Find your most stylish plaid top and assume a pumpkin spice state of mind: we’ve rounded up the best things to do in fall, NYC, all in one convenient place! Are you ready for the best season of the year?
From annual favorites to new debuts and everything in between, our list of activities are more than worthy of your autumnal bucket list. Our advice? Fuel up on apple cider donuts and cocoa as you tackle each item on our roundup.
NYC, we’ll meet you at the pumpkin patch.
Hit up fall festivals and street fairs
Starting with one of our favorites, the Sleepy Hollow Fair on September 21st, New York hosts ample fall festivals and fairs throughout September and October.
Grab some seasonal bites (candy apples, anyone?), shop local goods, and enjoy the temperature dip and the warm hues appearing on leaves.
Head to the orchards and fields for apple picking and pumpkin picking
Let’s be honest: no autumn is complete without a crisp McIntosh and a few gourds here and there.
If you’re keen on homemade apple pie and carving jack o’ lanterns, explore some of our favorite locations for apple picking and pumpkin picking in and and around NYC.
Wander through a corn maze
Test your navigation skills this fall by making your way out of the best corn mazes in the area.
This year, the Queens County Farm Museum will celebrate the return of its maze with carnival rides, scavenger hunts, face painting for the littles, and a two-night-only moonlit maze tour.
Enjoy a Candlelight concert
A feast for the ears and eyes, Candlelight concerts deliver in spades.
String musicians gather in some of NYC’s most stunning locations — including the Gothic Revival St. Ann’s Church in Brooklyn Heights — to play classical renditions of your favorite artists. Get your tickets online.
Check out a Broadway Sings concert
From Taylor Swift to ABBA, the Great White Way’s biggest stars put a show tune spin on songs from today’s most popular artists.
Have a look at the Broadway Sings series and see where your earbuds take you!
Get your Halloween treats at NYC’s oldest candy shop
Economy Candy is a Lower East Side mainstay that paved the way for the sweet shops we see on our TikTok feeds today.
Since 1937, the Rivington St biz has been serving sweets galore. Currently, the family-owned operation offers 2,500 different types of confections from all around the world — Europe, Asia, Australia — and specializes in nostalgic, hard-to-find pieces that you likely haven’t seen since you were a kiddo.
📍 108 Rivington St (Morris “Moishe” Cohen Way)
Walk through this jack o’lantern extravaganza returning to New York
If you love carving pumpkins and all things Halloween, you’ll love the spectacular Jack O’Lantern Blaze.
The event takes place in the Hudson Valley and the season runs from September 12th to November 16th. It features over 7,000 hand-carved, illuminated pumpkins with various designs, creating glowing sculptures. There are plenty of Immersive Halloween experiences, treats, and more.
Read how to get your tickets here.
Test your bravery at Blood Manor
Think you can handle 10,000 square feet of scares?
From themed rooms to narrow hallways and surprises at every turn – including some eerie characters — Blood Manor is a nightmare worth perusing if you’re a Halloween enthusiast. Don’t be disappointed if you let out a few screams — we expect it.
🗓️ From October 3rd
“What’s this?” The Magical Nightmare Before Christmas light trail returns to NYBG
The New York Botanical Garden is taking a cue from Tim Burton’s book once again and lighting up its bucolic trails in honor of the spooky sensation, Nightmare Before Christmas. And honestly, who’s more appropriate for a fall celebration than the Pumpkin King, Jack Skellington? No one.
Wander through 8,300 square feet of Jack’s world via tunnels, light projections, and the Oogie Boogie lair. If we didn’t know any better, we’d say there’s magic in the air!
🗓️ September 25th to November 30th
Hop aboard a creepy trolly tour
Grab a ticket and hop aboard Madame Morbid’s Trolley for a trip into Brooklyn like you’ve never experienced before.
The vintage bus takes straphangers back in time as it passes Kings County hotspots with dark history you definitely didn’t learn about in school — ideal for Halloween and history buffs alike.
Take a spooky ride along the Haunted History Trail
If you fancy a fall getaway with stunning scenery and the occasional paranormal encounter, the Haunted History Trail of New York State is filled to the brim with spine-tingling adventures.
A map that extends throughout the state pinpoints paranormal hotspots that are ready for visitors to make connections with the unknown. Hotels, mom and pop shops, museums, restaurants, asylums, and yes, even an amusement park made the cut.
Learn more about the tour stops here.
Get your spooky necessities at Spirit Halloween
‘Tis the season for a peruse around Spirit Halloween for the ultimate costume.
