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Autumn in New York City is nothing short of magical. As the weather cools and the leaves begin to change, the city colors itself in reds, oranges, and yellows. While NYC is famous for its skyscrapers and bustling streets, its fall foliage offers a different charm.
In this blog post, we’re diving into the 10 must-see spots around the city where you can experience the best of fall’s colors.
So grab your scarf and a warm drink, and let’s explore the top places to witness NYC’s stunning fall foliage.
Central Park
Central Park is an absolute must-see during the fall season. As the leaves start changing into brilliant shades of gold, orange, and red, the park transforms into a breathtaking natural escape in the middle of the city. The cooler weather and vibrant colors make it one of the most peaceful places to explore in NYC.
One great way to enjoy the fall atmosphere is by renting a rowboat at the Central Park Boathouse. Gliding across the calm water, surrounded by the fiery foliage, is an unforgettable way to experience the park.
Another fun activity is visiting the Conservatory Garden, an underrated gem in the northeast corner of the park. This formal garden offers stunning fall blooms and picturesque pathways perfect for a leisurely walk or quiet moment.
New York Botanical Garden
The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) is nestled in the Bronx. This massive garden is like stepping into a natural wonderland, especially during autumn. The trees explode into bright yellows, deep oranges, and fiery reds, creating a perfect fall backdrop for a relaxing day out.
One unique fall activity here is the Thain Family Forest Walk. This 50-acre forest comes alive in the fall, with towering trees creating a colorful canopy above. You can follow the trails and feel like you’re in the middle of the wilderness, despite being in the city.
Another must-do is visiting the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, where you can experience Kiku. It showcases an impressive display of chrysanthemums in full bloom, adding vibrant bursts of color to the autumn palette.
Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park in the heart of Greenwich Village feels even more magical as the trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The Washington Square Arch framed by colorful leaves creates a postcard-worthy view, making it an ideal place for a leisurely afternoon.
One activity that adds to the fall vibe is people-watching on a park bench. The park’s lively atmosphere comes alive with street musicians, artists, and local students from NYU. Grab a hot coffee, pick a bench under the golden trees, and soak in the local scene.
Another fun thing to do is joining a chess game at the outdoor tables. Washington Square Park is known for its chess players.
High Line
The High Line is an elevated park that stretches above the streets of Manhattan’s West Side, giving you an amazing view of the city framed by the changing leaves. The High Line’s carefully curated plants and trees bring autumn to life, with pops of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows contrasting with the urban backdrop.
One thing you have to do is take a walk along the entire length of the High Line. As you move from the Meatpacking District to the Hudson Yards, the plants reflect the season’s colors, and you get constantly changing views of both the city and the Hudson River.
Another fun activity is exploring the public art installations that pop up along the High Line. As the leaves change, so do the art pieces, offering a cool blend of nature and creativity.
Riverside Park
Stretching along the Hudson River on the Upper West Side, Riverside Park offers stunning views of both the river and the changing leaves. The peaceful atmosphere combined with the park’s natural beauty makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing fall escape.
One fun thing to do is rent a bike and ride along the waterfront. The dedicated bike path lets you cruise through the park, taking in the fall colors while enjoying a breezy ride along the Hudson.
Another must-do activity is having a picnic on one of the grassy lawns. Grab a blanket, and some fall snacks, and relax under the colorful canopy of trees.
Prospect Park
Designed by the same architects who created Central Park, Prospect Park has a more relaxed, neighborhood feel, and its fall transformation is simply stunning.
One of the best ways to experience the foliage is by walking the trails of the Ravine. This hidden forest within the park offers a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy the quiet crunch of leaves underfoot, surrounded by brilliant shades of red and gold.
Another great activity is visiting the Prospect Park Zoo, where you can explore the exhibits while enjoying the fall backdrop. The zoo is small and charming, and wandering through it while surrounded by the park’s autumnal beauty adds a fun, seasonal touch to the experience.
Inwood Hill Park
Located at the northern tip of Manhattan, Inwood Hill Park is home to the last remaining natural forest in the borough, making it feel like a true retreat. In the fall, the park’s dense woods burst into vivid reds, oranges, and yellows, making it one of the most stunning spots to experience autumn in the city.
One of the coolest things to do here is hiking up to the park’s highest points. The trails wind through the forest and lead to incredible views of the Hudson River and the Palisades.
Another fun activity is exploring the Native American caves and historical landmarks scattered throughout the park. The caves are said to have been used by the Lenape people, and the area’s rich history adds a layer of intrigue as you wander among the fall foliage.
Fort Tryon Park
Perched high above the Hudson River in Upper Manhattan, Fort Tryon Park offers stunning views of the river and the Palisades, all framed by vibrant fall colors. The park’s peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained gardens make it an ideal spot to soak in autumn’s beauty.
One great way to experience the park is by exploring the Heather Garden. This lovely garden is one of the city’s largest perennial gardens, and in the fall, it’s filled with blooms that complement the changing leaves.
Another must-do activity is visiting The Cloisters, a museum located within the park that’s dedicated to medieval art and architecture. Surrounded by stunning fall scenery, The Cloisters offer a serene escape where you can take in both art and nature.
Roosevelt Island
Situated in the East River between Manhattan and Queens, Roosevelt Island provides breathtaking views of both the city skyline and the fall colors that blanket its parks and walkways.
One activity that stands out is taking a ride on the Roosevelt Island Tramway. This aerial tramway provides an incredible bird’s-eye view of the island and the surrounding fall foliage. As you soar above the East River, you’ll get a unique perspective on the colorful trees and cityscape below.
Another great experience is visiting the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park. This beautifully designed memorial park is a serene spot to enjoy the autumn colors.
The Bronx River Greenway
Stretching along the Bronx River, this scenic pathway provides a picturesque backdrop of autumn colors as the trees lining the riverbank turn vibrant shades of gold, orange, and red.
One great activity is biking or walking along the greenway’s trails. The route winds through various parks and natural areas, giving you plenty of opportunities to take in the fall foliage up close.
Another must-try experience is visiting the Bronx Zoo, which is close to the Greenway. The zoo’s proximity allows you to combine a day of wildlife viewing with a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the greenway. The zoo’s grounds are also beautifully adorned with autumn hues, making it a perfect complement to your fall adventure.