Many people travel to New York to experience autumn in the Big Apple, because that's when the city is, if not at its most beautiful, at least very colorful.
I have written down the best places and breathtaking beauties of autumn foliage in New York City (NYC) for you below. Find the best places to admire the vibrant colors of fall. Discover popular viewpoints such as Central Park , the High Line, Prospect Park, Fort Tryon Park, Brooklyn Botanic Garden...
After a stroll through the impressive autumn foliage, you can enjoy a delicious meal in nearby cafes and restaurants. Read on to plan your fall adventure in NYC.
Autumn and the changing color of leaves in New York varies depending on the year. Although it's difficult to predict fall weather and is different every year, October is generally the best month to visit New York City for leaf-peeping. At the beginning of the month of Okbober the leaves begin to change color, but the peak is usually in the second half of October and lasts until early-mid November.
New York is very sunny during the fall season and a sweater or lighter jacket is usually enough to keep you warm. Keep in mind that the evenings and the corners near the water can be a little cooler.
- Central Park offers a stunning backdrop of vibrant fall foliage
- Explore the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, the Bow Bridge and The Ramble
- Enjoy the autumnal views at the Bethesda Terrace and fountain
My tip: Check out the park from Top of the Rock or on a helicopter flight . The Cafe in Mandarin Oriental Hotel, MO Lounge, on the 35th floor, offers you a breathtaking view of Central Park and Columbus Circle. The best view is from the roof terrace of the Metropolitan Museum .
2. High Line Park: Autumnal view from above
- The High Line gives you a unique perspective of NYC's fall foliage
- You can enjoy panoramic views of vibrant fall colors against the city backdrop
- Discover artfully designed gardens and installations
My tip: Edge or the Whitney Museum of American Art offers you the best view of the High Line Park from above. The Hotel Selina has a wonderful rooftop that hovers over the park, but is often, but not always, only accessible to hotel guests. Otherwise, grab something to eat and drink at Chelsea Market.
Access to the Whitney Museum of American Art is also included in all sightseeing passes.
3. Prospect Park: Nature in autumnal colors
- Prospect Park in Brooklyn presents an impressive autumn landscape
- Visit Long Meadow, Nethermead and Ravine for scenic views
- Relax in nearby cafés like Bluestone or Milk & Honey Café
My tip: The Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens tour offers you great insights and the opportunity to easily get to the park at the end of the tour. Take a look at the Brooklyn Museum, it is located right next to the park.
4. Fort Tryon Park: Hidden Gems in Fall
- Fort Tryon Park in Upper Manhattan features impressive fall foliage
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Hudson River and the George Washington Bridge
- Sample delicious culinary delights at Casa Tuya or relax at Cafe Buunni nearby
My tip: Sail around Manhattan with the Cirle Line if the route to the park seems too far for you or, even better, rent a bike
5. Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Fall colors
- The Brooklyn Botanic Garden shines in bright colors in autumn
- Discover the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden and the Cherry Esplanade
- Enjoy fresh, seasonal cuisine at Yellow Magnolia Café or sample unique ice cream flavors at Ample Hills Creamery
My tip: Probably the most charming area in New York, Boerum Hill, is not far away. Take a look at Cafe Anaïs there.
On every excursion, there are wonderful views along the way
6. Riverside Park: Autumnal riverside views
- Riverside Park in Manhattan offers a beautiful setting along the Hudson River from the southern tip of the island to the George Washington Bridge
- Explore the scenic trails and enjoy the fall colors along the river
- Relax in nearby cafes like Pier i Café and Ellington in the Park
My tip: I think it's the most beautiful bike path in New York and it calls for a bike trip. You can rent a bike here .
- Something unusual? Maybe, but Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn offers a unique combination of autumnal beauty and historic charm.
- Explore the magnificent gravesites and walking trails surrounded by colorful fall foliage.
- Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and impressive views of the Manhattan skyline.
My tip: Walk to the Red Hook Lobster Pound Restaurant and from there take the NYC Ferry to Wall Street or 34th Street Station.
- The Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park on Roosevelt Island offers a magnificent setting overlooking the East River and the Manhattan skyline.
- Visit the lighthouse at the northern tip of the island and the former smallpox hospital, which is now a memorial.
- Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and autumnal views along the riverbank.
My tip: Take the cable car to the island, you'll find it at the corner of 59th Street and 2nd Avenue.
- Squibb Park Bridge: Autumn walk across Brooklyn Bridge Park
The Squibb Park Bridge is a pedestrian bridge in Brooklyn Bridge Park that allows for a scenic fall stroll. - Cross the bridge and enjoy panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River.
- Enjoy the fall colors of the park and explore the different areas such as Pier 1, Pier 6, Brooklyn Bridge Plaza and stop by the Vineapple Cafe .
My tip: We'll pass by here on the Panorama Night Tour , something you shouldn't miss.