As the days get shorter and the air gets crisper, there’s no better time to be in New York City than fall. The city comes alive with vibrant colors, festive events, and endless opportunities to soak up the autumnal atmosphere. Whether you’re a local looking for new ways to experience the season or a visitor planning a fall getaway, this guide has everything you need to make the most of your time in the Big Apple..
**1. Admire the Foliage in Central Park**.
Central Park is a must-visit destination in New York City, and it’s especially stunning in the fall. The park’s 843 acres are ablaze with color as the leaves of the trees turn from green to vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride through the park, or rent a rowboat and float along the tranquil waters of the lake..
**2. Visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden**.
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is another great place to enjoy the fall foliage. The garden’s 52 acres are home to a diverse collection of plants, including trees, shrubs, flowers, and herbs. In the fall, the garden’s Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden is particularly beautiful, with its vibrant maples and gingkos..
**3. Attend the New York City Marathon**.
The New York City Marathon is one of the most iconic sporting events in the world, and it’s a great way to experience the city’s fall atmosphere. The marathon takes place on the first Sunday in November, and it winds its way through all five boroughs of the city. Cheering on the runners is a great way to get into the fall spirit and see the city from a different perspective..
**4. Go Apple Picking**.
Apple picking is a quintessential fall activity, and there are plenty of orchards within easy reach of New York City. Head to one of the many orchards in the Hudson Valley or New Jersey, and spend a day picking your own apples. You can also enjoy hayrides, pumpkin picking, and other fall-themed activities at many of the orchards..
**5. Visit a Pumpkin Patch**.
Pumpkin patches are another popular fall destination. There are many pumpkin patches located throughout the city, where you can pick your own pumpkin or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere. Some of the most popular pumpkin patches in New York City include the Great Pumpkin Farm in Queens and the Decker Farm in Staten Island..
**6. Take a Fall Foliage Cruise**.
A fall foliage cruise is a great way to see the city’s skyline and the surrounding countryside from a different perspective. There are several different cruise companies that offer fall foliage cruises, ranging from short sightseeing cruises to longer dinner cruises..
**7. Attend a Fall Festival**.
There are many fall festivals held throughout New York City, offering a variety of activities for all ages. Some of the most popular fall festivals include the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade, the Queens County Farm Museum’s Fall Festival, and the New York Botanical Garden’s Pumpkin Party..
**8. Go for a Hike**.
Hiking is a great way to enjoy the fall foliage and get some exercise at the same time. There are many hiking trails located within easy reach of New York City, including trails in the Hudson Valley, the Catskill Mountains, and the New Jersey Palisades..
**9. Visit a Museum**.
New York City is home to some of the world’s best museums, and many of them offer special fall-themed exhibitions. Some of the most popular fall exhibitions include the American Museum of Natural History’s .
