Fall in New York is a vibrant time to be in the city. The days are bright and the air is crisp and clear. The weather can surprise you, with temperatures ranging between 5-25–degrees between September and November. It’s the best time to get involved in fun festivities, wander the many street fairs and catch a memorable concert. And of course, what better time is there to hop aboard an open-top bus tour.
If you plan to be in New York in fall, we’ve rounded up our top picks of things to do:
Trick or treat
A highlight of New York in fall is Halloween, and all the fun and festivities that go with it. The US celebrate this holiday in style, with certainly more treats than tricks on offer. The city hosts several fetes and fairs, with pumpkins, dressing up and lots of tasty treats to try, like toffee apple and spiced doughnuts. Head to the Harvest Fest and Pumpkin Patch in the Botanical Garden, and enjoy live music, nature walks and fancy crafts like pickling. Then witness the thousands of artistically carved pumpkins glowing along the riverside at The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze. Finally, gather round in Central Park and listen to ghost stories at the Halloween Parade and Pumpkin Flotilla.
Take to the streets
What better way to enjoy a sunny day in fall in New York than visiting one of the many NYC street fairs. There’s live music, sensational eats and shopping to be had. Hunt for the finest vintage finds, with many of the city’s popular stores setting up a stall. Sample the tasty fare from some of the best restaurants in NYC. Then rock out to an outdoor concert. What a great day. Some of our favourites to note are the PopUp New York Street Fairs which run up until the end of October, featuring up-and-coming restaurants, designers and musicians. And Smorgasburg, where the only criteria to attend is to come hungry to enjoy the 75 to 100 incredible food vendors.
Catch a concert
Fall in New York is the season to catch one of the many concerts in the city. The line-up is impressive and the schedule is jam-packed. From hip-hop to indie, and something for the heavy hitters too. If you happen to be in town in October, don’t miss Octfest, where bands and brew go hand in hand. Hosted on Governors Island, it’s two full days of over 20 acts and more than 90 different beers to try. Or for a more family friendly vibe, there’s Roots Picnic NYC where you can listen to trending hip-hop, soulful funk and indie bands.
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to Smorgasburg Prospect Park
The Colour of Fall
Fall in New York is one of the most beautiful times to visit. And the best places to appreciate this vibrant season is away from the hustle and bustle. Take a stroll through Central Park and notice how this oasis in the city has transformed into a colourful wonderland. Wander Prospect Park and take in the orange, yellow and brown palette. Meander along the river and breath in the crisp fall air. It’s a moment you shouldn’t miss when visiting New York in fall.
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to Central Park
So there you have our list of must-do activities during fall in New York. A time when summer starts to fade and the city gears up for lots of festive fun. And on a sunny day, you can grab a top-deck seat on a Big Bus tour, and we’ll take you to see the best sights and attractions New York is famous for. For more inspiration on how to fill the rest of your time in the City That Never Sleeps, check out our guide to the Top 10 Things to do in New York.