Whether you’re leaning towards the spooky route or would prefer to keep your outfit scare-free, the Halloween megastore has what you’re looking for — and additional locations are popping up all over the city.
Attend the city’s best Halloween events
The spookiest time of the year is upon us, and NYC is celebrating to the fullest: haunted houses, parades, and but of course, the Tompkins Square Park Halloween Dog Parade.
See beautiful fall foliage in NYC’s communal backyard
The Central Park Fall Foliage map is officially live, keeping a real-time account of the 18,000 trees across its 843 acres and when they will turn the perfect shades of red, orange, and gold.
Review the map and plan your afternoon outing accordingly.
Grab a new read from NYC’s debut horror bookshop
The NYC literary scene is taking a turn for the spooky, just in time for Halloween. The Twisted Spine will open its brick and mortar outpost in Williamsburg this fall, marking the city’s first indie bookshop dedicated to dark literature.
Not only will the shelves stock eerie tales, but the creepy factor will be in full effect with dark academia decor, a backyard graveyard, and exciting horror-themed events and signings on the shop’s calendar. Make sure to stop by espresso bar — coffee and cocktails included — with your new read.
The opening date is September 6th, and we’ll be sure to see you horror aficionados there.
📍 306 Grand Street, Brooklyn
Follow The House of SpeakEasy Bookmobile
What’s better than a cozy evening in with a cup of tea and a book? Nada.
Grab your new read from the House of SpeakEasy Bookmobile, which hands out free books across the city. Check the schedule!
Catch a magic show in Brooklyn
For Harry Houdini-inspired moves, look no further than the Hanley Close-Up Magic Parlour, where Greg Dubin’s “Magic at the Clock Shop” takes place.
Sip cocktails while Dubin performs his best sleight of hand moves that will leave you scratching your head. Just don’t be surprised if you don’t find the spot as you’re walking down Court Street: it’s disguised as Precision Clock & Watch repair shop.
📍 449 Court St, Brooklyn
See the most beautiful waterfalls and more at this digital art experience
Step into a world of imagination at Arte Museum New York this October. Created by South Korea’s d’strict, which happens to be the same team behind the viral 3D wave in Seoul from a few years ago, this peaceful escape feels worlds away from the busy streets of NYC. Surround yourself with the most beautiful glowing waterfalls, magical creatures, and the dreamiest digital landscapes. Whether you’re sipping tea as the table comes alive beneath you or bringing a dragon to life before your eyes, this art experience is definitely not one to miss out on this month. Get your tickets!
📍 61 Chelsea Piers, New York, 10011
Snag a free book at BFPL
Brookfield Place’s Literary Series is continuing into the cold weather months, ushering in spooky season with Book Drop: Shrills and Thrills on October 7th at 10am.
With an RSVP, attendees can snag free scary reads — true crime, thrillers, and beyond — at Hudson Eats. Then, on October 21st at 6pm, join literary-minded folks for a q&a on The Housemaid by Freida McFadden.
To learn more about each event and RSVP, visit the Brookfield Place website.
Grab a cup of tea
Through October 26th, The Peninsula New York and New York Botanical Garden have joined forces for the Van Gogh Floral Afternoon Tea, in honor of NYBG’s “Van Gogh’s Flowers.”
Guests can enjoy scones served with a whimsical chocolate paintbrush, edible flower creations, sunflower seed foie gras on brioche, and more delectable items.
Book the experience before it comes to a close on October 26th.
Sharpen your career skills at AWNewYork 2025
Ready to get those creative juices flowing?
October is kicking off on an innovative note with AWNewYork 2025, a multi-day conference filled to the brim with talks, workshops, activations, and amazing events that will make work feel more like play.
Considered the world’s premiere marketing event, Advertising Week is a four-day happening with content sessions, talks, special events, and beyond. Over 4,000 companies will be in attendance this year. Book your spot online.
Join a soccer league via NYC Footy
Let’s be honest: you look forward to those gym outings as much as a root canal, so why not add a fun element back into your fitness regimen?
NYC Footy leagues give a dose of deja vu: after-school soccer, but for those who haven’t been in the classroom in a hot sec. Why not try snagging a spot on a league — they’re competitive, but not too competitive. Plus, it’s a great way to meet people in your neighborhood and learn more about your nabe.
See what’s available and sign up before the first week in October.
Grab your cowboy boots for NYC’s biggest hoedown
Yeehaw! Bryant Park is embracing the best of the west: two-step, square dancing, lawn games, BBQ, and more at Midtown’s biggest hoedown.
