New York's cityscape may not be the first destination travelers think of for a fall getaway. However, autumn paints this concrete jungle's abundant green spaces with stunning shades of red, orange and gold, and ushers in a roster of fall activities.
So on your next New York City fall getaway, make the most of the nip in the air, enjoying various outdoor activities such as festivals or walking tours, or take your urban adventures indoors as the arts shift into high gear.
Regardless of your travel style, there's no shortage of fall activities with which to fill your days.
Here are 11 memory-making activities to make your next New York City fall getaway one for the ages.
1. Fall Foliage In Central Park
No fall time New York vacation is complete without a visit to appreciate Central Park's picturesque foliage. Layer up and grab a warm beverage to enjoy as you stroll alongside the Conservatory Water and make your way to Sheep Meadow.
2. Oktoberfest In NYC
Oktoberfest is the quintessential autumnal festival, where you'll experience the best of Germany without leaving the Big Apple. For the whole experience, give polka dancing a try, share massive Bavarian pretzels with your travel tribe and then wash it down with an authentic German beer.
And remember to pace yourself. Oktoberfest includes celebrations throughout the city.
3. New York Comic Con
In early October, comic book fans and pop culture enthusiasts gather in droves to celebrate their fandom at New York Comic Con. The array of celebrity speakers and guest panels make this event wildly popular.
4. Craft Beer Tasting
Autumn's crisp air makes it a perfect time to try some of New York City's flavorful craft beers. Try an all-inclusive tour of the best breweries in Brooklyn and Queens with City Brew Tours for an up-close look at the boroughs' brewing history, which dates back to pre-prohibition.
5. Halloween In Manhattan
To experience the spookier side of New York, plan a trip during Halloween. Whether you decide to watch the annual NYC Village Halloween Parade or enjoy the numerous kid-friendly trick-or-treat locations, there is something for everyone.
6. NYC Walking Ghost Tour
If your idea of fun fall activities involves paranormal activity, celebrate this spooky season on one of the city's popular ghost tours. Depending on the ghost tour you choose, you might wander through the haunted corners of Greenwich Village, explore eerie legends in Washington Square Park, sip cocktails on a “boos and booze” crawl or visit iconic Ghostbusters filming locations.
7. CiderFeast™
"The heat of autumn is different from the heat of summer. One ripens the apples, the other turns them to cider."
Unsurprisingly, the Big Apple is famous for its apples and fresh ciders. Celebrate CiderFeast™ in Brooklyn, enjoying various cider tastings, delicious bites crafted by local artisans and beloved neighborhood favorites for an authentic taste of the Big Apple.
8. Fall Art Shows
New York City's art scene comes alive in the fall. With new exhibitions at the MoMA, Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Brooklyn Museum, you'll want to spend some time touring some of the best artwork in the world.
9. New York City Marathon
Active travelers may consider stepping up to the challenge to compete in the annual New York City Marathon, but you can also enjoy this exciting 26.2-mile race as a spectator. The course runs throughout the city, so there are plenty of opportunities to cheer on the runners.
10. Bike Tour Around NYC
Take in the sights and smells of the fall with a bike tour around New York's five diverse boroughs. If you're feeling adventurous, explore the city on your own by renting a bike.
11. Train Ride To Hudson River Valley
Experience a different side of New York and hop aboard an Amtrak to Poughkeepsie for gorgeous views of gold, orange, and red leaves bursting from the trees. The two-hour trek makes a perfect day trip to escape the buzz of the city.
Plan to spend some time in Poughkeepsie exploring the Walkway Over the Hudson before catching the early evening train back to the city for incredible views of the sun setting over the Hudson River along the way.
Stay: Choose from five Hilton Grand Vacations New York City timeshares, each with unmatched access to the Big Apple's iconic landmarks and things to do.
Read "5 Of The Top Places In New York City Every Traveler Should Visit At Least Once" to discover one Hilton Grand Vacations Member's favorite urban activities.