Visiting New York at any time of the year is a dream come true for most people. But if you really want to make your trip count, you have to experience New York in October, during the fall. Everything seems to embrace the season and make your stay in the city, just better! Let’s explore some adventurous things to do in New York in October.
What Makes New York Special In October?
Fewer crowds. Literally. Just kidding. Don’t take our word. We have curated a list of all the things to do in NYC in October.
Shoulder Season in New York City
October brings so much fun to the alpha city. Do you know about shoulder season? Well, during this time, it’s neither too crowded nor too deserted in New York. For those who prefer to avoid large crowds, October an ideal time to visit. With fewer tourists around, you can visit the must-see attractions like the Empire State Building and The Statue of Liberty at your convenience, ensuring to have a relaxed experience.
Perfect Weather for Exploration
One of the biggest reasons to visit New York City in October is its delightful weather. The mild temperatures are perfect for walking tours, which are by far one of the best things to do in New York for first-timers. You can comfortably explore the vibrant streets and explore the sights and sounds of the city with quite ease. You don’t have blame weather here.
Exciting Events and Activities
October in New York City is bustling with various events that cater to people with diverse backgrounds and interests. The month is packed with activities like the Columbus Day Parade, the New Yorker Festival, and the New York Wine & Food Festival.
If you and your partner are looking for fun activities in NYC for couples, you should attend these events. If you plan to spend the whole month of October in New York, you’ll have the chance to experience the spooky Halloween in New York, which is known for its extravagant parties and celebrations.
21 Things to Do in NYC in October: Fall Adventures and Festive Fun!
1. Fall Foliage
You can visit the prime spots in your surroundings, or travel to a calm yet vibrant New York suburb to capture the stunning fall colors. The landscape turns into a canvas painted with bright yellow, orange, and red hues. Don’t forget your camera to capture these beautiful moments. This is definitely one of the best things to do in New York for free during this season.
2. Central Park
Central Park stretches over 843 acres. It’s one of the five largest and most visited parks in New York City. It draws over 37 million visitors each year. In October, the park transforms into a picturesque destination, filled with warm fall colors, making it the perfect setting if you’re looking for romantic things to do in NYC. Enjoy a gentle stroll through this iconic park and start your day on a high note.
3. Ice Skating
As the holiday season approaches, New York City’s ice skating rinks become a major attraction. The city is home to many indoor and outdoor rinks for all – beginners and experienced – skaters alike. Iconic spots include the Rink at Rockefeller Center, known for its spectacular Christmas tree backdrop, and the Wollman Rink in Central Park, which offers a stunning and breathtaking view of the city skyline. According to Travel + Leisure, these rinks are among the best in the country, not just for their skating experience but also for their quintessential atmosphere during the holidays.
4. Go Pumpkin Picking
Visit a nearby pumpkin patch with friends, family, or your significant other to pick out the perfect pumpkins. This activity is especially fun for kids, who enjoy selecting and taking home their favorite pumpkins for decorating. This is a good and engaging activity, if you’re looking for things to do in NYC with kids.
5. Watch a Rooftop Movie
At the Rooftop Cinema Club in Midtown, you can enjoy watching films under the starry night, usually reserved for summer, till November 12. According to The New York Times, this initiative caters to the growing demand for outdoor activities that attracted the locals during the pandemic. It provides New Yorkers with a chance to capture a scintillating view of the city’s skyline while watching a movie.
6. Enjoy The Start Of The NBA Season
Watching an NBA game live is an experience like no other. This activity is perfect for basketball enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike. With the season kicking off in October, the energy in the arena is unmatched. You can add this event to your list of fun things to do in NYC this weekend.
7. Go For a Hike
New York offers an exciting hiking experience during the fall season. Hiking on a bulging or winding trail is a fantastic way to enjoy the crisp fall air and the surroundings that instantly catch your attention, once you are out hiking. Pack your bags, invite your friends along to enjoy your time. Don’t forget to take your camera. After all, it’s about capturing the essence and beauty of the natural environment.
8. Botanical Garden
The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx County embraces the Halloween spirit. Explore the garden adorned with pumpkins, scarecrows, and whimsical skeletons. Attend the autumn puppet shows, scarecrow-making workshops, and a weekend exhibit of some of the world’s largest pumpkins. The botanical garden is a great place to visit if you’re looking for free things to do in New York. You can enjoy a mini-train tour that allows you to explore various attractions within the garden.
9. Apple Picking
The apple picking season begins in August and peaks in September, but you can also get your hands on tasty apples in early October. Visit an orchard or farm to enjoy this activity. While the apples might not be at their prime, the orchards offer a scenic backdrop for photos, delicious apple cider doughnuts, and fresh apple cider that you can taste or take it to your home. Even if you don’t find the perfect apple, you’ll still enjoy your time out in the sun.
10. Get to Know the Incredible Niagara Falls
While summer is the best season to visit Niagara Falls due to the pleasant weather, October presents a unique opportunity to enjoy this natural wonder at your convenience. The hotel rates are much lower as compared to summers. Hence, you can explore all of the fun things to do near Niagara Falls, New York, and make your trip unforgettable.
11. Bike Ride
Go on a solo bike ride to explore New York neighborhoods. You’ll not regret your decision. If you’re based in the city, you can rent bikes and head to the countryside for a day-long visit. October’s mild weather offers one of the best opportunities for a pleasant bike ride before it gets too cold.
