Fall in NYC: Top Things to Do in Autumn in New York

Have you ever walked through autumn in New York City? The air is crisp, and the leaves in Central Park fall like nature’s own art.

This guide shows you the best NYC fall events. It’s a mix of old traditions and new fun that makes New York special in autumn.

There’s so much to do, from the historic Queens County Farm Museum to the Bronx Zoo’s Pumpkin Nights. See the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in Hudson Valley or the New York Botanical Garden’s Tim Burton-inspired lights.

Your fall in New York could include hand-carved pumpkins in the Bronx or the Brooklyn Book Festival. Or maybe you’ll join the Feast of San Gennaro or explore the city’s history.

New York City shows its magic in the fall to those who look!

Discover the Rustic Charm of the Queens County Farm Museum

Fall in New York City is more than just the changing leaves and cooler air. It’s a time filled with harvest festivals and unique rural experiences. The Queens County Farm Museum is a top spot for things to do in NYC in fall.

Here, you can explore agricultural history and enjoy modern harvest celebrations, including a popular pumpkin picking NYC event.

The Queens County Farm Museum is the oldest farmed land in New York City, dating back to 1697. Spanning 47 acres, it offers a peaceful escape. You can interact with animals, ride hay wagons, and explore the Amazing Maize Maze—a true symbol of the harvest season in NYC.

October is special at the farm, with pumpkin month running from September 30 to October 31. Admission to all activities is free. It’s a great time to pick the perfect pumpkin, a favorite among families and visitors.

Event	Date	Time
Pumpkin Picking at the Farm	Weekends, Oct 1 – Oct 31	10 AM – 5 PM
Hayride Adventures	Daily, Oct 1 – Oct 31	11 AM – 4 PM
The Amazing Maize Maze	Weekends, Oct 1 – Oct 31	11 AM – 4:30 PM

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, visit the Queens County Farm Museum. Here, you can interact with farm animals, pick a pumpkin, or navigate a corn maze.

It’s a place where you can find joy in the simple things. It’s a mix of fun, learning, and history, perfect for families.

Embrace the Harvest Season with Apple Picking Near NYC

As the leaves change and the air gets cooler, autumn in New York City invites you to explore.

Step away from the city’s noise into the peaceful orchards near NYC. There, you can enjoy apple picking, fresh air, and beautiful views of fall foliage.

Whether you love apples or are new to them, NYC’s orchards have something for everyone. You can find everything from tart Granny Smith to sweet Honeycrisp apples.

Apple Ridge Orchards, for example, offers over 11 apple varieties, plus an observation hive and honeybees. It’s more than just apple picking in NYC.

Taste the Season: Apple Varieties and Cider Doughnuts

At Apple Dave’s Orchard, you can taste different apples like Cortland, Rome Beauty, and Jonamac. Apple picking is even better with warm, sugary cider doughnuts. These treats bring you closer to the season’s joys.

Family Fun: Corn Mazes and Petting Zoos at Local Farms

Many farms, like Kelder’s Farm, become family-friendly spots in the fall. They have corn mazes, petting zoos, hayrides, and mini-golf. Both kids and adults love these activities, making apple picking a special family tradition in NYC.

Orchard/Farm	Size	Activities Available	Number of Apple Varieties
Greig Farm	300 acres	Apple Picking, Hayrides	Multiple
Dr. Davies Farm	Not specified	Apple Picking, Pumpkin Picking	Over 20
Barton Orchards	175 acres	Apple Picking, Petting Zoo, Pumpkin Patch	Several
Fishkill Farms	270 acres	Apple Picking, Organic Produce	Various

Whether you want to pick apples, explore a corn maze, or have a picnic, NYC’s orchards are perfect. So, put on your boots and a cozy sweater. Get ready for a wonderful day of autumn fun in the countryside, just outside the city.

Leaf Peeping Hot Spots in New York City

New York City is a treasure trove of color in the fall. You can see the change of seasons in the city’s parks. Central Park and other parks show off warm colors of red, orange, and yellow.

Central Park is a must-see for its beautiful trees. American elms and sycamores light up the park with their colors. The North Woods and The Ravine offer magical views. But, there are many other parks to explore for a unique experience.

Park Name	Tree Varieties	Notable Features
Inwood Hill Park	Red Oaks, Tulip trees	Manhattan’s only natural forest
Prospect Park	Elms, Black Cherries, Sassafras	Vibrant colors by late October
Alley Pond Park	Tulip Poplar, White Oak	Home to NYC’s oldest tree, the Alley Pond Giant
Forest Park	Oaks	Features the largest continuous oak forest in Queens
Fort Tryon Park	Various	Gorgeous view of the Hudson River Palisades

Walking in these parks is a peaceful escape from the city. Each park has its own special fall colors. You can see the Alley Pond Giant’s history and Fort Tryon Park’s views.

Explore these parks to enjoy the season. Whether you’re walking or taking photos, the scenery is perfect. Let the colors of fall brighten your days.

NYC Fall Treats: Indulging in Apple Cider Donuts

As the leaves turn colors, nothing beats the taste of fall NYC flavors. Apple cider donuts are a must-try, capturing the essence of autumn in New York City. You can find them at NYC greenmarkets and famous doughnut shops.

NYC fall treats turn simple ingredients into amazing desserts. Doughnuttery and Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop make apple cider donuts with amazing spices and glazes. They truly represent Fall in NYC.

Farmers Markets: A Hub for Autumn Flavors

Autumn brings back the lively NYC farmers markets. People go there for fresh apples and apple cider. These markets are full of treasures for those who love autumn in New York City. Don’t miss the apple cider donuts, made from local apples and bakers.

