Autumn in New York City
Reading time: 3 min
Autumn in New York City
Reading time: 3 min
Autumn in New York City
Reading time: 3 min
9 Unexpected Ways to Make the Most of NYC This Fall
Autumn in New York City wraps the city in a palette of warm colors, cultural festivals, and cozy outdoor moments. The crisp air makes strolling, sightseeing, and exploring the city’s vibrant parks even more enjoyable. From Halloween parades to light festivals and fall markets, this season offers unforgettable experiences that make your city trip truly special.
Tip 1
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
A spectacular evening walk among thousands of glowing, hand-carved pumpkins at a historic estate just outside NYC. Each pumpkin is unique, and some are arranged into jaw-dropping sculptures like a spinning carousel or even the Brooklyn Bridge in pumpkin form. The setting—Van Cortlandt Manor, over 350 years old—adds to the magic.
Tip 2
Village Halloween Parade
On October 31st, a lively parade of costumes, giant puppets, and live music takes over Greenwich Village. Everyone is welcome to join—no sign-up needed, just come dressed up! What began in 1973 as a small neighborhood initiative has grown into the world’s largest Halloween celebration.
Tip 3
Luminosa: A Festival of Lights
Starting October 26th, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden lights up at night with towering silk and steel lanterns in the shape of animals and nature scenes. Designs change each year. Arrive early for the softest lighting and the most peaceful atmosphere—perfect for photos and quiet wonder.
Tip 4
Grand Bazaar
This artisan market on the Upper West Side features vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, design items, and seasonal treats like hot cider and pumpkin muffins. Best of all? 100% of the profits support local schools—shop with purpose and bring home something truly unique.
Tip 5
Fall Foliage Cruise on the Hudson
Cruise up the Hudson River and admire Manhattan and the Palisades draped in fall colors. Many tours feature live jazz, brunch, or even storytelling about the historic mansions along the shoreline—adding a rich cultural layer to this scenic experience.
Tip 6
New York Film Festival
Held in and around Lincoln Center, this world-renowned festival showcases premieres, documentaries, and indie gems. Beyond the theatres, enjoy free filmmaker talks and outdoor screenings. Feeling spontaneous? Join the standby line—last-minute tickets are often still available!
Tip 7
Rooftop Cinema Club
Watch films under the stars on a Midtown rooftop with cozy fleece blankets and wireless headphones. Expect a mix of classics, cult favorites, and indie surprises. Arrive before sunset for panoramic skyline views—pure movie magic.
Tip 8
Bronx Zoo: Boo at the Zoo & Harvest Festival
On October weekends, the Bronx Zoo bursts to life with pumpkin carving, Halloween parades, and seasonal shows. Animal exhibits get a festive makeover, and on select days, visitors can carve and decorate their own pumpkins on-site.
Tip 9
Biking & Walking the High Line & Hudson
The High Line is a scenic elevated park blooming with fall flowers, art installations, and views over Chelsea and Hudson Yards. Combine it with a bike ride along the Hudson River Greenway to Riverside Park. Don’t forget to stop at Chelsea Market for a warm apple crumble or pumpkin chai—it’s the perfect autumn treat.
Recommended for you
New York Citytrip
Fall Break
New York Citytrip
Christmas holidays
9 Surprising Autumn Tips in New York City
The Christmas season in New York is a magical time when the city transforms into a true winter wonderland.
10 Smart NYC Hacks for Students
Big city, small budget? No problem. NYC is your playground, even on a student wallet!
A tailor-made quote?
Wish a detailed tailor-made quote? We gladly assist you with your travel plans, thus prepare your ideal tailor-made trip and calculate a detailed price proposal in no time. No hidden costs and entirely to your liking.
Visit our travel shops
Need more info, assistance to tailor your trip or the latest tips by our experienced Travel Designers? Pop in at one of our travel shops or make an appointment now. We will be delighted to set aside time for your travel plans.
Over 100 Travel Designers
all over Belgium are eager to assist you
Year after year Connections sends its Travel Designers to all corners of the world in order to be able to advise you even better when mapping out your trip.
No destination is too foreign or far. Find out who they are here and feel free to contact them!
Why choose Connections?
Because we are travellers, just like you. Always looking for exciting experiences, fascinating encounters and new horizons. Because we are 100% Belgian and can assist you in your own language. Because we make it our personal mission to lift your travels beyond your wildest imagination. Because life is more intense when you travel, really travel!
More about ConnectionsThe twinkle in the eye
Do not expect conformity from us. We are always looking for those extra ingredients that make your trip truly special. We swear by intense experiences.
Over 100 Travel designers around the country
Meet the Connections crew in our Travel Shops located all over Belgium. All of our Travel Designers are looking forward to meeting you and welcome you with open arms.
+35 Years on the road
We've been paving our way for a while. Travelling with Connections means choosing 'peace of mind'. Everything perfectly arranged, excellent service, certainty and reliability.
Always by your side
We're here whenever you need us! Available via our website, our travel shops, our customer service center and via our mobile travel agents.