12. The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
Prepare for the most thrilling event of the fall in Hudson Valley. Stroll through the historic grounds of Van Cortlandt Manor to see over 7,000 hand-carved illuminated pumpkins that will leave you awestruck. This year, the event includes a pumpkin Ferris wheel and a circus sideshow with synchronized lights and music festival. This is definitely one of the more weird things to do in NYC, and it’s wroth your money and time.
13. Fall Festival
If you plan to visit New York in October, you can have a chance to explore and participate in local fall festivals with friends and family. Enjoy a day filled with hayrides, pumpkin picking, haunted houses, and local cuisine like caramel apples. Fall festivals are packed with numerous fun activities, and they’re perfect for a day out in October.
14. The Big Sip
If you plan a visit to Bethel Woods, the legendary site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, you can enjoy a major wine and spirits event. The Big Sip offers tastings from over 50 alcohol producers, complemented by live music performances, and a variety of local artisan and food vendors. This is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for things to do in New York at night. This event offers an excellent opportunity to experience local culture and hospitality.
15. Tour A Winery Or Brewery
Contrary to popular belief, visiting a winery or brewery isn’t just a summer activity. Autumn visits are equally delightful. Most brands offer cozy indoor seating to add value to your experience. This might be one of the more unusual things to do in New York in October, but it’s the perfect opportunity to wear your favorite fall attire and savor some excellent local wines and beers with friends.
16. Nyack’s Fall Street Fair
You can join your family and friends at the Nyack Fall Street Fair for a fantastic outing. This event has over 300 vendors showing off their arts and crafts, new retail items, home décor, and gifts. Enjoy a variety of delicious foods from makeshift stalls and local cafes. This is all set to the backdrop of live music at the Main Street gazebo and Tin Pan Ally at the Broadway.
17. Haunted Road Trip
If you’re into thrilling adventures, you can invite your friends to go on a haunted road trip. Explore a nearby haunted town, go on a ghost tour, visit ancient cemeteries, or, if possible, explore historical buildings at night. This Halloween-inspired adventure is one of the crazy things to do in New York.
18. Candlelight Tours
Experience the eerie charm of Schenectady’s Stockade District with a Candlelight Tour. You can choose “Colonial Hauntings” or “Ghostly Victorian” tours. These tours highlight the grim tales from the Colonial and Victorian eras. They’re perfect for those looking for a spine-tingling historical experience. These tours are the best things to do in New York at night.
19. Touch Football
Take advantage of mild October weather by organizing a touch football game with family, friends, and neighbors in a nearby park or a spacious backyard. This activity is highly engaging and keeps you on your toes. After the game, you can enjoy a cup of hot cider or cocoa. This gathering is perfect if you’re looking for things to do in NYC with teens. It will keep your teens engaged and interested.
20. The Oyster Festival
The arrival of fall on Long Island marks the start of the East Coast’s largest waterfront festival, the Oyster Festival. This event attracts over 150,000 visitors and offers a variety of activities that appeal to all ages. It’s definitely a top bucket list thing to do in New York.
You can enjoy live shows, ship tours, artisan crafts, pirate performances, midway rides, and famous oyster eating and shucking contests. The food court offers a feast of oyster delicacies prepared by both volunteers and culinary experts.
21. The Queens County Farm Museum
The Queens County Farm Museum is a place that you must visit while in New York in October. Established in 1697, this 47-acre farm is the city’s oldest agricultural site that is still active and operational. You can experience the charm of farm life here. You can feed sheep, ponies, and goats and enjoy your time. The farm also offers hayrides, and hosts seasonal activities like pumpkin picking and the Amazing Maize Maze, which is a popular corn maze that attracts a large number of tourists, thus promoting agritourism in New York. If you’re looking for hidden things to do in New York, you will love this Amazing Maize Maze.
Conclusion
New York never disappoints its tourists. It’s got everything for everyone. From live music performances to extravagant fairs, from trendy fashion boutiques to lavish food outlets, and from historical monuments to panoramic skyline, New York has got you covered. A visit in the fall season will be an extraordinary experience that you’ll thoroughly enjoy.
Now it’s your turn to check out some of the most adventurous things to do in NYC this October, and plan a fall trip that you will never forget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is New York nice in October?
Yes, October is one of the best times to visit New York City. The weather is typically mild, with average highs in the mid-60s°F (around 18°C). It’s ideal for walking and enjoying outdoor activities. The city is less crowded, the fall foliage adds beautiful color to the parks, and there are many seasonal events like Halloween and film festivals.
Why is New York so expensive in October?
New York can be more expensive in October due to several factors. The pleasant weather attracts many visitors. This leads to a higher demand for hotels and accommodations. October also hosts several popular events and festivals, which can drive up prices. It’s also a peak time for business conferences, which further tightens the availability of accommodations.
How to dress for NYC in October?
Dressing in layers is key for visiting NYC in October. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, while afternoons are often warmer. Consider packing a lightweight jacket, sweaters, and comfortable walking shoes. An umbrella or raincoat is also advisable as October can have occasional rain showers. Don’t forget accessories like scarves to stay cozy and stylish.
Does it snow in New York in October?
Snow in New York in October is quite rare. The city usually experiences its first snowfall in late November or December. October weather is generally mild, with some rainy days. But it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast close to your travel dates, as occasional early cold snaps can occur.
