Fall Foliage Walks on the Upper West Side
When the first crisp breeze of October sweeps through the city, the Upper West Side transforms into one of Manhattan’s most picturesque fall destinations. Tree-lined avenues turn golden, the air fills with the scent of roasted nuts and coffee, and every park path becomes a photo opportunity.
Whether you’re strolling beneath fiery maples or gazing across the Hudson at sunset, the Upper West Side is the perfect starting point for anyone chasing fall foliage in New York. Here’s your guide to the most scenic fall foliage walks near the Upper West Side, each just a short walk or ride away from your hotel.
Central Park – The Crown Jewel of Fall Foliage in New York
No autumn visit to the Upper West Side is complete without a stroll through Central Park, one of the world’s most famous places to experience fall foliage in New York. From The Wallace Hotel, you’re just a 5-minute walk to the park’s western edge, near 79th Street, a perfect entry point for a leaf-filled wander.
In October and November, Central Park’s 843 acres burst into color. Fiery red maples, golden elms, and bronze oaks create a kaleidoscope of hues. Start at the Lake and wander across Bow Bridge for breathtaking reflections of the autumn canopy shimmering on the water.
From there, head south to The Mall and Literary Walk, where towering American elms form a golden archway that feels like stepping into a painting. Bring your camera; this is where you’ll capture those quintessential shots of fall foliage in Central Park that define the season.
Riverside Park – A Riverside Canopy of Color
Just a 7-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel, Riverside Park offers one of the most peaceful and scenic fall walks in Manhattan. Stretching from 72nd Street to 158th Street along the Hudson River, this park feels like a leafy retreat tucked right into the heart of the city.
In autumn, the tree-lined paths explode with shades of amber and scarlet. The park’s gently curving pathways and sloping lawns make it ideal for a leisurely afternoon stroll or morning jog. As you walk, you’ll notice how the golden light reflects off the Hudson, especially beautiful during the late afternoon.
Hudson River Greenway – Sunset Walks with Golden Views
For a peaceful riverside escape, the Hudson River Greenway is just a 10-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel. Stretching along Manhattan’s western edge, this pathway runs parallel to Riverside Park but hugs the water even closer, offering sweeping views of the Hudson River and New Jersey’s Palisades.
In the fall, the combination of golden trees and sparkling sunsets makes this one of the most romantic spots on the Upper West Side. The light at dusk reflects off the water, bathing the entire parkway in warm tones of orange and pink, making for a perfect fall vista.
Morningside Park – Hidden Beauty Near Columbia University
If you’re up for a slightly longer walk or a short subway ride, Morningside Park near Columbia University offers a dramatic and often-overlooked perspective on fall foliage in New York.
This narrow, steeply terraced park is famous for its rugged rock formations, waterfalls, and tall trees that explode with color in autumn. The contrast between the park’s cliffs and the brilliant reds and yellows of its trees makes it one of Manhattan’s most photogenic hidden gems.
Start your walk near Morningside Avenue and 116th Street, then wind your way down to the pond at the base of the park. If you continue east, you’ll find yourself near the Columbia University campus, where tree-lined walkways and ivy-covered buildings add even more fall charm.
NYC Fall Foliage Cruises – A River View of Autumn Splendor
While walking in the parks offers incredible views, sometimes the best perspective is from the water. Luckily, several NYC Fall Foliage Cruises depart within close range of the Upper West Side, about a 10- to 15-minute drive from The Wallace Hotel.
These cruises sail north up the Hudson River, offering panoramic views of the Palisades’ dramatic cliffs covered in brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. You’ll pass under the George Washington Bridge and watch as Manhattan’s skyline fades into rolling hills bursting with color.
Options include Circle Line’s Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise, which runs on weekends through November, complete with Oktoberfest-style food and drinks onboard. For a more intimate experience, check out smaller sightseeing or brunch cruises, like those offered by Seastreak.
Where Urban Energy Meets Autumn Serenity
The Upper West Side offers the perfect balance between urban vibrancy and natural beauty. In autumn, its parks, riverside trails, and leafy streets become a living mosaic of color. From the timeless charm of Central Park to the quiet grace of Riverside and Morningside, every path tells its own seasonal story.
Staying at The Wallace Hotel places you right in the middle of it all, just steps from Central Park and within easy reach of every one of these fall destinations. After a day of exploring, return to the hotel’s elegant comfort to warm up with a drink and reflect on your adventures among the trees.
Book your stay today to enjoy the splendor of fall in NYC.