Fall in New York offers a unique chance to enjoy cooler weather and vibrant scenery with friends. The city has many activities that bring people together during this season. From outdoor adventures to cultural events, there is something for everyone to experience.
The best fall activities in New York create meaningful moments with friends while showcasing the city’s seasonal charm. Spending time outdoors or exploring local events helps people connect and make the most of autumn’s special atmosphere.
1) Apple picking at Masker Orchards
Masker Orchards is a family-run orchard in Warwick, New York. It offers a 200-acre area for apple picking, just about an hour from New York City.
Visitors can drive right up to the apple trees with their families and picnic gear. The orchard is known for being pet friendly and affordable.
Parking and admission are free. Guests only pay for the apples they pick. It is a simple, relaxed way to enjoy the fall season with friends.
More details can be found at Masker Orchards’ official site.
2) Corn maze at Queens County Farm Museum
The Queens County Farm Museum features a three-acre corn maze open in the fall. Visitors can navigate puzzles and clues while exploring the maze.
It is the only corn maze in New York City and offers a fun challenge for friends. The maze runs on weekends through October.
For more details, visit the Amazing Maize Maze page at Queens County Farm Museum.
3) Fall-O-Ween at New York Botanical Garden
Fall-O-Ween is a seasonal event held from late September to October at the New York Botanical Garden. It features pumpkins, gourds, and autumn flowers throughout the garden. Visitors can enjoy activities like pumpkin carving and craft beer tastings. The event offers fun for all ages in a festive fall setting. More details are available at the New York Botanical Garden’s Fall-O-Ween event.
4) Scenic drive through Hudson Valley
They can enjoy a scenic drive along the Hudson Valley, known for its rolling hills and vibrant fall colors. The route includes stops like the Walkway Over the Hudson and historic estates. This drive offers easy access to small towns and state parks perfect for a quick visit.
More details on routes and sights are available in this Hudson Valley road trips guide.
5) Pumpkin patch at Harbes Family Farm
Harbes Family Farm offers a large pumpkin patch on Long Island’s North Fork. Visitors can pick pumpkins right from the vine in an eight-acre patch.
The farm also features a corn maze, hayrides, and fall-themed foods like fresh apple cider and apple cider donuts. It is a popular spot for families and friends.
Harbes has three locations: Mattituck, Jamesport, and Riverhead, with the pumpkin patch festival mainly at Mattituck. It combines outdoor fun with fresh farm produce.
For more details, visit Harbes Family Farm’s pumpkin patch and fall attractions page.
6) Leaf-peeping in Central Park
Central Park has over 18,000 trees that change color in the fall. This creates a mix of yellow, orange, and red leaves.
The best time to see peak colors is usually in early November. Visitors can walk along many paths to enjoy the vibrant views.
Popular spots include the Mall, the Reservoir, and the North Woods. These areas offer great opportunities for photos and relaxing walks.
For more details on where to find the best fall foliage, see the guide to fall foliage in Central Park.
7) Outdoor movie nights in Bryant Park
They can enjoy free outdoor movies at Bryant Park. The lawn opens at 5 pm, and films start at 8 pm.
It is a popular spot in Midtown, near the New York Public Library. Food is available nearby during screenings.
These movie nights usually run through the summer and early fall. Attendees often bring blankets for seating.
More details and schedules are available on the Bryant Park movie nights page.
8) Harvest festival at Wave Hill
Wave Hill hosts a harvest festival with activities like cornhusk doll making and pumpkin-pie workshops. It offers a calm way to enjoy fall in New York City.
Visitors can also explore beautiful gardens showing peak fall colors during the event.
The festival is family-friendly and provides hands-on experiences connected to the season. More details are available at Wave Hill’s official event page.
9) Cycling the Brooklyn Greenway
The Brooklyn Greenway offers a 26-mile bike route along the waterfront. It is a safe, traffic-free path perfect for relaxed rides with friends.
Cyclists can enjoy views of parks, piers, and city skylines along the way. The Greenway connects several green spaces and is easy to access from many Brooklyn neighborhoods.
This ride suits cyclists of all skill levels, making it a great fall activity. It lets groups explore Brooklyn while enjoying fresh air and scenic water views.
More details about the route and stops can be found on the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway ride map.
10) Jack-o’-lantern festival at Staten Island Zoo
The Staten Island Zoo hosts a Jack-o’-lantern festival each fall. Visitors can enjoy carved pumpkins and seasonal decorations throughout the zoo grounds.
The event often includes activities like pumpkin carving and family-friendly games. It offers a festive way to celebrate autumn outdoors.
11) Wine tasting in Long Island wine country
Long Island offers a variety of wineries perfect for wine tasting trips with friends. The region includes North Fork and South Fork, both known for scenic vineyards and quality wines.
Visitors can enjoy crisp rosé, full-bodied reds, and other local favorites. Many wineries provide tastings by the glass and tours of their vineyards.
Fall is a popular time to visit. The harvest season brings special events and a chance to see the winemaking process in action.
For more details on the best places to visit, see this guide to Long Island wine tours and tastings.
12) Hiking at Bear Mountain State Park
Bear Mountain State Park offers many trails with beautiful fall views. The Major Welch Trail leads to Perkins Memorial Tower, where hikers see the Hudson Highlands and sometimes the Manhattan skyline.
The park has trails for all skill levels. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk or a challenging hike surrounded by colorful autumn leaves.
Hiking here is a great way to spend time outdoors with friends. The fresh air and scenic paths make it a popular fall activity.
Learn more about the trails and features at Bear Mountain State Park.
13) Visit the Cloisters for fall foliage
The Cloisters offers a peaceful spot to see fall colors along the Hudson River. Its hilltop location provides clear views of trees dressed in autumn hues.
Visitors can enjoy both the gardens and medieval art inside. The mix of history and nature makes it a calm place to explore with friends.
Fall is a great time to take photos of the changing leaves here. The area is less crowded compared to other city parks, adding to the quiet experience.
Learn more about this unique spot and its fall views at the Cloisters from this Tripadvisor article.
