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New York is an incredible destination year-round, but something about New York in fall makes it a wonderful time to explore the city. The weather begins to cool; the first coat weather arrives, and the air turns crisp, bringing a seasonal change to New York. Think fall foliage in Central Park, stoops decked with Halloween decorations, cosy brunch spots, and cider doughnuts at the farmers market.
Autumn is a personal favourite season of mine, and New York is my favourite city. So the two combined make for a dream trip!
Looking for more autumnal travel? This guide has the best places to visit:
Best Places to Travel to in Autumn
HEADING TO NEW YORK? CHECK OUT THESE GUIDES TO HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP:
5 Days in New York: The Perfect Itinerary
Food In New York: Where to Eat
First Time in New York? Here’s Everything You Need to Know!
Solo Travel in New York: A Complete Guide
New York Go City Pass Review: Everything You Need to Know
Why Visit New York in Fall
There is much debate about the best time to visit New York, and having been in spring, winter, and autumn, I believe fall is the best time.
There are a couple of main reasons why New York in fall is the perfect time to visit. The first is the weather. The heat of the summer has passed, and the temperatures are now cooler, and the air is crisp and cold. Generally, at this time of year, it is sunny with little humidity, making it perfect for sightseeing.
At this time of year, there are also slightly fewer crowds. Most people visit between June and September when the schools are on holiday, so October and November tend to be a little quieter. Meaning it is easier to get around, and the accommodation prices are marginally cheaper (although, don’t expect budget. It is still New York after all…).
But the best reason to visit New York in fall? It is at its absolute most beautiful. I also visited in spring and loved the flowers everywhere. But in autumn? The colours of the fall foliage in Central Park are simply stunning. The tree-lined streets in the West Village and Upper East Side are resplendent in autumnal reds and oranges, and the stoops are decked out for Halloween. This time of year gives all the cosy city vibes you could ask for.
Weather in New York in Fall
The weather in New York in fall does vary month to month. Starting with warmer, longer days and the temperature dropping as you approach December. At a glance, here is what to expect each month:
| Month | Average High | Average Low | Average rainfall |
| September | 76°F / 24°C | 64°F / 18°C | 4.3 in / 109 mm |
| October | 65°F / 18°C | 54°F / 12°C | 4.4 in / 112 mm |
| November | 55°F / 13°C | 44°F / 7°C | 3.6 in / 91 mm |
New York in September
September is the gateway to autumn and a gentle introduction to the season. At the beginning of the month, the temperatures are still high, much like summer. But this gives way to cooler evenings and thinner crowds, particularly after Labor Day. The trees in the city are still green, so you won’t get too much in the way of fall foliage, but it is a great month for outdoor dining, rooftop bars and walking the city without needing a coat.
New York in October
October is the month most people think of as peak fall in New York. However, the foliage actually turns quite late, so if you are visiting at the beginning of the month, expect Central Park to still be fairly green. Towards the middle of the month, the colours will start to change, perfect for autumnal walks. Days are mostly crisp and bright, and you’ll want a light coat during the day and a cosy knit in the evening. The city gets fully into the Halloween spirit, with decorated stoops, pumpkins outside every corner shop and pop-up events. It’s also the most popular month for visitors, so book hotels early.
New York In November
By November, fall has fully arrived in New York. As peak foliage usually arrives in early to mid-November, later than you might think, you can expect the autumnal colours to be out in full force. The temperature has really started to drop with winter just around the corner, so make sure to wrap up to walk around the city. Daylight is shorter, with the sun setting around 4.30 pm by the end of the month after the clocks go back. It’s also the start of the festive season, with the NYC Marathon and the Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the Christmas lights begin to appear.
Best Time to Visit New York in Fall
The best time to visit New York in fall is from mid-October to early November. It is the perfect balance of fall foliage and weather that is cool but not cold. The weather is generally pleasant, with bright days. It is perfect for wandering; the crowds are thinner, and plenty is going on in the city. This time in fall is also the busiest time with events, from the Halloween parade, farmers markets and Thanksgiving Parade towards the end of November.
If you want to visit on a bit more of a budget, the best times to look at are September and early to mid-November. These tend to be the most affordable spots, when hotels are usually cheaper. In September, once the summer crowds leave after Labor Day, and in November before Thanksgiving week, when prices rise again. October is generally the most expensive month, especially on weekends.
If it is your first time in New York, the best time to visit would be in October. The weather is ideal for walking, and the city is at its most atmospheric.
