Fall is a special time in New York State. From the beauty of the changing leaves to cooler nights about, a change in the air beckons new and exciting opportunities to discover this season. With countless experiences you can take in, here are five of Playbill’s Top Fall Experiences everyone can enjoy in and around New York City.
1. Experience Central Park (Manhattan, NY)
Fall in Central Park is like no other. Roughly 18,000 trees transform into vibrant shades of yellows, oranges, and reds, making it one of the park’s most photogenic times of year. You can also take tours of Central Park, bring a picnic into Sheep’s Meadow to enjoy the quiet beauty, or, if you are a runner, enjoy the miles of paths and terrain in perfect running weather!
2. Walk the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze (Hudson-On-Croton, NY)
Several years ago, I went to The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, and it is one of my favorite fall memories. Found in the Hudson Valley (a quick train or car ride from NYC) at the historical Van Cortlandt Manor, this half-mile walking tour features over 7,000 jack-o-lanterns on-site all hand-carved by their small team of artists. With themed installations, synchronized lighting, and a custom soundtrack—Blaze transforms thousands of pumpkins into a one-of-a-kind fall spectacle.
3. Take A Season’s Last Ride (or Two) at Luna Park (Brooklyn, NY)
While Luna Park (and Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park next door), are NYC’s only operating amusement parks, they offer big fun in the fall! Luna Park is now open weekends (and select weekdays) thru November 2 with their “Halloween Harvest” event! Guests can enjoy “Spooktacular Fun” at the event, or head over to the park to hop one last ride this season before they get ready for next year. A ton of fun a train ride from Manhattan!
4. Sip and Celebrate at Oktoberfest (Multiple Locations)
If you missed our 5 Places to Celebrate Oktoberfest in NYC article earlier this month, we have found five beer gardens where you can have a beverage, mingle with friends, and enjoy the fall. And if those five are not enough, also consider Treadwell Park’s spectacular Oktoberfest celebration! Known for its interactive games and expansive beverage menu, the bar is transforming into the city’s ultimate German celebration. Guests can expect authentic brews, festive photo ops, entertainment, and hearty bites like bratwursts, schnitzels, and more. I am a superfan of Treadwell Park and can highly recommend!
5. See a Broadway or Off-Broadway Show This Fall!
Fall is the perfect time to come and experience NYC theatre, as the new theatrical season begins with some exciting offerings beginning their run. The “locals’ season” allows for greater ticket availability to hit and new shows, and a schedule with earlier curtain times (many at 7 PM). Here are 5 New Shows to See This Fall on Broadway and Off-Broadway we recommend!
Whether you're a theatregoer looking for an experience, a post-show drink or a performance to celebrate the season, there are so many great options for you! Happy Fall, everyone!
There are many additional places to visit, shows we recommend, hotels to stay at, and more! Keep checking back monthly as we continue sharing things to do in NYC (and London).
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