Sweets and Ciders: A Culinary Tour of NYC’s Fall Offerings

The hunt for classic NYC fall treats takes you to places like The Doughnut Project and Dough in NYC. They work with local producers to make special fall treats. Each doughnut is a taste of New York’s fall harvest.

The annual Harvest Fest in Union Square is a highlight. It’s a mix of food, art, and culture. Apple cider donuts are just the start, with many artisanal ciders and apple treats to try.

Visiting NYC farmers markets and events like the Harvest Fest connects you with the season. It’s a chance to meet locals and find new favorites in autumn in New York City.

Things to Do in NYC in Fall: The Vibrant Morningside Lights

As the leaves change and the air gets crisp, Morningside Lights NYC comes alive. It’s a top pick for those wanting to enjoy things to do in NYC in fall. The event lights up the night with creativity and community spirit.

Picture a parade where everyone carries a glowing art piece through Morningside Park to Columbia University. These aren’t just any lanterns; they’re detailed artworks showing New York’s artistic journey.

This year, it’s all about “In Retrospect: 100 Years of New York Art,” blending history with today’s creativity.

At Morningside Lights, everyone gets involved. Before the parade, which starts just after dusk on Saturday, September 30, people build lanterns at workshops at Miller Theatre, Columbia.

Led by Alex Kahn and Sophia Michahelles, all ages and skills come together to create stunning lanterns that light up nyc autumn.

Event Component	Detail
Lantern Workshops	September 14-20 at Miller Theatre, Columbia University
Procession Date	September 30, after dusk
Route	From Morningside Park to Columbia University
Theme	In Retrospect: 100 Years of New York Art
Event Directors	Alex Kahn and Sophia Michahelles
Event Producers	Columbia University’s Arts Initiative and Miller Theatre

This event celebrates nyc autumn and the community’s role in the arts. It’s perfect for art fans, community members, or anyone looking for special NYC fall events.

Morningside Lights offers a unique blend of art, history, and community in the heart of New York City.

Italian Festivity: The Feast of San Gennaro in Little Italy

Join the vibrant culture and traditions of Italian American heritage at the Feast of San Gennaro. It’s a top nyc fall festival in Little Italy NYC. This event honors Naples’ patron saint and showcases Italian festivity with 11 days of food, fun, and culture.

Little Italy turns into a grand heritage showcase with authentic Italian food and live performances. Here’s what awaits you at this eagerly awaited festival:

Savor Traditional Italian-American Fare

Enjoy classic Italian dishes on Mulberry Street. Try sausage-and-pepper sandwiches at Lucy’s Palace or creamy cannolis from Caffé Palermo. The festival also features zeppole and meatball eating contests, adding excitement to the food.

Live Music and Cultural Celebrations in the Heart of Manhattan

The festival is filled with live music and delicious smells. This year, expect performances by Eric DeLauro and Jenna Esposito. It’s a mix of great food and music, making it a highlight of NYC’s fall festivals.

Date	Event	Time
September 14	Grand Procession Parade	2:00 PM
September 19	Solemn High Mass	6:00 PM
September 22	Jenna Esposito Performance	6:00 PM

Visit for the food, music, or the festive vibe. The Feast of San Gennaro offers a unique taste of Italian-American culture in Manhattan’s Little Italy. It’s a chance to make unforgettable memories.

The Mesmerizing Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze Experience

As autumn falls on New York, the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze shines as a top autumn activity in NYC.

It’s been lighting up Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson and Old Bethpage Village Restoration for 20 years. It turns these historic places into a glowing wonderland, attracting visitors from everywhere.

If you love NYC fall foliage and creative displays, this event is a must-see.

This year, the Blaze celebrates its 20th anniversary with over 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins. They light up dark woods and historic buildings, creating stunning displays.

You’ll see life-sized dinosaurs, a giant Kraken, a 24-foot spider web, and a Pumpkin Planetarium. It’s a top spot for pumpkin picking NYC fans and fall enthusiasts.

• New this year is the Gourd & Goblet Tavern, a rustic speakeasy with unique drinks and food.
• The massive Kraken installation is a new highlight, towering over the Croton River.
• The pumpkin birthday cake display marks the Blaze’s 20th year, letting visitors join the celebration.

Tickets start at just $20, with discounts during certain times. The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze is a magical autumn escape. It’s one of the best things to do in NYC in autumn. Here’s a quick look at ticket prices and availability:

Location	Adult Tickets	Children Tickets	Special Pricing
Van Cortlandt Manor	Starts at $20	Free for children under 2	$20 on weekdays after 8 pm
Old Bethpage Village	$39	$10 (aged 3-17)	N/A

Wrap up warmly for the roughly 45-minute walk through this autumn wonderland. It’s very popular, so book early to not miss out on this captivating fall experience in New York.

Tim Burton’s World: The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail

Looking for a spooky way to enjoy NYC fall events? The New York Botanical Garden has you covered.

From September 27 to November 30, on select nights, it turns into a aesthetic New York City wonderland inspired by Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” This immersive light trail covers over 8,300 square feet, making it a must-see for your autumn.

The exhibit at the New York Botanical Garden brings Tim Burton’s world to life. You’ll find interactive video projections and LED lighting that make his characters come alive.

The space is filled with 3D-printed sculptures, blending Halloween and Christmas in a beautiful setting. Tickets start at $49 for adults and $39 for kids, offering a unique blend of art and fun.

But there’s more to the fall festivities at NYBG. Fall-O-Ween starts on September 28 and goes until October 27. It offers daytime fun from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., including the ‘Wonderland’ exhibition.

With displays inspired by Alice in Wonderland covering 250 acres, your autumn will be filled with wonder. Let Tim Burton’s world and New York’s beauty create lasting memories for you this fall.