🗓️ September 25th 6-9pm
Step inside NYC’s secret pinball museum
For gaming that dates as far back as the late 1800s, look no further! Disguised within the back room of Seaborne bar, the Red Hook Pinball Museum is home to old-school pinball machines that you’ll definitely appreciate.
📍 499 Van Brunt St # 4B
Catch Beetlejuice on Broadway…
The ‘Juice is loose, folks.
Returning to NYC for a third time, Beetlejuice The Musical will give theater-goers a taste of Tim Burton’s quirky, spooky creativity as his deceased protagonist vies for Lydia Deetz’s hand in marriage to avoid being stuck in the Afterlife.
The show will get underway at Palace Theatre on October 8th, and tickets are available for pre-order online. Don’t forget to explore even more Broadway shows this season!
📍 160 W 47th St
…or a new production
Midtown marquees will set the Great White Way aglow with names of the new Broadway shows arriving in NYC this fall: Chess with. Lea Michele, Waiting for Godot with Keanu Reeves, to name just a few.
Have a look at the performances we’re most looking forward to, and scope out tickets for current musicals and plays in New York.
Get tickets to upcoming concerts
There are constant entertainment options in NYC, especially when it comes to music.
Have a look at our guide to the city’s best concerts, from Dua Lipa and Chappell Roan to Tyler Childers and Renée Rapp.
See The Weeknd and Shakira headline Global Citizen’s Festival
There’s nothing quite like a free festival — especially one that gives back.
The annual Global Citizens Festival returns to Central Park on Saturday, September 27th with an impressive lineup: Shakira and The Weeknd as the headliners, plus Tyla, Ayra Starr, and Mariah the Scientist. New Yorkers get a day of great music and fun vibes, but at the root of it all, the premise of the gathering is to raise awareness to end poverty, tackle climate change, and support sustainable development.
In early September, the team behind the festival revealed that Bill Nye, Adam Lambert, Danai Gurira, and Liza Koshy will cohost and Kristen Bell, Tony Goldwyn, Laurie Hernandez, Nate Burleson, and Vladimir Duthiers will speak.
Through the Global Citizen website or app, New Yorkers can complete simple advocacy tasks like signing petitions, sharing messages, or volunteering with local organizations.
🗓️ September 27th
Catch the first-ever We Belong Here EDM festival in Brooklyn
Festival season is still in swing once the temperatures cool down, and We Belong Here is proof. The newly-founded cross-country event brings the dance vibes to gorgeous locales and invites attendees to shake, and shimmy ’til their hearts’ content.
This year, it’s expanding the fun from Wollman Rink and heading downtown. A new Greenpoint iteration of the festival will debut this October, and feature the following artists:
- Carl Cox
- Elderbrook and Gordo
- Sidepiece
- Prospa, Tobiahs
- MGMT
Stay tuned for the Central Park lineup and learn more about the festival on its website.
🗓️ October 3rd to 5th (Brooklyn), October 10th to 12th (Central Park’s Wollman Rink)
Get tickets to new movies in theaters
The cold weather is kicking in, so might as well get cozy at the movies. Here are a few of the upcoming releases we’re most looking forward to:
- The Conjuring: Last Rites (September 5th)
- Eleanor the Great (September 26th)
- The Smashing Machine (October 3rd)
- Frankenstein (October 17th)
- Trap House (November 14th)
Unleash your inner superhero at Comic Con
It’s never too early to get into a superhero mindset: New York Comic Con tickets are already on sale for the 2025 season, and your inner vigilante is calling. Trust us, this year’s theme, “Haunted”, is going to be one for the (comic) books.
Those stopping by can expect panel discussions, screenings, signings, cosplay opportunities, and plenty of chances to find merch for their collections.
While the info for exhibitors and artists is still under wrap — which includes show specials, exhibitors, etc. — you can peruse experiences, which includes Cosplay Central, After Dark, a Pride Lounge, Family HQ (a perfect thing to do with kids), and so much more.
🗓️ October 9th to 12th
Catch “Impact: The End of the Age of Dinosaurs” at AMNH
One asteroid 66 million years ago changed everything.
Visit the American Museum of Natural History to learn about the dinosaurs’ final days on earth. The exhibit will feature fossils and fossil casts, immersive animations, and life-sized models to illustrate the significance of their extinction.
🗓️ November 17th
Revisit the Studio Museum in Harlem after its seven-year closure
Mark your calendars: the Studio Museum in Harlem is ready to welcome visitors beginning November 15th. Trust us, there’s going to be plenty to explore upon its grand reopening. The uptown institution closed its doors in 2018 for construction, and now, a seven-floor, 82,000-square-foot space awaits the community, courtesy of Adjaye Associates and executive architect Cooper Robertson.