What to Pack for New York in Fall
With the weather starting to cool, there are a few key things to pack for a trip to New York in fall:
- Layers: The most important thing! The weather is cooler, but the days warm up and cool down. Pack T-shirts, light long sleeves and a jumper or cardigan, so you can add or remove as needed.
- A mid-weight jacket: A denim, bomber or trench-style jacket is perfect for September and October. In November, consider swapping it for a warmer coat.
- Comfortable walking shoes: No matter how much public transport you use, you will easily walk 15,000+ steps a day so make sure you have well worn in, comfortable shoes.
- Waterproof jacket and shoes: Showers are common, especially in October, and puddles at street corners are unavoidable.
- Umbrella: Pop one in your bag, just in case! To make sure you aren’t caught out in a shower.
- A portable charger: Maps, photos and tickets drain your battery fast.
- Sunglasses: The low autumn sun is bright, especially on clear October days.
- A reusable water bottle: There are plenty of refill spots around the city.
- Power adapter (for UK visitors): The US uses Type A and B plugs at 120V, so check your devices are dual voltage.
- A warm coat, scarf and gloves (if visiting in November): Evenings drop quickly, and the wind between the buildings makes it feel colder than the forecast.
Best Things to Do in New York in Fall
There are so many amazing things to do in New York that are perfect at any time of the year. But if you are visiting New York in fall, here are some specific spots you need to add to your list.
For everything you need to see and do in New York at any time of the year, use this guide to help plan:
5 Days in New York: The Perfect Itinerary
Central Park
Where else to start this list? If there is one thing you need to do when visiting New York in the fall, it is to head to Central Park. The park is huge, covering 341 hectares (843 acres), so there are plenty of paths and walkways to explore. And just wandering, jogging, cycling or walking is one of the best things to do. But there are also some iconic spots that you definitely need to visit.
My favourite part was the lake and the classic Bow Bridge, which looked absolutely beautiful, surrounded by the foliage. Other spots not to miss include the Mall and Literary Walk, and The Ramble, Bethesda Terrace and Sheep Meadow.
If you want to see the fall foliage in its full force, the Mall is the place to head! The leaves tend to peak in the first couple of weeks of November, so plan to visit then if you want full autumn!
Little Island
Little Island opened in May 2021 and is an urban park that was built on Pier 55. It is a dramatic structure, with the park built on top of concrete columns that rise out of the Hudson, with dramatic views of the Manhattan skyline. During autumn, the colours in the park transform into golden hues of oranges, reds, yellows and bronzes. It is also a great spot to head to for sunset.
The High Line
One end of the High Line starts at Hudson Yards, and it runs from there all the way down to Gansevoort Street. It was an old rail line that has been turned into a linear elevated park. And a wonderful spot for seeing views of the Hudson and glimpses of the grid of Manhattan.
In autumn, the trees that line the High Line come alive with colour, making it the perfect time to walk along and take in the incredible New York sights.
Charming Fall Streets in New York
There are a few specific streets that are definitely worth checking out when visiting New York in fall, for those extra autumnal vibes:
- St Luke’s Place: A stunning street in the West Village that transforms into a ‘yellow brick road’ in fall. It is lined with mature ginkgo trees that shed brilliant yellow leaves, completely covering the sidewalks.
- Pomander Walk: A private, gated pedestrian alleyway in the Upper West Side that feels like an English village. It is closed to the public, but you can get a glimpse inside. During fall the small front yards, hedges, and surrounding foliage catch the seasonal colours.
- Grove Court: Famous for its annual October pumpkin display. The residents decorate the historic stoops and entrance ways with rows of carved pumpkins and autumn foliage, creating one of the city’s most charming seasonal sights.
Pier 17 Pumpkin Arch
One of the most iconic and photographed spots in New York in fall is the pumpkin arch that appears on Pier 17 in the Seaport. The arch is made from hundreds of pumpkins and covered in fall leaves. It sits on the Heineken Riverdeck on the north side of the pier, at 89 South Street. Brooklyn Bridge is behind it, making the perfect backdrop. Particularly when the twinkly lights come on in the evening.
It is free to visit and is open 24/7, so you can go at any time of the day. But it is extra special at golden hour. In 2026, it is open from 22nd October to 16th November.
Greenacre Park
Greenacre Park is a tiny, hidden 6,000-square-foot pocket park in Midtown East. It features a 25-foot granite waterfall, which has been designed to drown out city traffic. The park management fills the urns and planters with vibrant autumnal plants, which make it extra special at this time of year. It is open from 8 am to 7 pm, although this shifts to 6 pm from 1st November.
