NYC Fall Bucket List: 15 Fun Activities You Can’t Miss
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1. Central Park Foliage Walk
A walk through Central Park in the fall is like stepping into a painting with vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Your eyes will light up as you wander along the pathways lined with the stunning colors of autumn leaves. Remember to bring your camera; this is a photographer’s paradise!
With so many trees showing off their autumn best, you’re in for a treat with every turn. Breathe in the crisp air and let the natural beauty of Central Park refresh your spirit during fall.
2. Pumpkin Picking at Decker Farms
Autumn in NYC isn’t complete without a trip to Decker Farms to pick your own pumpkins! Navigate through the patch to find your perfect pumpkin. This Staten Island gem dating back to the 1800s offers more than just pumpkins: take a hayride and enjoy the crisp fall air.
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3. Hot Chocolate at Serendipity 3
Warm up this fall with a cup of famous Frrrozen Hot Chocolate at Serendipity 3. This creamy, dreamy drink is a blend of 14 different cocoas! People have enjoyed this cozy treat since 1954. Sip this chocolatey goodness in a whimsical setting that has captured hearts for decades.
4. Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village
Every autumn, the streets of Greenwich Village come alive with a spectacle of costumes and floats! The Halloween Parade is a hit with visitors and locals alike.
Marching up Sixth Avenue, this parade is your chance to see some of the most creative outfits in the city. Get your costume ready and join the fun, you won’t want to miss this vibrant display of New York spirit!
5. Broadway Show Night
Watching a Broadway show is a must-do in New York City! Feel the buzz as you take your seat in a historic theater. The lights dim and the curtain rises, and suddenly, you’re transported into a story told through amazing acting, singing, and dancing.
With so many shows to pick from, there’s bound to be one that catches your eye; Wicked on Broadway is always a good option!
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6. Apple Picking at Masker Orchards
You’ll love the crisp autumn air at Masker Orchards, where you can pick fresh apples straight from the tree! This orchard lets you drive right up to your picking spot, making it easy to load up on the season’s best. Bring a picnic and enjoy a day surrounded by nature’s bounty.
7. Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Autumn transforms the Brooklyn Botanic Garden into a colorful canvas! Your eyes will catch the tall sweetgum tree’s deep crimson leaves. It’s a century-old tree that looks amazing against the fall sky.
Wander by the kettle pond and you’ll be amazed by the black tupelo too. Its leaves change from gold to glowing orange and then to a brilliant red. It’s a perfect spot for you to see fall’s natural fireworks show!
8. Rockefeller Center Ice Skating
Lace up your skates for a twirl on the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink! There’s no better way to enjoy a crisp fall day in the city than carving up the ice with friends and family. Surrounded by the buzz of New York City, this iconic rink offers a unique outdoor activity that starts in the fall.
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9. Visit the Cloisters
The Cloisters is a must-see spot. Set in Fort Tryon Park, it gives you stunning views of the Hudson. This part of the MET has an enchanting medieval European feel. You’ll admire its art, architecture, and gardens.
10. Chelsea Market Tasting Tour
Embarking on a tasting tour at Chelsea Market is a fantastic way to explore a culinary hotspot in the heart of New York City! As autumn leaves rustle outside, you can savor delicious bites like artisan cheeses or melt-in-your-mouth gourmet chocolates inside.
Every turn in this indoor maze of eateries offers something new for your palate. It’s a must-do for food lovers!
11. New York Botanical Garden’s Fall showcase
A trip to the New York Botanical Garden during fall should be on your list! Picture the colors of fall surrounding you as you walk through the gardens. You’ll see a variety of plants highlighted by the crisp autumn air.
There’s a special display that kicks off with an impressive Pumpkin Wall. Plus, you’re in for vibrant scenes with mums, apple crates, and heaps of pumpkins reflecting in the water. It’s a perfect spot for those fall photos!
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12. Hudson River Cruise
Taking a Hudson River cruise is like unlocking a hidden view of New York City! In autumn, you’ll find the riverbanks ablaze with vibrant fall colors. Cruises often last around two and a half hours, just enough time to relax and soak in the sights.
There are various cruise options available, including one aboard the Yacht Full Moon which sails under the George Washington Bridge for a special peek at the Palisades’ autumn splendor.
13. Cozy Up with a Book at The Strand
When autumn rolls in and the air gets a bit chilly, it’s the perfect time to find a cozy corner at The Strand bookstore. This famous spot is home to miles of books, so you can pick out the perfect read.
Grab a novel or maybe some exciting non-fiction and lose yourself in the pages. Remember to wrap up warm in your favorite sweater!
14. Night Stroll on the High Line
Taking a walk on the High Line at night is a magical experience! As the sun goes down, the pathway lights up, casting a lovely glow that makes the gardens and art installations come alive in a different way.
It’s quieter, too, so you can enjoy the views of the city’s twinkling lights without the hustle and bustle. Remember to wear comfy shoes, and don’t forget your camera – the nighttime skyline is a must-capture!
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15. Explore Governors Island
Fall in New York City is not complete without a trip to Governors Island! Imagine cruising around on a bike rental, leaves crunching under your tires, and a cool breeze in your face. You won’t need to pay extra to ferry your bike over, and once you’re there, pedal to your heart’s content!
The island also boasts The Hills, where a climb rewards you with a fantastic panorama of the Manhattan skyline. Catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty and breathe in the autumn air! It’s a perfect spot to snap some photos, so make sure your camera is ready.