To kick off the stellar return, there will be a free community day on the 15th featuring performances, games, giveaways, and DJ sets.
There will be a presentation of Tom Lloyd’s work, who was the subject of the Studio Museum’s inaugural exhibition in 1968. Additionally, there will be a rotating installation of works from the Museum’s distinguished permanent collection — over 9,000 pieces with works from all the way back to the 1800s.
🗓️ November 15th
Join the Secret NYC Book Club
Need a new read? The Secret NYC book club via Fable has you covered. Check out what’s happening with the club and join our discussion!
Grab a bite at the new Shaver Hall
Shaver Hall, NYC’s forthcoming food hall, is going to change the way you think about the Midtown restaurant scene.
Elegant yet inviting, the 35,000 square foot space is located within Amazon’s Hank Building, which was once the sight of the iconic Lord & Taylor department store.
Though an opening date has yet to be announced, soon, the building will be home to 11 food stalls, a steakhouse, and a modern bodega from ZGF Architecture, who’s responsible for the Portland International Airport renovation and Google’s Spruce Goose Hangar. NYC favorites joining the space are: Zazu’s, F&F, Taqueria Al Pastor, and more.
Stop by the permanent Central Perk in NYC
Could we *be* any more excited?
Friends‘ fictional Central Perk coffee shop is getting an IRL outpost in the heart of Times Square this fall, complete with coffee, bites, Friends-inspired merch, a menu from Top Chef and James Beard Award Winner Tom Colicchio, and but of course, an orange couch.
Details about opening dates have yet to be revealed, but we’ll keep you posted.
Grab a bite at The Law & Order Dun Dun Diner
True crime fans: this one’s for you.
A Law & Order pop-up diner — the “Dun Dun Diner” — complete with fun merch, themes from seasons past, and bites from Milkbar and Diner Service NY is coming to Rockefeller Center from October 3rd to 5th.
Beginning Friday, September 19th at 12pm ET and 9am PT, fans can secure a table on a first-come, first-serve basis via Tock.
Get a taste of a Southern favorite: Bojangles
Southern comfort food is making its way up north. Charlotte eatery Bojangles’ will return to NYC after 40 years, and it’s bringing its famed fried chicken and biscuits along for the ride.
With options like the Cajun chicken filet biscuit, a side of macaroni and cheese, and fried chicken sandwiches with dill pickles and creamy mayo, this menu is as indulgent as you’d expect. (Plus, the bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit combo is bound to become our morning go-to.)
The first location will pop up in East Flatbush. As soon as we know more about the opening date, we’ll be sure to keep you posted.
Try all-things pumpkin at Salt & Straw
Feeling autumnal? Get a taste of fall’s best flavors at Salt & Straw, thanks to their new Pumpkin Spiced Waffle Cone and Pumpkin Spiced Brownie Sundae.
Co-founder Tyler Malek considers it an elevated take on a classic. We’ll take two scoops, please.
📍 360 Amsterdam Ave & 540 Hudson St
Take the kiddos to Boo at the Zoo…
There’s nothing like an afternoon at the Bronx Zoo, especially during the Halloween season. On weekends until October 26th — plus Monday, October 13th — families can arrive in costume for Boo at the Zoo and enjoy the Boo Dance Party, a walk through the Pumpkin Garden, and but of course, an up-close look at the coolest animals in the world.
📍 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx
…or Harvest Glow
The Bronx Zoo’s newly reimagined Halloween extravaganza is back and better than ever with over 5,000 illuminated pumpkins that represent our planet’s various ecosystems. Enjoy the gorgeous hand-carved spectacle, fun games, food trucks, and more from now until October 31st. Learn more online.
📍 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx
Get a makeover from your favorite NYC drag queen
Fancy a fun glow-up this Halloween season? You’re in luck. The NYC Drag Makeover Experience will transform you into the spooky look of your nightmares with help from a professional makeup artist.
When all is said and done, celebrate your new look with a lip sync battle and dance party!
Attend FRIGID New York’s Days of the Dead Festival
From October 16th to November 2nd, FRIGID New York is celebrating the afterlife with a lineup of variety shows, short horror plays, psychic mediums, and more macabre madness at UNDER St. Marks (94 St. Mark’s Place). What better way to ring in Halloween and Día de los Muertos?
Book a table during Make Food Not Waste Restaurant Week
Make Food Not Waste Restaurant Week, held across NYC from September 29th to October 5th, is all about dining with a purpose. Chefs from top restaurants like Bangkok Supper Club, Cafe Mado, and Corima, to name a few, are all promoting what it means to eat without wasting — and they’ll have either signature dishes or cocktails to prove it.