Fall Stoops
The most famous of the stoops is Stoop in the City, which has become a social media sensation. Located at 241 East 78th Street (between Second and Third Avenue) on the Upper East Side, Kristi Hemric decorates her stoop for every season. In autumn, she starts with a fall theme, and it gets spookier as it gets closer to Halloween. Expect queues to get a photo with this iconic spot!
But there are plenty of other stoops to see in Manhattan that have been decorated for fall and Halloween. Places to check out include:
- West Village (Perry, Bank, Charles and Jane Streets): It has quiet, tree-lined streets of brownstones and townhouses, and probably the most reliable area for pumpkins, mums and Halloween displays.
- Greenwich Village (West 10th Street): Elegant brownstones close to Washington Square Park, so it’s easy to walk there from West Village
- Upper West Side (side streets in the West 70s and 80s): Long rows of brownstones between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue, with plenty of stoops and the park nearby for foliage.
- Upper East Side (side streets in the East 70s): Close to Stoop in the City, so you can see the famous stoop and then browse nearby blocks for quieter ones.
- Chelsea (Cushman Row, West 20th Street): Greek Revival townhouses with raised entrances, which look great with seasonal decorations.
Decorations tend to go up in early October and get more elaborate as Halloween approaches, so the last two weeks of October are the best time to go. However, do remember that these are people’s homes, so admire from the pavement, don’t climb the steps and keep noise down.
See the Fall Foliage
Central Park gets the biggest billing for fall foliage in New York, but there are some other spots in the city you should visit to see beautiful autumnal colours.
Prospect Park is often called Brooklyn’s answer to Central Park, and it is a great place to see New York in fall without the crowds. Head to Long Meadow for open views of the changing trees, then walk through the Ravine and up Lookout Hill for the best colour.
Tucked away in northern Manhattan, Fort Tryon Park has winding paths, hillside gardens and views across the Hudson River; all are stunning with the autumn leaves. It’s also home to The Cloisters, so you can add a museum visit with a foliage walk.
In Brooklyn Botanic Garden, head to the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden. The maples reflect in the water, and there are plenty of photo opportunities. There is an entry fee, so check prices and opening times before you go. It is included in a Go City Pass, which is a great way to save money on the top attractions in New York. Find out more HERE.
Find out all you need to know about a New York Go City Pass and how it can save you money:
New York Go City Pass Review: Everything You Need to Know
One of my favourite spots in New York is Washington Square Park, and in autumn the famous arch looks even more special, framed by golden trees. Surrounded by buskers, chess players and students, it is an easy stop if you’re already exploring the Village streets.
Finally, Riverside Park stretches along the Hudson on the Upper West Side. It has tree-lined paths and river views through the leaves. It’s a lovely, less touristy alternative to Central Park. A good option for an autumn stroll.
Sunrise and Sunset
This time of year is particularly good for sunrise and sunsets. Firstly because the colours can be pretty spectactular, but also the timing of year means sunrise isn’t too early, and sunset isn’t too late.
For sunrise, make sure not to miss a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge towards Manhattan. It is one of my absolute favourite things to do in New York and is the perfect start to a day. Get the subway to High Street-Brooklyn Bridge Station, which is served by the A and C trains. From there, it is about a 10-minute walk onto the bridge, so allow enough time. Another must-do, is to see the sunrise from the top of the Empire State Building. This is only offered on Saturdays (and even then not all Saturdays, so do check), and they have limited tickets. Because of this, it is quiet and honestly the best viewpoint I have been to in New York.
For sunset, head to Little Island, Domino Park or Pebble Beach in Brooklyn or Hunter’s Point South Park in Queens. However, the best sunset I saw was from the St. George’s Ferry, as we went right past the Statue of Liberty. Fall is the perfect time to do this trip, as the sun sets at the perfect time. Catch the ferry from Midtown West or Battery Park City, and take it all the way to Wall Street. It is the closest ferry to go past Lady Liberty, and costs $5. Absolutely incredible!
Seasonal events and festivals
During fall in New York, there are plenty of seasonal events and festivals that make this time of year even more special to visit.
If you are visiting at the end of October, make sure not to miss the Village Halloween Parade. Taking place every year on Halloween. It starts on Canal Street and 6th Avenue and heads up to 6th Avenue to 15th Street. More than 50,000 people take to the streets, all dressed in Halloween and spooky costumes. It starts at 7pm, but you will want to get there early to get a good viewing spot on 6th Avenue.
