick, NY)
Pumpkin Patches Near NYC:
- Queens County Farm Museum
- Decker Farm (Staten Island)
- Alstede Farms (New Jersey)
Get Cozy in a Library or Bookstore
Cooler weather is perfect for curling up with a good book. Visit these cozy spots:
The Morgan Library and Museum
A stunning historic library with rare manuscripts and old-world charm.
The Strand Bookstore
Browse “18 miles of books” and find the perfect autumn read.
New York Public Library (Main Branch)
Step inside this iconic Beaux-Arts building, and don’t forget to visit the Rose Main Reading Room.
Watch Broadway Shows and Seasonal Performances
Fall is a great time to catch a Broadway show, as new productions premiere before the holidays. Check out The Lion King, Wicked, or a new fall debut. For something festive, book tickets for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes.
Capture Stunning Fall Photos
NYC in the fall is Instagram gold. Best photo spots include:
- DUMBO (Brooklyn Bridge with fall colors in the background)
- Gapstow Bridge in Central Park
- Washington Square Park (the arch framed by autumn leaves)
- Top of the Rock (sweeping views of Central Park’s fall foliage)
Mark Your Calendar For These Annual Fall Events in NYC
The Village Halloween Parade (October 31st)
One of NYC’s most iconic events, this Greenwich Village parade features elaborate costumes, giant puppets, and live performances. Join the costumed masses or watch the spectacle from the sidelines.
NYC Wine & Food Festival (October)
Calling all foodies! This star-studded event features celebrity chefs, gourmet tastings, and endless wine pairings.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (November)
Kick off the holiday season by watching the iconic parade featuring massive balloons, Broadway performances, and marching bands. Stake out a good viewing spot along Central Park West or 6th Avenue.
September New York Fashion Week
September Fashion Week in New York City is a premier event that kicks off the global fashion month, showcasing the hottest trends for the upcoming spring and summer seasons. Held in early September, this week-long spectacle brings together top designers, fashion influencers, celebrities, and industry insiders to witness groundbreaking collections.
Holiday Season in NYC
In New York City, as the vibrant colors of fall fade and the last leaves drift from the trees, the city seamlessly transforms into a winter wonderland, kicking off the magical Christmas season. Streets glow with dazzling holiday lights, store windows along Fifth Avenue become elaborate festive displays, and the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree stands tall with holiday spirit. Ice skaters glide across rinks, carolers fill the air with cheer, and holiday markets bustle with shoppers searching for the perfect gifts.
As Christmas fades into the New Year, the excitement builds to its peak in Times Square, where thousands gather in the crisp winter air to watch the legendary ball drop at midnight. See our guide to spending New Year’s Eve in person standing in Times Square.
In Conclusion
Autumn in New York City is a season like no other. With breathtaking foliage, festive events, and cozy seasonal activities, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the city. Whether you’re sipping hot apple cider in a park, exploring haunted houses, or cruising along the Hudson, NYC in the fall is an experience you won’t want to miss.
So grab your sweater, lace up your boots, and embrace the magic of autumn in the Big Apple!