Michelin-starred restaurants and James Beard Award winners are among the lineup. Learn more online.
Bring the family to Taste of the Seaport
Everyone’s favorite downtown fest returns on October 25th, all for a good cause: supporting lower Manhattan public schools.
During this annual event, now in its 15th year, you’ll be able to taste bites from renowned restaurants like Carne Mare, the legendary Delmonico’s, and Chef John Fraser’s modern French brasserie La Marchande, shop local goods, and enjoy kids’ activities.
📍 Pier 16 & 17
Enjoy a tea fit for Elphaba and Glinda
From now until November 11th, Wicked-obsessed theater folks can enjoy “Defying Gravi-Tea” Afternoon Tea in The Palm Court in the Plaza. Goodies include Wicked Ube Cheesecake, Glinda’s “Popular” Raspberry Tart, and the Oz-mazing Hazelnut Crunch. Cheers!
Cheers to Oktoberfest
The Standard Biergarten at The Standard, High Line (848 Washington St) will ring in Oktoberfest with two back-to-back weekends of celebrations beginning at 4pm on September 27th and Oct 4th. Expect beer, DJs, games, beer, prizes, a best-dressed at Oktoberfest contest, and beer. Did we mention there’s beer?
Stop by the Fall Fest at the Rockaway Hotel
Sure, the Rockaway Hotel is one of NYC’s beloved summer escapes, but that doesn’t mean the party stops once the Autumnal Equinox rolls in.
On Sunday, October 19th from 1-4pm, the hotel will host its Fall Fest at 11am with fall-themed food and drinks, local vendors, a pie-making contest at 2pm, and of course, screenings of the football games.
Take Fido to the Great Pupkin
Dogs in costumes? Need we say more?
Fort Greene Park Users and Pets Society (PUPS) announces the 27th Annual Great PUPkin Dog Costume Contest on Saturday, October 25th. If you and Fido have a great costume in mind this year, sign up ASAP! The crowd will pick the winner.
📍 Fort Greene Park
Attend the Blessing of the Animals
Arguably one of NYC’s best events is the Feast of St. Francis and Blessing of the Animals. When else can you see a camel strut down a cathedral aisle?
St. John the Divine will host the beloved gathering on Sunday, October 5th to honor Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of the environment and ecology. The service kicks off at 10:30am and the outdoor fair will follow, rain or shine.
Stop by Juilliard for some music
World-class musicians-in-the-making are holding free and low-cost performances at The Juilliard School of music. Whether you fancy some jazz or can’t resist a string quartet, there’s something for you. Have a look at the fall schedule and plan your evening out.
Stop by BBG’s Fall Harvest Festival
Brooklyn Botanic Garden — a prime spot in NYC for some fall foliage — is making the most of the season with a festival beginning at 11am on October 25th.
Visitors will get to enjoy live music, family activities, a cider and beer garden, pumpkin-decorating, and more.
Try your hand at fall-themed crafts
Artbydgr is embracing the best of the season — ghosts and all. The pottery biz is inviting creative, autumn-minded folks to try their hands at the following classes:
- September 18th – Talea Workshop Ghost Demo
- October 5th – Saturn Road Spooky Ghost Sale
- October 8th – Saturn Road Workshop Make Your Own Tea Light Ghost
- October 25th & 26th– Books Are Magic Pop Up Sale
- November 6th – Talea Workshop Hand Build Pumpkin Tea Light Holders
- November 19th – Saturn Road Workshop Autumn Textures (pinecones, bark, leaves, and acorns pressed into clay)
Celebrate Thanksgiving with loved ones
We’re always grateful for NYC, and fortunately our home base is the perfect place to celebrate Thanksgiving. From the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to hearty dinners, we’re certain you’ll find something to love.
Cheer on NYC Marathon participants
If you’re not keen on running 26 miles (can’t blame you there), enjoy the athletes among us who are up for tackling the challenge. As you cheer on your friends, you’ll be able to take in a slew of amazing signs along the way.
Learn more about the marathon online.
Catch a football game
Will the Giants and Jets prove victorious this season? Probably not, but we’re still keen on cheering them on.
Our guide to the best football bars in the city will make your Sunday and Mondays complete.
Cheer on the Rangers…or Islanders
Hockey season can get pretty intense (and disappointing at times) but we found the best NYC spots for fans to celebrate a win or mourn the downfall of the season. Fingers crossed for the former!
What’s on your fall bucket list this year? We’re aiming for a little bit of everything.