Taking place on the first weekend of November is the NYC Marathon. Even if you aren’t running, it is a great atmosphere to watch 50,000 people run one of the most famous marathons in the world. The 26.2-mile race takes place across all 5 boroughs.
One of the biggest and most famous events in the New York calendar is the Thanksgiving Day Parade. Thanksgiving is arguably a bigger deal in the States than Christmas, and nowhere celebrates like New York. The Macy’s Parade features lots of floats, balloons, and giant characters that walk down 2.5 miles from West 77th Street all the way down to Macy’s on 34th Street in Harold Square. It starts at 8.30 am, but make sure to get there early if you want a good viewing spot.
Cosy indoor activities
While the weather is generally good in New York in the fall, there are, of course, days that can be a little grey and drizzly. And, if you are visiting in November, the weather can be too cool to spend all day outside. Luckily, there are plenty of cosy indoor activities, making it a brilliant city on a rainy day.
Museums
New York has some of the best museums in the world, and they’re a great way to spend a chilly afternoon. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the American Museum of Natural History and MoMA are some of the most famous. But there are also smaller museums such as the Frick Collection or the Morgan Library that are quieter and just as interesting. Many are close to Central Park, so you can combine a museum visit with a walk through the foliage.
Broadway and theatre
Autumn is a great time to catch a Broadway show. With the evenings drawing in earlier, the theatre district feels extra lively. If you’re on a budget, look into the TKTS booth in Times Square for same-day discounted tickets, or check for ticket lotteries and rush tickets. Off-Broadway shows are another great option, often with smaller venues and lower prices.
Bookshops
New York is an absolute paradise for book lovers, and there is nothing better on an autumn day than to get yourself lost in a bookstore. The Strand is the most famous, with its “18 miles of books” slogan, which it really does have! But I also loved The Drama Store, which has the most incredible book sculpture inside. As well as Sweet Pickle Books, on the Lower East Side, which sells second-hand books and also pickles. And do check out Housing Works Bookstore Café in SoHo, which combines books with coffee and a charitable cause. Browse the second-hand shelves, pick up a novel and settle in with a drink.
Fall Day trips from New York
If you have a bit longer to spend in New York, the a day trip out of the city is a great way to see even more fall colour, as the foliage upstate usually peaks earlier than in the city, around mid to late October.
The Hudson Valley is the most famous choice, and the Metro-North Hudson Line from Grand Central takes you to riverside towns like Cold Spring and Beacon in roughly an hour and a half. These are both popular for wandering and views over the river.
Sleepy Hollow is famous for its Halloween events and the legend of the Headless Horseman It is on the same line and under an hour from Grand Central, so it’s an easy trip in October.
For art among the autumn leaves, Storm King Art Center is an outdoor sculpture park set in rolling hills, and it’s easiest to reach by car, with public transport options being more limited.
Bear Mountain State Park is the best pick for hiking, and it’s around an hour’s drive from the city or reachable by bus from Port Authority.
Food and Drink to Try in New York in Fall
There is so much amazing food and drink to try in New York (you can check out some of my favourites here: Food In New York: Where to Eat), but I have spotted some extra special autumn goodies you need to try if you are visiting New York in fall.
- Scoop in Midtown Manhattan: They are serving the cutest pumpkin shaped bagels, perfect for autumn!
- Commerce Inn: Head here for brunch, in a cosy early American tavern and Shaker-inspired restaurant.
- Union Square Greenmarket: There are lots of stalls selling freshly pressed apple cider, pumpkin cookies and all kinds of squash. The best place to try a cider donut, and talk to the owners. Open on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays,
- Doughnut Plant: In Chelsea and the Lower East Side. They have seasonal flavour changes, and their pumpkin doughnuts are a fall favourite.
- Doughnuttery: A mini doughnut specialist since 2012, with mini apple cider doughnuts returning each fall. Check the current location before you go.
- Funny Face Bakery: A cookie shop whose seasonal pumpkin sugar spice cookie has white chocolate chips mixed into pumpkin dough, topped with cinnamon. Perfect to grab for a walk in the park.
- City Bakery: Famous for its hot chocolate, which is poured (or dolloped) thick and served with vanilla-scented marshmallows cut into squares. Perfect for a chilly November afternoon.
- Kelso Beer Co.: This brewery in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn makes a well-loved Imperial Pumpkin Beer every fall. Perfect if you’d rather drink your pumpkin than eat it!
