The Perfect Fall Day in New York City


Fall in New York City is one of my favorite parts of the year! There is something so special about watching the leaves change color in Central Park and seeing all the spooky decorations around the city. Will and I are taking full advantage of the gorgeous weather and vibes that come along with autumn, so I have put together the perfect fall day in NYC itinerary for you to get into the spooky mood and celebrate the season! If you want to see even more of these fall activities, check out my vlog, where I filmed every moment of our fall adventures!


Pick a Neighborhood and Grab Coffee

Something I LOVE about New York is that you don't have to have a plan. You can pick any neighborhood, explore, and find your new favorite coffee shop or restaurant. One morning, while walking in the Upper West Side, Will and I saw The Picky Barista, and we stopped in for coffee. Will ordered the maple cinnamon latte, and I got the tiramisu latte (I preferred drinking Will's!). I also got a warmed Nutella roll that was covered in delicious cinnamon. A great cup of coffee and a sweet treat is the perfect way to start a fall day in NYC!

Explore the Fall Decor and Brownstones

There is something so special and unique about seeing Halloween decorations in New York City. My favorite places to see fall decorations are on the stoops of the brownstones in Greenwich, the Upper West Side, and the Upper East Side. So many people go all out with their decorations, and it is always so sweet to see all the different ways in which people choose to decorate their homes for the fall and Halloween.

Attend Butterfield Market and Have a Picnic in Central Park

 
 

The fall is so peaceful and calming, so I love getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city by going into Central Park. This year, Will and I went to Butterfield Market (which has a cute painting outside for a photo op!), and we grabbed some yummy snacks and sweet treats to picnic in the park. While we weren't super hungry, the market has warm lunch and sushi options if you want a nice lunch in the park!

Rowboat in Central Park

Engulf yourself in the city's fall foliage by rowing in Central Park! About halfway through October, all the leaves begin to turn color, and it is the perfect time to see the seasons change! I recommend getting to the boats right when they open to ensure you get a rowboat and beat some of the heavy crowds. Taking a boat ride through Central Park is a cheaper activity ideal for fall weather!

Bike on the Westside Highway

If boats aren't your thing, another beautiful way to see the fall foliage is by taking a bike ride on the Westside Highway. Rent a Citibike and follow the path down the Westside of Manhattan and take in the city in its full fall glory. When Will and I ride our bikes down the path, I love going all the way down to the One World Trade Center and the gorgeous waterfront.

Treat Yourself to a Warm Cookie at Levain Bakery

The fall is all about sweet treats, and if you're looking for a warm and cozy cookie, you have to go to Levain Bakery. Their chocolate chip cookies are thick, gooey, and warm and are sure to warm you up during those cooler fall days.

Pumpkin Arch Photos at Pier 17

The pumpkin arch at Pier 17 was one of my FAVE photo ops from last fall. Pier 17 has a beautiful view of Brooklyn and the Brooklyn Bridge, and the pumpkin arch they put up is perfect for all your fall photo dreams. I recommend going early in the morning because as the day goes on, people flood this area, and a huge line will form.

Get Some Fall Inspired Drinks at The Mean Fiddler, Beetle House, or Magic Hour

The Mean Fiddler is one of my favorite places to take friends because of their drink deals and bottomless brunch on the weekends! Will and I got two of their Halloween drinks this year, and they were delicious. The Magic Hour is another great rooftop bar with some of the best seasonal pop-ups. Last year, the cocktails we ordered came in a blood bag and a flaming pumpkin! Another honorable mention is the Beetle House. While I haven't gone, it's on my fall bucket list! It's a Tim Burton-inspired bar, perfect for a haunting autumn night.

Watch a Spooky Broadway Show

This year, Will and I decided to treat ourselves to a spooky show! We decided to see Little Shop of Horrors, and it was THE perfect show to get into the Halloween spirit. Another fall show recommendation would be Wicked, although it is on the pricier side during this time of year. If musicals aren't your thing, there are also a ton of comedy shows going on during the fall months!


Reminiscing on our fall day has made me SO excited for even more fall days in the city. I can't wait to see what other fun things Will and I get up to, and I hope you have an amazing time in the city when you go on some of these adventures!

 
 
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