Fall Foliage in the City: Exploring the Best Views and Activities in NYC

As the heat of summer is blown away by the chillier breezes of autumn, New York City becomes a seasonal wonderland. Underneath a canopy of red, orange, and gold, the city's parks, streets, institutions, and more take on a new charm as they embrace the fall season. Continue reading to learn more about some of the best activities to do in the fall in the Big Apple, which will allow you to savor the rich colors, flavors, and experiences that make autumn in New York City truly enchanting.

Central Park

There's no better place to start your autumn exploration of New York City than Central Park, its verdant heart. The park’s 843 acres are home to winding paths, lakes, bucolic fields, and even a recreation of upstate New York wilderness — providing visitors the perfect place to watch trees don their vibrant fall attire. The Central Park Conservancy offers fall foliage guides, which share fascinating insights into the park's diverse tree species and where you can best see their stunning transformations.

The High Line

Part-public garden, part-modern architectural experiment, this elevated urban oasis is one of the most beautiful autumn escapes in New York City. Winding along the Hudson River through Hudson Yards and Chelsea, the High Line is a unique highlight of the city. Once a railway line, the High Line is now a 1.45-mile park with bustling native gardens, art installations by prominent locals, and sweeping views of the city and the river. It’s an unparalleled location from which to enjoy the autumn magnificence of New York City. 

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

For a more curated garden experience, head to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. This 52-acre institution is home to more than 14,000 types of plants, housed in specialty gardens, exhibits, and structures. Hailing from across the world, there are plants in bloom all year round. Some of the most gorgeous gardens to visit in the fall include the Japanese Garden, with its iconic cherry trees and koi-filled ponds, and the Cranford Rose Garden, where late-blooming roses complement the fall foliage.

Staten Island Ferry

Looking for a free way to enjoy the views of the city from the water? Hop on the Staten Island Ferry. As cool autumn breezes buffet you and the boat on this half-hour journey, you’ll be able to bask in stunning views of the city skyline framed by fall’s fiery trees. With service every thirty minutes (or less), from Whitehall Ferry Terminal in Manhattan to Staten Island (or vice versa), this free ride offers a delightful way to appreciate the fall beauty of Manhattan, especially at sunset.

The Met Cloisters

Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Manhattan by visiting The Met Cloisters in Fort Tryon Park. This offshoot of the Metropolitan Museum of Art focuses on medieval art and architecture, which is reflected by its beautifully designed medieval gardens and monastic ambiance. Both the grounds and the museum itself are unique complements to the fall scenery that surrounds them, making for educational and spiritual nourishment. 

Queens County Farm Museum

You can get even further from downtown with this next autumn activity, the quintessentially fall pumpkin picking. The Queens County Farm Museum, a historic location that can boast of being the city’s largest remaining undisturbed farmland, offers pumpkin picking and a charming corn maze throughout the season—a perfect family-friendly outing. There’s also a farmer’s market, a county fair, a Halloween celebration, and much more. This farm will truly make you feel like you’ve headed out into the countryside, despite the convenience of still being in New York City.

Wave Hill

Nestled in the Bronx, the picturesque Wave Hill estate is a hidden gem boasting stunning gardens that overlook the Hudson River. The public gardens, which date back to the 19th century, become a riot of colors in the fall. The crisp air, makes it an ideal spot for a peaceful day of reflection and appreciation of nature, set against two elegant mansions and a bucolic landscape. 

Explore Governors Island

Located in the heart of New York City harbor, Governors Island remains a popular spot even as summer wanes. Just a short ferry ride away from downtown Manhattan, this historic island only just became open to visitors year-round. Here, you can explore tree-lined paths, enjoy scenic picnics, and admire panoramic views of lower Manhattan draped in the changing colors of fall; you can also learn more about the island’s long history, going all the way back to when it was home to the Native American Lenape people. 

Chelsea Market

As the weather cools down, you can still warm up your taste buds with seasonal treats. Chelsea Market is a vibrant food hall and marketplace that is home to a variety of artisanal food vendors. From freshly baked bread and doughnuts to oysters, tacos, and more, Chelsea Market is a foodie’s heaven. It’s a must-visit for a meal or two, no matter whether it’s fall or not. 

New York City in the fall is a time when the city's hustle and bustle harmonizes with the serene beauty of nature. Book your autumn getaway at The Wallace today!