Where to Stay in New York in Fall
When it comes to deciding where to stay in New York, there is an overwhelming amount of choice. However, there are a few neighbourhoods I would recommend basing yourself in if you are visiting New York in fall:
Midtown: The most convenient location, given its central spot in Manhattan. This is ideal if it is your first time in New York and you want to fully explore all areas of the city. It has good access to Central Park, as well as Lower Manhattan and is ideal if you want to catch a Broadway Show.
Upper West Side: If your main goal of visiting New York in fall is to explore Central Park, enjoy long walks, cosy cafes and make the most of the fall foliage, then this is the best place to base yourself.
Greenwich Village: The quintessential New York experience, and home to many iconic filming locations. As well as bakeries, boutique shops and cafes.
If you want to stay in Brooklyn, take a look at Williamsburg. This is the trendiest neighbourhood in Brooklyn, and is only one stop away from Manhattan on the subway.
Getting Around New York in Fall
As with visiting at any time, the subway is by far the easiest way to get around New York in the fall. You can tap in with a contactless card or phone using OMNY, so there’s no need to buy a ticket. As of early 2026, a single ride on the New York City subway costs $3.00 via the OMNY contactless system. The maximum you will be charged in 7 days is $36. This essentially means that you ride for free after 12 trips.
However, the cooler weather also makes it the best time of year to explore on foot. Walking is the best way to see the fall foliage and the decorated stoops, so make sure you have comfortable shoes and an umbrella for showery days. Daylight shortens as the season goes on, with the clocks going back in early November, so plan outdoor activities for the daytime and save indoor ones for the evening. Check the forecast each morning and dress in layers, as it can be mild in the afternoon and chilly by the evening.
Tips for Visiting New York in Fall
Some top tips to help you enjoy your trip to New York in autumn:
- Book early for busy weekends: Hotels and popular events fill up quickly around peak foliage, Halloween and Marathon weekend, so book your flights and accommodation as far ahead as you can.
- Check event dates before you go: Dates for the NYC Marathon, parades and seasonal pop-ups like the Pumpkin Arch change each year, so check the official websites when planning your trip. Don’t be like me and book a flight home the day before Thanksgiving…
- Visit in the week if you can: Popular spots like Central Park, Stoop in the City and the West Village streets are much quieter on weekdays, which makes for better photos.
- Plan around the shorter days: The clocks go back in early November, and the sun sets before 5 pm, so save outdoor sights and walking routes for the daytime and leave museums, shows and cosy cafés for the evening.
FAQs About Visiting New York in Fall
Is New York good in the fall?
New York is incredible in the fall! The city takes on a new atmosphere, and its cosy, beautiful and perfect for walking.
What month is best for fall colours in NYC?
The leaves start to turn later than you think, so if you want to see peak foliage, look to go the last week in October to the first couple of weeks in November.
How cold is New York in October?
Generally, the weather is still mild in October. The temperatures can reach the 20s°C, but it gets cooler in the evening. Showers can occur, so do check the forecast.
Is fall or spring better in New York?
It all comes down to personal preference. I love spring in New York! The city comes alive with colourful flowers everywhere, and there is a feeling of emerging from the cold winter. Central Park is green again, and outdoor dining returns. Both are absolutely fabulous, but for me the cosy autumn vibes and fall colours win.
Do I need a coat in November?
Yes, by November the weather the temperature has dropped low enough to want to bring a warm coat.
Useful travel tools and links
To help you plan your trip, here are some of my favourite useful travel tools and links I use on a daily basis to travel:
- Hostelworld: The place to book hostels and cheaper accommodation. Perfect for backpacking trips. With 24 hour cancellation options, and easy to manage from your account.
- Booking.com: One of the largest places to search for hotels around the world. Often with free cancellation options.
- Hotels.com: Also a fantastic place to source hotels, and they offer a loyalty programme.
- Expedia: Another option for hotels as well as a great place to search for flights, car hire and more.
- Skyscanner: The best place to search for flights to find the best rates.
- GetYourGuide: Easy access to book a wide range of curated tours, activities, and experiences around the world.
- Viator: A great place to search for group tours and day trips. Part of the TripAdvisor brand.
- KnowRoaming: eSIMs are a game changer for travel. Purchase before you go and be connected as soon as you land. KnowRoaming eSIM plans keep you and your devices seamlessly connected in 200+ international destinations.
- G Adventures: The ‘go to’ for all group travel tour adventures. Perfect for solo travellers.
- Amazon: Link to my storefront with ALL the useful gadgets and items I couldn’t travel without.
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